On any given night in college towns across the country, clubs and downtown areas might be filled with the musical voices of our generation. There is no better use of a Friday or Saturday night in Columbia than crowding into Tin Roof or Breakers for a night of music and fun with friends. Students should support the local music scene because going to shows is enjoyable and furthers career advancement for their peers.
There has never been a more vibrant and exciting time for local music. Here in Columbia, student musicians are leading the way by playing music and doing important work to serve the local community. The college music scene not only provides an avenue for expression, but emphasizes the best parts of campus life. It brings people from all corners of our city together for one shared passion and paves the way for unforgettable memories. Supporting student musicians means a lot more than attending shows, it's an investment in the local community.
USC’s music industry studies major (MIS) provides students with performance opportunities and hands on instruction from professionals in various aspects of the industry. The program teaches students audio engineering, touring management, industry strategy and provides an opportunity to network with other students through school-sponsored ensembles. Beyond music, the program emphasizes the importance of financing and supporting local causes. It is truly the best way to enjoy great songs while giving back to our city.
Student-led organizations are charting a new path forward for local music to be promoted and heard. In collaboration with MIS, the student-run label Greene Street Records (GSR) has begun giving local artists a larger platform as well as helping them jump-start their professional careers. It is necessary to foster an environment where student musicians can grow and improve their craft through instruction and experience. GSR and the MIS program are great examples of USC investing in its students and supporting career advancement.
The Greene Street Records (GSR) stage at the St. Patrick’s Day Festival in Five Points drew large crowds for local student acts. Katie Demartini, an up-and-coming pop artist at USC, was the first artist to be signed by the label and performed at the event. In addition to Demartini, student bands such as the Donovan Twins and Tomorrow's Problem had the opportunity to perform, sell merchandise and showcase their original music at the festival. More than providing students with a chance to see their peers perform, the GSR stage emphasized the camaraderie of our local community all while supporting USC music programs.
Furthermore, the national promotion company Local Mojo has recently started a chapter in South Carolina. Led by students in the music industry studies major, Local Mojo hosts shows and promotes local acts and concerts. They create unique content to promote musicians and their weekly "Bird is the Word," social media segment highlights upcoming local shows. The turnout and support Local Mojo has garnered thus far speaks for itself and embodies how inspiring and important the music scene is to the USC community.
On March 6, Local Mojo held their first event called “Love Is Live.” The event was hosted as a fundraiser for Matthew Williams, a USC student and sound engineer who was recently diagnosed with cancer. Indie act Leo Nino opened the evening with a high-energy set of original music followed by headliners Silk Road. The show provided students with an opportunity to hear local music and support a great cause.
The event not only showcased local acts, but raised over $1300 for Williams' treatment. Events similar to "Love is Live" such as the January 2025 "Bands Not Bans," abortion rights show at New Brookland Tavern goes to show the Columbia music community's dedication to philanthropy and great tunes. These events showcase the positive impacts local musicians in our community can have. Music not only brings people together for the sound, but creates an optimal fundraising opportunity for organizations in Columbia.
Besides philanthropic opportunities, the college music scene provides an avenue for students to have their voices heard and follow their passion. There is no shortage of excellent music being played by student and alumni musicians in Columbia.
“It’s super fun, we get to go out and have a good time and get paid. It’s a brotherhood,” Walkin’ Crooked guitarist Charlie Holt, said.
Whether you’re into metal, indie, folk, rock, pop or jam music, there is truly a band or artist for you here in town. Beyond the rehearsals and performances, the Columbia music scene gives students the opportunity to grow and create lifelong friendships. The community fosters opportunities to grow a business, support classmates and share a love of music.
I have seen first hand how welcoming and tight-knit the community is. The scene is filled with bright young individuals who share the same passion for music while aiming to promote important causes. There is truly no better way to improve our city.
It is an environment filled with hard-working individuals helping each other succeed, learn and grow together. With an abundance of resources and mentors, it is impossible to not further develop your character and musical abilities. I have met my closest friends in Columbia through music and am constantly getting introduced to incredibly hardworking and talented people. The close knit community driven atmosphere is ideal for furthering your musical journey. So the next time you're in Five Points, stop into New Brookland Tavern or Breakers to hear some great tunes and support our community.