Blue Couch Collective

Turning Street Corners into Stages: What's the Hidden Value of Busking


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SIDE A | TRACK 12 - A tale as old as time: The struggling musician playing on the sidewalk — the busker. But what if turning street corners into stages has a plethora of unexpected benefits for aspiring musicians?

 

AROUND THE COUCH: As always, Ryan & Will start by checking in on each others’ BCCs (Brand, Creation, Consumption) to hold each other accountable in their artist journeys. They first discuss building out the Blue Couch Collective brand kit.


Then, Will highlights his “Music Business Minute” video series, which covers a book he picked up to become better versed on the industry. Plus, Blue Couch Collective open mics are soaring in Columbus with the recent addition of live audio recordings + photographers and videographers.


Finally, Ryan talks booking out shows for 2026 and, in an ode to the great Jimmy V, what things he’s been consuming have allowed him to laugh, think, and cry each day.

 


BEHIND THE GRIND: Ryan & Will explore the transformative power of busking, sharing personal stories and insights into this unique form of performance. It’s more than just playing music in public; it’s an opportunity to connect with people in an authentic way, hone your craft, and test new material all in a low-stakes environment.


The duo delves into the cultural nuances of busking in different parts of the world, including how U.S. cities present more challenges compared to many major cities in Europe, where street performing is ingrained in culture and seamlessly integrated into city design.


Plus, what unexpected value can an evening out busking bring? From an old couple dropping a $20 bill in his case to a young pair asking him to play at their wedding, Ryan has seen several doors open as a result of simply putting himself out there and embracing the unknown.



So, what the busk?! Whether you're a musician looking to expand your horizons or are simply curious about the world of busking, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. As Ryan and Will remind us, creativity knows no bounds, and sometimes the best stages are the ones we create ourselves.



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Blue Couch CollectiveBy Blue Couch Collective