LINDSEY on the scene

With Lindsey Williams

Tri-state recording artist and live performer presents part three in a series of discussions on the state of the local music scene

When Tommy Ellis, Managing Editor of News 4U, first presented me with the opportunity to write a series about the original music scene in Evansville and the surrounding areas, I had to take a long pause. I have played original and cover music regionally for nearly 30 years. In a way, I consider cover music my day job and recording and writing music my passion. However, as a full-time solo artist for the majority of my career, I had to miss many opportunities to go out and support my brothers and sisters in the biz. Sure, I bought my friends’ CDs and vinyl and streamed their new releases. I shared posts and went to shows once in a while when not performing, but I wasn’t a part of any “scene”. Was there a scene? They say “no man is an island,” but suddenly I felt like

I was placing a collect call from Fiji. (1010-321…Hellooooo?) How could I write about a network of people from which I had inadvertently isolated myself?

I started reaching out to everyone I knew. Not surprisingly, I got wide-ranging responses about who, where and how songwriters and original bands are crafting their material and presenting their blood, sweat and tears in wave form. I didn’t expect, however, the diverse ways our creators share and monetize their art. This area is full of home and pro studios, signed artists, weekend warriors, traveling ensembles, jingle writers, stem producers (a stem is stereo mix of tracks like a complete drum beat or multiple guitar parts for use in further song production), published authors, teachers, directors, and so much more. It’s astonishing how much new music is created in Kentuckiana and Illinois, but this still doesn’t constitute a scene, or does it?

When I think of a music scene, I think of a music row of live performers on a bustling street, open guitar cases for tips with bands, duos and soloists all pushing their voices and instruments to the limit for a little sonic real estate. But those days may be largely gone; the meccas of Nashville and Branson have morphed from grassroots artist development and talent discovery to music-themed restaurants playing “Wagon Wheel” four times an hour. Fair enough. Money must be made and markets will dictate, but the human connection is missing.

What if we created that connection here? There is no lack of space, talent or enthusiasm. As of this writing, I have over a dozen writers on board willing to partner and showcase what they have written. We want to discuss the material, processes and goals in storyteller form, but also, and most importantly, collaborate and share. Venues are already making plans and there is much more to be announced as the pieces come together. We may have more than a series of shows in our future; we may have a movement. Communication is key, so please grab the July edition of News 4U for Part 4 or visit news4u.me to see what the artists themselves are saying about their passion for playing for you.