Recent events in downtown St. Louis, like the shooting at Fubar  on August 7, many robberies, including that of the Austin Jones Pitch Imperfect Tour at The Firebird on September 16 and other dangerous events have left many wondering where the current St. Louis music scene fits into the volatile climate of the city. Many wonder if it is going to continue to be possible to safely play and attend music events in the city, especially downtown.

But the majority of artists and fans of the scene know that as long as actions are, the music scene can thrive in spite of the actions of a few criminals in the area. “We can’t let fear get in the way of living our lives,” said Dylan Becker of local rock band Decedy,  “Make sure everything is locked up and try not to walk around alone.”

These events are not specific to our area either. “Violence is everywhere if you are in the wrong place at the wrong time” said Austin Buhl of Silence The Witness.

There is still a lot of faith in the rapidly growing music community here in STL. The thriving metal community is hopeful in spite of the violence. “I think Saint Louis will be the center of metal’s revival; I would bet everything I have on it. This scene is alive and well,” said Brendan Luetkenthaus of Silence The Witness.

That is not to say that the recent events have not changed anything because they certainly have. “Crime has changed the mindset of some around town,” said Arkangela member Stacey Smyre “I think it just forces the people in St. Louis bands to be more careful with who they surround themselves with and rethink the measures they take to defend their assets.”

So maybe recent crime has reminded people to be careful, but it has not made people fearful. The love for the music scene is still here; it still has faith in it. People are all investing their lives into it. There is still pride in the St. Louis music scene.