New Year, New Outlook: Chicago Music Culture One Year Later

It’s crazy to think that only a year ago, it was looking like a promising year for Chicago music culture. The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events labeled 2020 as the “Year of Chicago Music” in late 2019, NBA All-Star weekend in Chicago was amazing, and there were a lot of concerts and festivals planned for the summer. It’s crazy to think that was only a year ago, in-person events were still allowed, and no one was wearing a mask yet. The pandemic emerged in March and it put a severe halt in creative plans, to say the least. It’s been a year since all that has happened and a lot has changed. I sat down with 6D Co-Founder and CEO, Shaunda Brooks-Green, who had some words to say about the changes we had to make during the last year and how we can move forward. 

“This time last year, we were all very hopeful, looking forward to the new decade as a whole and what it might bring, ESPECIALLY working in music and events. A few notable events at the beginning of the year like Classick Studios’ “Kilpatrick House” event with Smino, BET’s “Twenties” launch party, and All Star Weekend made me think 2020 was going to be the best year until the pandemic hit,” she said. 

A new year always brings new goals and resolutions anyways. We all were awaiting a fresh start, especially with the new decade. But alot of our plans came to a halt.

 “We were really forced to sit down, re-evaluate who we are and what we represent in this industry, and restructure how we do things.” 

Sometimes taking a step back is a good thing. Many people took advantage of this time to regroup and restructure their goals, which led to a lot of dope content and projects. What once felt like a major roadblock, actually opened the door for more innovation.

“I’d like to think people have gotten a lot more creative when it comes to releasing new music, projects, and events. It’s not easy with everything being virtual but we’ve made it work this far and continue to find more ways to be innovative in the new year”. 

People have definitely gotten more creative when it comes to releasing new projects, utilizing digital platforms to better their businesses and brands. I know the pandemic has really made me take a look inward to better myself and think outside the box when it comes to executing ideas. 

“Self-improvement is key. You can still be your best self and do the things you love, even with added restrictions for safety. We have learned and utilized new skill sets that can be applicable to anything for years to come, even when outside opens back up.”

Even though it’s been rough, I believe that this year has proven that our determination is unbreakable and forced us to explore different things remotely. We will always look forward to when things get back to normal, but we will definitely be completely different people when they do. 
​
- Written by Zach Fulcher