‘We’re having a lot of fun’: Lincoln bars serve as platform for up-and-coming artists

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Local bars and restaurants are serving more than just food and drinks, they’re serving as launchpads for aspiring artists.

While the entertainment industry showcases new artists all the time, it can be very hard to break in.

But through these venues, artists have a platform to showcase their talent and build up a fanbase.

“We’re really tight, we’re having a lot of fun,” said Anthony Weller, the lead singer of the Head Change Band. “And things seem to be popping off at this point, so we’re going to keep our foot on the gas.”

The manager at Cappy’s Sports Bar on South 48th Street, Terry Schneider, said these events are a win-win, drawing in crowds while giving back to the local music scene.

“There’s only a handful of places in town that have live music and it’s good exposure for them,” he said. “Especially some up-and-coming bands that maybe haven’t played a whole lot of places. And it helps us, it’s good exposure for us.”

Pete Watters, owner of the Zoo Bar, said many big names have gotten their start by playing in local bars.

“Some of them still play here, Josh Hoyer for example, he was on the Voice and he tours around the world and he’s playing festivals,” he said. “His blues band won the National Blues Challenge. I think that he would say the Zoo Bar had a lot to do with it.”

Monte Peck, a member of The Hanyaks Band, said it feels good to have the opportunity to show off his hard work.

“It’s a nice thing to have a stage to share your art on,” he said. “We’re talking about the art and commodity thing. In a place like one of the clubs down here, like the Zoo Bar for example. It’s nice to be able to go give an art show, give an art performance and create something and then showcase it. Show the people what you’ve done.”

And the Head Change Band told Channel 8 although the arts community here is smaller, it has a pretty big impact for musicians.

“It would be nice to maybe have a larger community, but we’re in Lincoln,” Weller said. “And that’s kind of part of it. Anybody that wants to participate, can, and it’s pretty open and free. But the fact that it’s small and tight-knit is one of it’s charms.”

You can find all of the upcoming live music events at the Zoo Bar here.