Supporting Local Talent at C2E2 with Lizzie Baumgartner and Brian Rowe from Emo Social Club
Last weekend, during C2E2, I decided to focus on the local communities that are shaping safe spaces and contributing to neighborhood development. This article delves into the community-building efforts of individuals like Lizzie Baumgartner and Brian Rowe, who are at the forefront of Chicago’s Emo Social Club.
Emo Social Club, spearheaded by Lizzie and Brian, serves as a hub for the local punk, pop punk, emo, and screamo scenes. Known for promoting emerging artists while engaging with established acts, the club engages in a variety of activities, from DJ sets to live streams, YouTube videos, and podcasting, reinforcing the sense of community that originated in the early 2000s underground music scene.
In an interview with Third Coast Review, Lizzie and Brian shed light on their tireless work within the Emo Social Club. Both exhausted but committed to the cause, they elaborated on their experiences at C2E2, marking their first time attending the convention. Despite the novelty of the event, they participated in panels and DJ nights, showcasing their passion for music and community building.
The Emo Social Club, known for its DJ sets that venture into the eclectic hits of the 2000s and 2010s emo, rock, and pop punk genres, extends beyond music curation. The club hosts monthly residencies with Emo Nite LA and airs a weekly podcast on idobi Radio, featuring interviews with both established and up-and-coming artists. The podcast underscores their dedication to fostering a sense of community within Chicago’s music scene.
Their podcast, which delves into emo music and community engagement, highlights their unique approach to content creation. By prioritizing the local music scene and supporting emerging talent, Lizzie and Brian are carving out a niche within the Chicago podcasting landscape. Unlike many podcasts originating from bustling cities like LA and New York, their focus on Chicago artists gives voice to a vibrant, yet often overlooked music scene.
With a keen eye for unearthing hidden gems and shedding light on underappreciated artists, Lizzie and Brian’s work transcends mere nostalgia. Through discussions on reunion tours, scene revival, and overlooked bands, they champion the music that has influenced them over the years. By delving into the history of the music they love, they seek to engage with like-minded individuals and foster a sense of community around shared musical experiences.
As they navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry, Lizzie and Brian remain dedicated to amplifying the voices of overlooked artists and cultivating a vibrant local music scene. Their efforts within the Emo Social Club exemplify a deep-rooted commitment to community building and fostering a sense of belonging within Chicago’s music community.