WHAT MAKES A MUSIC TOWN? 

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Guitarist Dave Hoffman and songstress Raven Cooper on the ‘Loopy for Dave Go the Hat Social gathering’ at Andy’s Cabana. RAY WEST/Keys Weekly

A buddy not too long ago informed me he lives in Key West “as a result of it’s a music city.” However what does that imply? Is it merely a city with a variety of musicians? Perhaps a little bit, but it surely’s far more than that. 

Not too long ago we held a fundraiser/jam for our good buddy Dave Hoffman, a guitarist who wants some assist. Over 30 musicians confirmed up with buddies to play at no cost and assist fill the tip jar with donations for Dave. It was a terrific success. No bickering or ego bruising. Folks shared the stage and their gear with out a second thought. Everybody confirmed respect and kindness as a result of they have been buddies. We’re bonded not solely by our occupation, however by our lives, our ardour and our challenges.

Gamers attend these occasions to let struggling buddies and fellow musicians know they matter, that they’ve worth and that individuals care about them. Too typically, throughout a troublesome time, doubt about our price accompanies the darkness. However figuring out that somebody seen you have been gone, and realizing that your artwork, certainly your mere existence, has had an influence on others, typically gives the motivation to make issues higher. 

The restricted assets of our distant location additionally contributes to the sense of neighborhood that makes this a music city. Some specialised companies are solely obtainable on the mainland, making the price of acquiring them prohibitive, however everyone knows of us who’ve needed to depart our island to satisfy these wants.

Greater than head rely and geography, although, gratitude helps make us a music city. Many people come from much less privileged musical backgrounds with restricted or no formal education. However years of taking part in in bars, golf equipment and backyards whereas touring in vans with 4 guys has taught us what no classes may. And from that comes an appreciation of each alternative and lucky circumstance that finds us. Many people have needed to wrestle for gigs, gone unpaid as a rule or been in bands that by no means bought an opportunity. These experiences assist us worth Key West much more. Dwell music is performed right here from 8 a.m. till at the very least 3 a.m., constantly. There may be at all times any individual being paid to play someplace on this city. Age, intercourse, race, preferences and pronouns don’t matter in case you’re good at what you do — and good to others. For those who’re not a great particular person, this music scene is not going to be good to you. Gamers right here defend the music scene and one another. 

Lastly, there could be no music cities with out music lovers, and this city is stuffed with individuals who recognize dwell music and worth the individuals who play it. So many nice supporters present up each night time to hear and revel in our wealthy tapestry of performers. And loads of them got here out to help Dave the opposite night time. They sat and listened for hours and chipped in to assist nonetheless they might. That’s what makes this a music city. 

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