Preserving the Heart of Colorado's Music Scene: Roots Music Project's Mission to Support Local Artists

Colorado is renowned for its vibrant music scene, boasting an array of iconic venues that host renowned touring performers. However, the rise of algorithms, streaming services, and big ticketing companies has made it increasingly challenging for up-and-coming musicians to find performance opportunities, as smaller venues struggle to stay in business. In the midst of this shifting landscape, Roots Music Project in Boulder stands as a beacon of hope, serving as a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a platform for local artists to thrive.

Empowering the Next Generation of Colorado Musicians

Filling the Void for Mid-Level Venues

While Colorado is home to world-class music venues like Red Rocks and the Boulder Theater, these spaces are often dominated by big-name acts. Roots Music Project aims to bridge the gap, offering a 200-capacity venue that caters to the needs of up-and-coming and professional musicians alike. As Dave Kennedy, the executive director of Roots Music Project, explains, "We have the Major League venues here in Colorado, but when you start going down and you're a musician, even a pro, who's really trying to break through, you need those mid-level venues. That's the void that we fill here."

Fostering a Diverse Music Ecosystem

Roots Music Project's commitment to supporting local artists extends beyond just providing a performance space. As a nonprofit organization, the venue is able to offer a more flexible and inclusive approach to programming. "We focus on all genres," says Kennedy. "The name Roots Music Project doesn't necessarily define the genres. It's more about the feeling that music is rooted to the community. So, we'll even have EDM, spoken word, blues, rock, bluegrass, jam, whatever." This diversity not only reflects the rich tapestry of Colorado's music scene but also creates opportunities for cross-pollination and collaboration among artists from different backgrounds.

Serving as a Nonprofit Booking Agency

In addition to providing a performance space, Roots Music Project is also working to support the broader Colorado music ecosystem by serving as a nonprofit booking agency for other small venues. By leveraging their expertise and connections, the organization aims to help these venues secure talented local artists, ensuring that the entire music community benefits. As Kennedy explains, "We're trying to help the whole ecosystem. We're not trying to compete with other venues. We have our niche, and we like to stick to it and make all boats rise with the tide."

Fostering a Sense of Community

At the heart of Roots Music Project's mission is a deep commitment to fostering a sense of community among local musicians and music lovers. By creating a welcoming and supportive environment, the organization hopes to inspire a new generation of artists to pursue their passions and connect with their audiences. As Kennedy emphasizes, "Please take a little bit of that budget and support your local musicians. They're going to be the next ones on Red Rocks stage, but you'll get to know them personally."

Navigating the Challenges of the Changing Music Landscape

Despite the obstacles posed by the evolving music industry, Roots Music Project remains steadfast in its mission to support local artists. As a nonprofit, the organization is able to leverage grants, city support, and donations to sustain its operations, but Kennedy acknowledges that it's still not an easy path. "It is disheartening for not only musicians who may be hobbyists and trying to become pros, but pros who are really trying to make it on a national level, to make it on this scene," he says.Nonetheless, Roots Music Project's unwavering dedication to nurturing the local music scene in Colorado serves as a shining example of the power of grassroots initiatives to make a meaningful impact. By providing a platform for emerging and established artists alike, the organization is not only preserving the heart of Colorado's music culture but also inspiring a new generation of musicians to follow their dreams and connect with their communities.