Columbus, GA: Music City

What happened to live music?

By Miguel Juarez

I don’t like to romanticize “The Good Old Days” because I firmly believe the world we are building is better every day than what it used to be. If that’s not the case, it is us who are failing.

Just like every generation before us, it is our responsibility to pick up what we were given and run with it as far as we can. I was not born nor raised in Columbus. I was 22 years old when I arrived here after being stationed in Fort Benning. It was 2011, and there was live music every day and at every corner on weekends. Musicians and audiences alike could not get enough of it. We would play until the bars closed then try to find any other place that was open just to keep the music going. It felt like a “Music City,” more so than I had experienced anywhere else. There was a shared love for music – it had little to do with the skills or professionalism of the musicians. The barrier to entry was low. Everyone just seemed to want to go out and have a good time.

I have great news: it’s all coming back. Sure, the pandemic kicked our asses and had us comfortable staying home and away from our beloved communities, but Columbus has completely bounced back artistically and economically. I am seeing more live music and events throughout the city with audiences who are hungry for experience. Creatives from all walks of life are collaborating like never before. I believe Columbus is on the cusp of an artistic revolution, and the Columbus Jazz Society is honored to provide small sparks to grow the flame.

If you are a student and have not applied to the CJS Scholarships for 2025, please go to our website columbusjazzsociety.com and fill out the form. The scholarships will be awarded to (2) High School Students ($750 each) and one (1) College Student ($1,500) during the upcoming Fountain City Jazz Festival on April 12th (Saturday) at the Jordan High School auditorium. All students are encouraged to apply for the scholarship and all schools are invited to perform. Vendors and food trucks are also invited to participate.

If you are a current or previous CJS member or are interested in becoming one, please go to our website as well to renew or sign up. We are thankful for your support for jazz, live music, and the arts in our community. Membership includes free entrance to most of our events (discounts on bigger events such as The Annual CJS Soiree), our CJS musician/artist contact list, and discounts on CJS merchandise.

All application forms are available on our website: columbusjazzsociety.com and questions can be directed to president@columbusjazzsociety.com.