This Little Underground

Look, talented people leave all the time. It sucks, sure. Every time someone valuable departs, I reflect and reappraise our collective net worth. But more and more, I'm resolved not to dwell on those individuals. I pat them on the back, thank them for their influence and wish them well. But never does the primacy of my drive to make things happen here even flicker. I have many citable, firsthand reasons to remain confident in the cause with the talent that's still here.

Excellence is the thing toward which all hungry artistic refugees flock. And invested, sustained and intelligent stewardship is precisely what makes a scene excellent. Want luminaries to stay – or even better, immigrate here? Then make this scene an inspiring, supportive and opportunity-rich place. And the outpost braves here on the front lines – the musicians, bookers, promoters, club owners, concertgoers – are the ones willing us there with what they do each night.

That's why, if you're among them, I look you square in the eye and salute. Most importantly, I stand with you. These are the most formative and pivotal years of this city's cultural development. And until we carve the road, no one can or will follow. So, ready your machetes, because today, we begin anew.

> Email Bao Le-Huu

comments powered by Disqus