Chicago’s constantly evolving DIY community remains an essential component of the city’s overall culture. From underground bands to independent zines, the DIY scene allows young musicians to express themselves creatively in a society that often favors the corporate music world. It bridges the gap between professionalism and creative autonomy, producing an inclusive space for creatives to connect, collaborate, and present their art without losing control of any projects.
Explosive and flourishing, the Chicago DIY scene allows musicians and artists to dodge the mainstream music industry in favor of creating independently. Combining the perky beats of bedroom pop with vulnerable lyrics, Chicago-based “mom rock” band Pinksqueeze highlights the significance of the underground Chicago music scene. Ava—the band’s vocalist and guitarist—says, “The Chicago music scene right now, something really special is happening. It feels big. It’s big … come be a part of this historic time in Chicago music.”
Organizations like the Chicago Independent Venue League contribute to the community’s thriving nature. The CIVL collects funds for over 220 artists and venue workers to advocate for local shows and support Chicago’s creative community. The support doesn’t stop there. Countless social media accounts also exist to amplify awareness of the rapidly blossoming underground music scene.
DePaul student Charlotte Waters aims to empower the DIY community, stating that the purpose of Chicago’s scene is to “give people the space to create art, create music, and connect with people who love the same things.” Waters grew up participating in the Rhode Island DIY scene, but she recently relocated to Chicago. Now, she posts photos of Chicago-based basement shows on an Instagram account called “Pyro Magazine.” She is in the process of building a website for the account, which focuses on highlighting underground communities.
Music venues like Metro and Thalia Hall also support the local Chicago scene, but even more discreet venues exist for the sole purpose of encouraging a Do-It-Yourself mentality. Bookclub Chicago is one of several DIY spaces in the city that promotes an independent approach to the music industry. In 2019, owners Cam Stacey and TYG began throwing shows under the collective moniker “Reset.” After the COVID outbreak and losing their original venue, they grabbed a new venue now known as Bookclub.
The venue relies 100% on word-of-mouth and people coming to shows. TYG emphasizes the benefit of this model: “We have naturally attracted artists who believe in us and believe in the space.” Bookclub’s address can be obtained by directly messaging their Instagram account. Local venues like The Garden, Bricktown, and Club Rectum follow the same format to protect themselves against cops. Though discreet, these shows are more accessible than they appear—if you know where to look.
Anyone who appreciates music and wishes to participate in the scene can easily do so. Waters notes that the underground music scene in Chicago “is there for anyone who enjoys art or music.” The notion that the DIY scene only exists for “insiders” is ubiquitous, yet entirely false. As Bookclub’s co-owner Cam Stacey states, “Anyone in town who wants to come to a show and not be a predator or a creep. That's our target.” The DIY community values inclusivity, acceptance, and collaboration above all else.
The underground Chicago music scene welcomed upcoming indie rock band Neptune’s Core with open arms as they first found their footing. According to Neptune Core’s lead vocalist and guitarist Sophie, “The Chicago scene is just so accepting … there’s always so much love and inspiration flowing through it.” The band’s fuzzy, shoegaze-infused sound excels in Chicago’s DIY music scene. What began as a creative outlet and fun hobby evolved into a dream career for the high schoolers.
The band also points out the collaborative nature of Chicago’s DIY community. Sophie says, “You can gain a lot from the people themselves and the music they create. I've yet to meet a single negative person throughout the entire music scene.” Pinksqueeze feels similarly comforted by the Chicago music community. As Ava remarks, “I know it might feel intimidating to go see local bands or go to these smaller venues, but the Chicago scene is truly so incredibly nice and supportive. You will be warmly welcomed.”
Underground venues work diligently to ensure that DIY spaces stay safe and comfortable for everyone. Bookclub primarily focuses on empowering artists, and according to TYG, the duo “takes the space’s safety and vibe very seriously, keeping an eye on everyone during the show and taking note of anyone who threatens that vibe.” By monitoring shows, requiring vaccinations, and keeping the venue’s location a secret, the venue protects this vibe.
Zines also play a vital role in the general DIY culture in Chicago. Spots like Quimby’s and Alleycat Comics sell independent zines, while events like the Chicago Zine Fest exist to represent zine culture and amplify minority voices. DePaul student Eli Schmitt has his own zine titled “Unresolved” that aims to help define the Chicago DIY scene. These zines often work with local shows and bands to highlight their content.
Every major city has a unique underground culture, and they all contribute to the music industry as a whole. DIY culture prevents musicians and artists from having to conform to mainstream culture, providing a space that encourages creative freedom and destroys the concept that artists need big labels to succeed. People in the community connect with one another through a shared passion for music, art, and independent thinking. With countless local venues, parking lot shows, and music zines, Chicago’s DIY community will continue thriving each and every sleepless night.
Here's where you can get involved in the Chicago DIY scene.
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