The local music scene in Minnesota – specifically, Minneapolis and St. Paul – includes a variety of genres, people, and sounds. Many of these artists, who started out in the Twin Cities, have become very successful in their careers, and many who are just starting out serve as an inspiration for anyone who is interested in music.

One Minnesota band whose success has gained them over two hundred and thirty-two thousand monthly listeners is Remo Drive.The band was started by two brothers named Erik and Stephen Paulson in Bloomington, Minneapolis. Since their start, they’ve changed their sound from emo/pop-punk to a mix of pop, indie, and folk-rock in their third album, which came out in 2019 and gained recognition from many different outlets. They’ve gained a lot of success since their start in the early 2010s. They serve as an inspiration for newer bands and youth who are hoping for a start in the music industry.

Something that’s important in music, besides success, is diversity. Singer Speakeazie, a new indie pop artist whose debut album ‘Prohibition Hippie’ was released in 2022, spoke about this subject in an interview with Edward Sylvan, the CEO of Sycamore Entertainment Group.

“I do feel […] that since so many pay attention to and learn from entertainment, it should be a major focus to give voices to all cultures through it,” said Speakeazie. The artist herself is female and bisexual. She said, “I don’t understand what it is like to be another race, sex, or sexuality or the experiences that follow. Having diversity in entertainment allows glimpses into what it is like from an individual(s) that have varying biological traits and cultures.”

The Gully Boys are a female and nonbinary band formed at a Minneapolis Ragstock when singer Kathy Callahan shared her idea with drummer Nadirah McGill. Since then, they’ve gained two more members – Natalie Klemond and Mariah Mercedes – and they’ve released many songs and played multiple shows. Their shows are enjoyable for everyone; full of fun, dance music, headbanging, and good vibes.

Local music is not only important, but it can lead to amazing things. It lifts up all kinds of voices, provides inspiration for many, and is just all-around fun for everyone. Bands like these prove that ideas to do something great can spark anywhere, and becoming involved in the music scene is possible as long as you are dedicated enough to give it the time and effort it requires. So, if you’re willing, take some time out of your day and give these artists a listen.