In this conversation, John Dominguez, co-founder and chief strategist of Songbird Collective, discusses his extensive background in music and his initiative within the Metaverse aimed at creating immersive and collaborative environments for artists. Songbird Collective has facilitated over 1000 live concerts in the Metaverse, allowing artists to showcase their work, even during the pandemic when live music was largely inaccessible. The initiative has also opened new revenue streams for musicians through NFTs and virtual performances, providing a unique and innovative way to engage with global audiences. 

He recalls the exciting early days of music exploration via the internet in the mid-90s, highlighting moments when he discovered influential music essays and participated in emerging online music communities. One of his notable memories includes attending his first concert, an NWA show in 1989, where he experienced both the thrill and cultural impact of live hip-hop music. He reminisces about various concert experiences, including attending Kings of Leon at Johnny Depp’s Viper Room and the Troubadour in Los Angeles, and describes the unique atmosphere of historical music venues. He also recalls his experience attending the Tibetan Freedom Concert in 1996.

Dominguez also values personal interactions with musicians, sharing stories about his early online exchanges and meetings with avant-garde musicians Nels Cline and Joe Baiza. Despite the modern shift towards digital music consumption, Dominguez advocates for the irreplaceable magic of live performances and encourages music enthusiasts to support local independent shows. In wrapping up, he stresses how vital it is for fans to support smaller live music venues, highlighting how these spaces provide essential platforms for artists and memorable experiences for audiences. Dominguez’s dedication to music culture and innovation through Songbird Collective exemplifies the evolving landscape of live music and virtual experiences.

BANDS: Aerosmith, Beastie Boys, Ben Steller, Creeper Lagoon, Dr. Dre, Fontaine’s DC, Ice Cube, Jet, John Lee Hooker, Killers, Kings of Leon, Mud Honey, New Jack’s Swing, No Doubt, NWA, Oasis, On the Speakers, Ornette Coleman, Pavement, Pixies, Porno for Pyros, Rage Against the Machine, Smashing Pumpkins, Sonic Youth, Stooges, Tribe Called Quest

VENUES: Celebrity Theater, Constellation Room, Castaic Lake, El Rancho Grande, Johnny Depp’s Viper Room, Observatory, Rainbow, Roxy, Salt Shed, Troubadour, Mr. T’s Bowl

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