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MPR News with Angela Davis
Brandt Williams and Katie Moritz

Can local music venues keep on rocking through the pandemic?

A woman in a mask stands in an empty bar.
First Avenue owner Dayna Frank stands inside the Turf Club, one of the company's music venues, on July 31.
Evan Frost | MPR News file

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Across the country, music venues are closing, shuttered due to the financial pressures and social distancing requirements of the pandemic.

Some have closed permanently. Many are on the brink. Others have temporarily closed their doors vowing to reopen when it is safe to do so.

As we enter the winter months, the call for federal help is intensifying. Earlier this year, Sen. Amy Klobuchar co-authored a bill to provide emergency relief for music venues. But that bill has stalled along with other pandemic relief funds.

Prince Memorial Street Party nate ryan
DJ Sophia Eris poses outside of First Avenue in Minneapolis.
Nate Ryan | MPR

So what’s next for Minnesota’s local music venues — including the iconic First Avenue? How have they pivoted to endure the pandemic? Guest host and MPR News reporter Brandt Williams talks with two guests with insight into the industry.

Guests:

  • Dayna Frank is the president and CEO of First Avenue.

  • Sophia Eris is a DJ, rapper and co-founder of Auntie’s, a yet-to-be-opened venue in the fundraising stage.

Use the audio player above to listen to the program.

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