Local music is a wonderful thing to be involved with. Whether the community consists of just five artists and a venue or an entire region dedicated to supporting independent artists, you will experience music with people who genuinely respect and care about the art. Personally, between being an audience member and/or being a performer, I've been involved in local music for six years. Today, "local scenes" all across the U.S. and even the world are thriving in ways never thought possible.

Shortly after I turned 21, I started being presented with opportunities to play shows at professional venues, like the Trocadero. I've had my ups and my downs, and obviously have a long way to go, but it's a wonderful feeling to have people enjoy something you create. Now more than ever, I realize the importance of an audience and just how much their support means. I recently played a sold-out show, and the love the artists felt was incredible; positive energy was everywhere.

However, while support is incredible in many places, there are still quite a few areas that don't have enough. Many artists, performers, and friends I've talked to seem to agree with me that the biggest challenge in giving local music momentum is getting people to shows. Too many times, potential audience members "flake out" or just forget about it at the last minute. Sadly, people don't have as much free time in today's world, so our surroundings certainly don't make it easier.

If you've never been involved with local music before, now is the perfect time to do so, and the best way to support local music is to show up! There is no greater feeling than a packed, sold out venue on a Friday evening, while listening to incredible musicians perform their craft. There's almost always food and alcohol as well, so you can live it up too. The best part, many shows don't have that large of a cover charge, some are even free.

If you have a friend out there who's involved in local music, ask them when their next show is and do everything you can to try and attend. I say this with love, but please don't be a flaker. When you promise to go to a show, your support is a commitment and is essential so the community thrives. There are so many great venues out there and just about every genre imaginable!

So, perhaps in the near future, plan a night at a music club to see up and coming acts, and I'll promise you'll have a wonderful time! Art is probably more important than ever in today's world, and simply showing up to one gig means the world to artists everywhere.