Things haven't always been this good. Molly Maher, a manager at The Podium and an acoustic musician who's been hip to the Dinkytown scene for 12 years, remembers a five-year period from 1993 to 1998 when live music was absent from virtually every business in the area. Changes in zoning laws for the entire city have paved the way for the reemergence of live music venues. Previously, many of the businesses were prohibited from receiving licenses because of parking restrictions. Shaan Sharma, an acoustic musician who plays at the Borealis Cafe and the Library, relishes the college atmosphere.
Students are more personal when it comes to music.
They're much more active. At other venues people don't get personal. It's important for musicians to be motivated by their audience. The venue will feature all styles of music, from hip-hop to punk and rock. We're looking for people who have their stuff together.