What's Happening?
Side Door, a concert booking platform founded by Dan Mangan and Laura Simpson, is closing after eight years of operation. The platform has facilitated over 3,300 shows and paid nearly $2 million to artists
since its inception in 2017. Despite its success in promoting alternative music, the founders have decided to shut down due to challenges in competing within the industry, particularly when their motives are not entirely capitalistic. Mangan, who remains active as a recording and performing artist, hints at pursuing other entrepreneurial ventures.
Why It's Important?
The closure of Side Door marks a significant shift in the alternative music scene, particularly for artists who relied on the platform to book intimate and unconventional venues. This development highlights the ongoing challenges faced by artists in securing performance spaces, as traditional venues become increasingly scarce. The shutdown may lead to fewer opportunities for emerging artists to connect with audiences in unique settings, potentially impacting the diversity and accessibility of live music experiences.
What's Next?
With Side Door's closure, artists and music promoters may need to explore new avenues for booking performances, such as leveraging social media platforms or collaborating with local businesses to host shows. Mangan's hint at other entrepreneurial ventures suggests potential innovations in the music industry that could address the current challenges in venue availability. Stakeholders in the music community may also advocate for policies that support the creation and sustainability of alternative performance spaces.
