Cuyahoga County unveils new Live Music and Entertainment Task Force to support local artists, venues, and fans

CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH – Music lovers, get ready to turn up the volume! Cuyahoga County is proud to announce the launch of Cuyahoga LIVE!, a new live music and entertainment task force dedicated to strengthening the region’s vibrant music scene, supporting local artists and venues, and making Northeast Ohio a premier destination for live performances.

“Our region has a legendary music history, including home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and live music continues to be a driving force in our culture and economy,” said Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne. “Cuyahoga LIVE! is about recognizing that live music isn’t just entertainment; it’s an industry that deserves real support. With this task force, we’re bringing together the best minds in the public and private sectors to help us create a successful and sustainable live music environment.”

Executive Ronayne recently convened a coalition of musicians, venue owners, promoters, educators, and cultural leaders to develop goals, priorities, and strategies that amplify live music’s impact on the local economy, create new performance opportunities, and ensure that the beat goes on for generations to come. “We’re ready to help our artists and venues take center stage,” adds Executive Ronayne.

Live entertainment uplifts our communities by fostering creativity and promoting opportunities for current and future artists. Data released by the Greater Cleveland Music Census showed that over 75% of survey respondents identified the creation of a music commission as a key opportunity for Northeast Ohio. A vibrant live music and entertainment scene stimulates regional economic development, boosts tourism, and strengthens local businesses and venues.

Local music advocates Cindy Barber, Executive Director of Cleveland Rocks: Past, Present & Future, and Sean Watterson, Co-Founder of the Cleveland Independent Venue Association, are helping guide our efforts.

“The live music industry in Northeast Ohio is full of talent, but it needs more resources and coordination to reach its full potential,” said Barber. “This task force is about uniting musicians, venues, and policymakers to make sure we’re doing everything we can to support the people who bring music to life in our community.”

“Cleveland and Cuyahoga County have always been a music town, but we can do more to amplify our efforts whether it’s more funding, better policies, or simply making it easier to put on a great show. Cuyahoga LIVE! will help set the stage for the future,” remarks Watterson.

Cuyahoga Live! will kick things off by forming committees to explore audience development, workforce development, culture & belonging, and artist and industry support.

Let's get ready to rock because live music in Cuyahoga County just got a whole lot louder! Sign up TODAY to stay informed about the Cuyahoga LIVE! Live Music and Entertainment Task Force and upcoming announcements.

View images of the event.