Last week saw the end of the Strutt’s run in their location at the corner of Academy and W. Michigan. While there are plans in the works for relocation, the future of shows in the new location seems to remain up in the air. What this means, at least for the moment, is that we’ve once again lost an important music venue in our city.

I’m sad to see it go, as I know many are. I’ve had the pleasure of seeing a number of national acts right here in town, only two measly blocks from my house, that I wouldn’t have otherwise. I’ve attended countless performances by my good friends alongside touring acts from all over the country and beyond. In addition, the Strutt had personally become my favorite local venue to play.

As is the nature of things, spots where people can put on shows come and go, and generally all too quickly. The lifespan of a venue – be it in a basement, bar, or art space – is often a few years at best. Any establishment that hosts live music of this nature, on the kind of intimate scale that we appreciate, is going to be a constant struggle to maintain. But one thing will always remain and will be paramount to its success: the spirit of real community.

Without it, the Strutt would have been just a building, just a business. But hopefully everyone reading this was lucky enough to experience the kinds of things I have over the last few years: moments of honest joy, moments that moved me, that inspired me. Yes, it has less to do with the place itself or the money that goes into it than it does with the musicians that are a part of it, the friends that share in it with you, the people that make it happen. These things are universals in our little subculture world and are a testament to the power that music has in our lives, and the Strutt played a role in bringing this into our most excellent city.

While a venue may not be the most sustainable venture and will all too often meet a premature end, this spirit must continue to be nurtured. Thankfully, at present there is a multitude of places to see live music here in Kalamazoo and for us to gather together, and if you’re reading this article that much should be clear. While there were many aspects of the Strutt that were unique and beneficial, hopefully those can be recaptured in a new space sometime in the near future. Regardless, Kalamazoo’s music culture continues to thrive and will do so as long as we all stay involved.