A Critical Moment for a Beloved Brooklyn Venue
On May 2nd and 3rd, The Music Matters will present a two-night indie music showcase at Our Wicked Lady (OWL)in Bushwick. What began as a grassroots blog has evolved into a platform dedicated to elevating New York City’s emerging music talent.
The showcase also arrives at a turning point. OWL, one of the few remaining independently run music venues in Brooklyn, is under threat of closure. The New York Post recently reported on the venue’s financial challenges, making this event about more than just music. but also about protecting spaces for culture.
Act II
The second night of the showcase, May 3rd, will feature a CBGB-style audition night hosted by The Music Mattersfounder Marc Seligman. Performers will take the stage in a format reminiscent of the city’s early punk and alt-rock days.
Adding to the night’s impact is a documentary-style “confessional booth,” where attendees can share personal reflections on music, community, and what these spaces mean to them. The footage will help shape a forthcoming full-length film about the indie scene.
A Platform for Artists
Indie stages like OWL have always been the kind of places where raw talent and bold ideas get their start. From the early punk scene at CBGB to Seattle’s grunge movement, bands like Bam Bam helped shape sounds that the mainstream only caught up to later. These moments weren’t created in boardrooms. They happened in backrooms, basements, and venues that took risks on new voices.
The Music Matters continues in that tradition. It’s a platform focused on access and authenticity, giving emerging artists opportunities that streaming platforms can’t replicate. One of this year’s standout acts, Chaser Eight, has already earned regional awards, a headlining slot at Mohegan Sun, and shows alongside national acts like Panic! at the Disco.
Preserving venues like OWL means giving the next wave of artists a real chance to be heard.
Protecting a Pipeline for Independent Music
What’s at stake here is larger than one venue or one event. Without platforms like The Music Matters and venues like OWL, it becomes harder for local scenes to stay vibrant, and harder for emerging artists to get the experience and exposure they need.
Step out, enjoy the music, support artists you love. Get the full lineup and details here.
Author
Roderick Thomas is an NYC based writer filmmaker
