Cover photo by Ginger Wesson
Four years ago, I found music festivals and the music festival community at a critical time in my life. I had just left an extremely toxic, emotionally abusive relationship. I barely had any self-worth, suffered from severe depression, and was experiencing anxiety attacks. At the time, I had little to no meaning in my life, and I certainly didn’t have any inspirations that surrounded me. Then, I found Bonnaroo.
I remember my first Bonnaroo four years ago so clearly. The sense of freedom I felt brought tears to my eyes every single day of the festival. I met some of the kindest people, was given gifts from strangers, and was completely immersed in art and creativity. These are the kinds of feelings that changed my life forever. Bonnaroo showed me the glimpse of light and love I so deeply longed for after feeling worthless for so many months.
That day I made a promise to myself that I will always try my best to show others love. I also made the promise that I would begin to explore my creativity. This was all the beginning of a major life shift for me. Shortly after, I changed my degree track to Event Management. I knew I needed to give back to a community that had given me my life back. That may sound dramatic, but let me tell you I was doing pretty rough before being welcomed with open arms into the music festival community.
I’m sure we all probably have a similar story or moment we remember this community leaving its beautiful mark on our hearts. In this season of giving, I feel compelled to recognize and give back to many parts of this community. Below is a list of music-related items to support.
Support and Follow Local Artists
Although he isn’t a local to Orlando, Ravenscoon is one of my top favorite artists! He has some amazing singles and a bunch of mixes I usually have on repeat. One of the best ways to support a local artist is through supporting and sharing their art. Follow Ravenscoon on Soundcloud! Listen to my favorite mix below.
Share Newly Released Music
As an artist, it can be a challenge to spread new music. There are many independent artists who aren’t signed to a big label which makes it even more difficult to reach fans and potential fans. Again, one of the best ways to support artists is through sharing their art and creations! Give back to artists you love by sharing new music when it’s released. One of my favorite new releases is GRiZ’s Bangers 4. Listen here on Spotify!
Support and Follow Local Promotion Companies
Local promotion companies are the people who bring magic to a city near you! Alliance Nightlife and Events is an Orlando-based company that books multiple shows throughout Florida. They have an extensive list of artists they have brought to Florida. In addition, they create immersive environments at shows and it is an experience you don’t want to miss. Follow Alliance on Instagram and like the Facebook page to keep up to date with new shows!
Donate to an Artists’ Foundation
One of my favorite things to see is when an artist creates or supports non-profits! What better way to spread love than giving back constantly. Bassnectar has a nonprofit project, Be Interactive, that was launched over a year and a half ago. Be Interactive supports many causes such as funding grants, launching free climate change courses for high schools, and providing funds for free therapy to 2,000 people to name a few. Like Be Interactive on Facebook and, if you’re feeling extra generous, donate to their cause!
Invite Friends to Like Your Favorite Festival Blog
Just like all small businesses and local artists, festival blogs love and appreciate all of the support. It is through the same process of liking, sharing, and supporting that allows all of these companies and artists the ability to keep providing content and experiences you love! If you love reading articles from Festival Squad, tell your friends and invite them to like our Facebook page so they can stay up to date on all of our new articles!
The Gift That Keeps on Giving
Through support and love of the community, the music festival culture and community can continue to grow, evolve, and thrive! Sprinkle some extra love this holiday season on platforms that are important to you, it’s free.
The post Give Thanks to the Music Community That Shaped You appeared first on Festival Squad.
