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Kansas City's UNESCO City of Music: Why It’s Time to Amplify Our Jazz Scene

Update The Heartbeat of Kansas City: A City of Music Kansas City is often thought of as a city of fountains; it’s high time for that image to evolve into one of a city well-versed in music, especially jazz. According to local musician and community advocate Kemet Coleman, the city’s identity is due for a rebranding. Although Kansas City has deep jazz roots and the prestigious title of a UNESCO City of Music since 2017, the support and infrastructure needed to flourish as a music hub are still lacking. Historic Musical Heritage and Cultural Importance At the heart of KC's musical legacy is the historic 18th and Vine District, which has been the launching pad for musical legends like Count Basie and Charlie Parker. With such a rich historical significance, the potential for Kansas City to harness its jazz heritage as a cultural and economic driver is palpable. In these culturally vibrant areas, music isn’t merely an art form; it serves as a catalyst for social connection and community development. Alongside the UNESCO designation, Kansas City has seen initiatives like Creative City KC Inc. leading efforts to enhance this legacy. Indeed, Kansas City, known for hosting over 200 music events each year, is brimming with opportunities. Yet, the question remains: How can the city capitalize on its inherent assets to elevate its music scene to a level seen in cities like Nashville or New Orleans? Call for Investment and Community Support Musicians and advocates are pushing for the city to invest in the infrastructure that supports the creative economy. Much like New Orleans, which is reportedly considering allocating $25 million toward its music strategy, Kansas City is aiming for government backing to implement its own music initiatives. These aspirations include creating a Kansas City Office of Music, enhancing public school music education, and establishing a lively annual city-wide music week. Such projects could resonate deeply within the community, light the spark for local artists, and entice visitors seeking the next music hotspot. Counterarguments: The State of the Music Industry Despite the enthusiasm, some local artists are more skeptical, claiming Kansas City has a fractured landscape of artists doing bar gigs rather than a cohesive music industry. Coleman himself pointed out this gap, asserting that significant city support is essential for forging a genuine music economy in Kansas City. The establishment of the Kansas City Office of Music could be the first step toward shifting perceptions and building a vibrant creative industry. Future Predictions: A Thriving Music Scene As Kansas City continues to grapple with economic challenges, the role of music in urban revitalization cannot be understated. The city’s council has already allocated funding to support the UNESCO membership and its initiatives, which paves the way for sustainable development plans centered on music. Should these initiatives succeed, Kansas City could not only fortify its music scene but also attract visitors, bolster local businesses, and become a genuine player in the global music industry. Connecting Community with Local Culture Musicians and stakeholders in Kansas City foster a rich cultural environment through collaborative events, unique personal stories, and community engagement. People are coming together not just to create music, but to celebrate their heritage and support local businesses, from restaurants to cafes that thrive on their robust music scene. Local businesses have a vital role in cultivating this atmosphere. By collaborating with artists and hosting events, they can help foster an ecosystem that encourages people to gather and enjoy music together. This synergy will create a flourishing environment for the arts and lead to heightened connection and prosperity, enhancing Kansas City’s identity as a hub not just for fountains but for musical richness as well. What’s Next for Kansas City? As local musicians and advocates push for a unified music strategy, they urge not only city support but also active participation from residents, businesses, and other stakeholders. Writers, performers, and everyday citizens have a part to play in this cultural renaissance, be it through storytelling, sharing knowledge, or simply enjoying performances at local venues. Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com.