By Adam Marth, Branch Librarian
Did you know your library has its very own music collection?
KDL Vibes is Kent District Library's local music streaming collection, connecting listeners with West Michigan artists while supporting and celebrating our local music community. Each year, local musicians, music community members and library staff listen to submissions and select approximately 30 artists to be featured in the collection. Selected musicians receive a $250 honorarium and sign a non-exclusive licensing agreement to share their music through KDL Vibes.
We've reached the final installment in our curator spotlight series, introducing the community members who help discover the incredible local talent featured in KDL Vibes.
This week, meet Chelsea Whitaker — photographer, writer, lighting designer and one of West Michigan's most familiar faces behind the scenes of the local music community.
What's your tie to the West Michigan music community?
I've been photographing West Michigan's music community since 2017. It started with photographing a show at The Pyramid Scheme on my own, then grew into working directly with artists before joining Local Spins as both a writer and photographer.
Today, I wear a lot of hats in the local music scene. I work as a stagehand and lighting designer at GLC Live at 20 Monroe, lighting designer at The Pyramid Scheme, photographer and writer for Local Spins and freelance clients, as well as box office staff and photographer for larger venues including Van Andel Arena, DeVos Performance Hall and Acrisure Amphitheater.
You can bring only three physical albums with you on a long trip — no internet, no streaming. Which ones do you choose, and why?
Three Days Grace – One-X
I grew up with this album consistently returning to my rotation. I think I might listen to it more now than I did back then. It's gotten me through some pretty hard times in life.
The Hunna – I'd Rather Die Than Let You In
I just love this record and could listen to it forever. Fun fact: I bought a ticket to see this band in England before I had any travel plans. Now I'm planning to spend three months there!
Paramore – All We Know Is Falling (Deluxe Version)
Hayley Williams has been at the top of my list forever, and this record is a classic. I know it can always be exactly what I need.
What's one of your favorite local music memories?
New Year's Eve at Founders Brewing Co., when The Accidentals and The Crane Wives shared the stage during the ball drop. Absolutely epic.
What's a favorite local spot — music, art or cultural — that you think everyone should know?
The Pyramid Scheme. I think most locals already know how great this place is, but it can still be overlooked when it absolutely shouldn't be. Pinball in the front, live shows in the back? That's the hottest mullet I've ever heard of.
Interested in submitting your music?
West Michigan musicians can submit one representative song to KDL Vibes during the annual submission period, September 1 through October 12. To learn more about the program, submission guidelines and artist FAQs, visit vibes.kdl.org.
A huge thank you to Adrian, Hunter and Chelsea for sharing their stories and for helping make KDL Vibes a true reflection of West Michigan's vibrant music scene. Be sure to explore the collection and discover your next favorite local artist!
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