Everett Music Initiative Doubles Down for 2021
Header image by: Tyler McKee
Live events are more uncertain than ever these days while we all navigate this unprecedented season of Covid.
Yet a little glimmer of light has appeared on the shores of Everett - is that rock n’ roll we hear? Country? Hip-hop?
Hark! It’s Everett Music Initiative (EMI) dancing glimmers of hope on the horizon.
And we’re not even talking about their fresh new website.
Or their new fiscal partnership with the Snohomish County Music Project.
No, the most exciting news amidst EMI’s sea of recent developments is their plans for 2021 events.
I caught up with EMI founder Ryan Crowther on the phone recently. “No one has really announced what they’re doing this year for events. Everyone’s uncertain. Sure, things will look different, but we’re moving forward and planning events this year,” Crowther shared.
Crowther acknowledged events will likely be smaller this year, such as backyard and outdoor shows. Locations that will allow space for safe distancing.
Event-based organizations, such as EMI, have been among those hit the hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic. So it’s encouraging to see EMI adapting in order to continue contributing their vibrant spirit to the Everett community that we all know and love them for.
“Doing smaller shows may not be the most exciting,” Crowther shared, “but I think we’re all ready to get out of the house and enjoy some fun and safe local events.”
EMI has now been producing events in Everett for eight years. Their impact from both a cultural and economic perspective is remarkable.
Since its inception, EMI has been primarily funded through ticket sales and events. Their new partnership with Snohomish County Music Project, called a “fiscal sponsorship,” is allowing new opportunities that include being able to receive grants and accepting tax-deductible donations.
The partnership has also allowed EMI to launch their new ‘Founding Members’ program. The program has various tiers for financial contributions and members will score perks for their support.
Funding is never a fun topic when you’re trying to throw a good rockin’ party, but is obviously a crucial element to sustainability.
We’re thankful to see EMI doubling down to help keep Everett rocking twice as hard.
Go check out EMI’s fresh new website. Throw ‘em some support. Or at the very least, get stoked to enjoy some real-live shows this Summer and from the looks of it, for many years to come.
Garret is the co-founder + CEO of Live in Everett. He’s also journeying toward wholeness at GarretHunt.com.