Live music isn’t just entertainment in Orlando; it’s a lifestyle. Small venues feel more energizing than large stadiums. Venues like the Social open their doors to dozens of locals who love nothing more than grabbing a drink and watching a local band perform.
As an alumnus of the University of Central Florida, I have been honored to call Orlando my home for the last four years. The City Beautiful has much to offer: theme parks, community events, and pockets of peaceful places to eat and shop. One of Orlando’s most notable aspects, however, is the deep web of local musicians and artists who perform at venues across the city and beyond.
I’ve had the privilege of speaking with artists from the Orlando area, such as the wonderful Hunter Azme from the well-known local band Holly Pocket, as well as local talent Jayson Andrews, and most recently, the immensely creative Lex Dixon, stage name killinginthekitchen.
Over the last few years, artists like this have let me catch a glimpse of the positivity and connectedness of the Orlando scene. Artists show up for each other at shows, and promote each other’s work on social media. Although the music industry is highly competitive and comparison-driven, the Orlando area prioritizes supporting other artists. Azme herself has said it is a “tight-knit, supportive community of artists,” and that is clear even from the audience.
Outside of the local music scene, Orlando itself practically calls for inhabitants to enjoy themselves. Even short drives to campus or long rides to Winter Park call for full enjoyment of music and celebrating the moment. Bars like Alfie’s on Mills center on music as an art form. Alfie’s is a retro-themed, record-spinning spot with a crowd of locals who come out to sample nightlife and enjoy classic tracks. Other locations like Dr. Drips host local DJ events, and coffee shops like Stardust and Austin’s Coffee almost always host events supporting local music and art.
Venues like My Sister’s House and the Social host touring indie bands like Inner Wave and local artists like the aforementioned Holly Pocket. UCF-centered events like Arboretum Unplugged also let local artists perform for UCF students, who gather on towels in the dark to hear live local music.
Artists are always performing, and journalists are always covering shows or interviewing artists. One aspect of my career I hold dear is this rich community of genuine, talented people ready to share their artistic visions with the city.
I am blessed to have called Orlando my home, and I pay homage to the artists who make up the wonderful creative scene of my college years. Orlando may be known for theme parks and tourism, but living in this city for four years has painted an utterly unique picture of community within the live arts that will never die.
