Music + Place

Abstract

This thesis investigation delved into the intricate cultural fabric of live music, examining how live music venues of diverse types contribute to placemaking to varying degrees among participants. Placemaking refers to the transformation of public spaces to mirror the culture and identities of engaged communities. The bond between locationand live music stems from necessity, as music, particularly from fringe or underground circles, embodies resistance to external controls, championing rebellious and anti-capitalist ideals.Nevertheless, the choice of venue for musical events generates cultural and social dynamics, creating positive shifts and preserving cultural heritage in communities. Focusing on the subset of live music venues, this research explores the vibrant underground music scene. These spaces are treated in nomadic fashions, where artists enter and move to the next node, creating an urban network of multiple venues which work in accordance with the local scene. This underground network contributes to the broader concept of ‘Music Cities,’ enhancing urban landscapes internationally and offering substantial cultural and social benefits. This thesis investigation aimed to capture the purpose live music has in adopting and re-definingplace identity for cultural production within local scenes. Enabling artists with an event toolkit can support participation within local scenes and strengthens the network of live musicplaces, especially in Detroit, where artists and audience can actively engage in generating new cultures and identities within Detroit’s urban centers.