Nowadays, young people have a new appreciation for collaborating in creative realms. Specifically in music, community attains status as the ‘key-word’ to cultivate common creative ground in various powerful ways, opening opportunities to explore musical performance and transmission not just as a cool symbol of social grouping, but as an important part of expression that helps shape and sustain vigorous collectivities and, probably, a bright and unitive future for music.
“For anyone looking to dive into the world of events or any projects, getting involved in a collective could really provide that sense of connection and hands-on learning!”, says Maëlys Dubois, Development manager at LieU’topiE, a collective that fosters both a sense of community and a space for cultural exploration in Clermont-Ferrand, France. It offers a rich cultural programme of debates, concerts, exhibitions, meetings, games evenings, while also providing a wide range of services for students.
“LieU’topie has grown and adapted over the years, especially with the challenges of the pandemic. The core of our mission —supporting students and addressing issues of poverty and precariousness—remains central, and we have incorporated these core standards into the cultural events we organize. In March, there are two important events: The start of Europavox Campus (the first European music springboard for students) and Femmes de Mars. It’s an initiative, hosted at LieU’topie since its creation in 2018, and set up with anti-discrimination principles. We celebrate both the local music scene and the powerful social causes we’re championing”.
The collective’s focus on education is particularly important, and it’s refreshing to hear that their work is rooted in respect and inclusion.
“Being part of multiple associations has given me a perspective on how different organizations operate and collaborate, especially when it comes to organizing live music events. The combination of technical work, communication, and event programming is a great way to not only learn new skills but also build a sense of shared purpose with others”, says Maëlys smiling.
Clermont-Ferrand is one of the places where its musical ecosystem is brimmed with talented squads that stick together and create wonders, nurturing a culture of connectedness that runs throughout the veins of the city.
“OSBLC is an association led by four strong and fierce women based in Clermont-Ferrand, who navigate unemployment or precarious work situations. We would match our interest in music, such as rap, electro, reggaeton, and musical aesthetics where women and LGBTQIA+ people are hard to find”, says Anaïs Dedit, co-founder of the association.
OSBLC Production does an incredible work, combining the power of art and dialogue to tackle essential issues such as sexism, violence and racism. The focus on intersectionality is particularly important, as it recognizes that individuals experience oppression through overlapping systems of privilege and discrimination. Jam sessions, cultural programming, and talks all seem like excellent ways to spark conversations, build solidarity, and raise awareness around these crucial topics.
Too often, emerging artists from marginalized groups face obstacles just getting their foot in the door, so OSBLC provides opportunities that wouldn’t otherwise exist. “We are proud to produce the local rapper Anzu. Her song “Reine de Coeur” is a dismayed look at today’s world. From Mama Festival to Bars en Trans, we supported her and beatmaker CoeurBalance to raise awareness about mental health, which has greatly affected Gen Z. And now, we are excited to support the release of her first EP “Danse Macabre” !”, says Anaïs. The “Collusiiion” events at the cultural center Lieu-Dit have created a space for conversation, and the line-up they’ve curated—from Creamy G and Yanka to local talents like ShaddyBloo and Lizoto—really speaks to their commitment to diversity. They even created a special venue dedicated to hyperpop and brought YapasMIEux, a collective of citizens standing up for unaccompanied minors, making the event even more special.
But why are music collectives rising? Someone may say it’s a kind of strategy, or the evolving demands of music industry, but Anaïs Dedit gives a different interpretation:
“I think it was in the aftermath of the pandemic and amidst ongoing economic challenges, when people started losing purchasing power. And now we build a new way of ‘consuming’ culture. People need to be part of the experience of an event, and they need to listen about engagement. I really resonate with what Thomas Legon said about “functional” music—how music can be a tool for connection rather than just for artistic perfection. In our events, friends and family come to help us to ticketing, they may bartend for a night, and our parents may create the best vegetarian catering ever, without knowing anything about music !”.
OSBLC is deeply embedded in the vibrant, collaborative spirit of Clermont-Ferrand’s cultural scene. “Clermont-Ferrand is a place where you can dream anything! With OSBLC, we experienced many rich collaborations, for example with Clermont Afro’Fest (African & Afro-descendant culture), Sironastra (feminism, burlesque performances), Contrpoint (electronic music collective), La Logique du Sens (feminist music collective), and others such as Somme Toute, La Tolerie, Zaoum. The programming we did for the first day of DarkLab, a music festival created by Biscuit Production & DarkLab, in the margins of The International Short Film Festival of Clermont-Ferrand was great ! Our collaboration with ASM (Association des Superviseurs Musicaux) and Risque Nul, was a fulfilling exercise in bringing together over 55 associations, each with its own perspective, and channeling that collective power into a music event ”, she says.
The need for more financial support and trust in these grassroots, DIY initiatives is critical—creativity and the ability to rally people together shouldn’t come at the expense of long-term sustainability.Anaïs Dedit gives a powerful message: “Supporting local initiatives and listening to more women—especially those from marginalized groups—is essential for shifting the cultural landscape. By amplifying their experiences, whether through playlists, performances, or just giving them space in local venues, we are helping to create a more inclusive music scene”.
It’s fascinating to see how many collectives are popping up all over Europe, each contributing in their own way to community building, activism, and the arts. For example, Femergy Collective in Germany, brings together indie female artists within a shared space that values both creativity and solidarity. In Bergen, Norway, DOT is a collective of artists, producers, DJs and techno event organizers focused. In Lithuania, Melos is a women’s collective seeking to create a space for practices of reduced and experimental music. The Belgrade-based Hali Gali is known for bringing together several bands from the Balkans (Vizelj, KOIKOI, Šajzerbiterlemon). The pun between Medea and Media in Greek Medea Electronique, is a clever twist, linking classical mythology with the digital age—a nod to how the collective’s work might challenge or explore the complex relationship we have with new media, technology, and art. Since 2009 the collective has been organizing the 10-day international artistic residency, Koumaria.
Music collectives are safe spaces, opening new doors for creativity and confidence building. Having a supportive body of people sharing a common passion for music motivates artists to continuously grow, and spark deep, meaningful change. So put yourself out there! Seek out any parts of the community that already exist and find people with the same mindset through that.
Have you considered joining Europavox Campus yourself? Whether you’re a musician or a music lover, you’re welcome to dive into our vibrant community and connect with others across Europe who share passion for music, and get the chance to experience diverse cultures and sounds.
According to those who’re already living it, it’s a thrilling experience.
