For decades, Ann Arbor was a beacon for musicians and artists, a place where creativity thrived, and independent music found a welcoming home. From historic venues like The Ark to the legendary Ann Arbor Blues Festival, the city drew artists from all over the world. Over the years as Ann Arbor’s economic landscape shifts—with rising costs, increased corporate influence, and diminishing support for grassroots arts—the creative community has been seeking new ground in our area.