The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
MUSICIANS JAM, ENERGIZE AREA
Live performances, rap battle showcase talent on Broadway
An evening of connections through music, Broadway Mary’s is hoping to a big part of Lorain’s downtown revival as a center for the arts.
On Sept. 5 the restaurant located at 939 Broadway hosted an artist’s networking event as an opportunity to showcase local talent and provide a space to collaborate and create.
The event organized by Darius Price-Smith, an audio engineer and musician, included live performances and a rap battle.
“Thank you all for bringing some good music to the city. That’s what it’s all about,” PriceSmith said, opening the evening.
"I’m just trying to create a space for artists and creatives to have an outlet to get inspired ... . "
— Darius Price-Smith
Performances from Price-Smith’s group, along with Tenawai, a musical collective of eight members, brought ample opportunities for creative exploration through music.
While this networking event was music heavy, all types of artists are welcome.
Broadway Mary’s owner Mary Fields shares this vision, believing PriceSmith’s enthusiasm provides a spark for the International City.
“I’m just trying to create a space for artists and creatives to have an outlet to get inspired and just create more music and buzz down here downtown Lorain,” Fields said.
“I feel like we are the entertainment district, I feel like I foresee the future just being a music scene. And I think it’s all going to start with people like this that collaborate and bring it together,” she said.
Fields added the turnout brought goose bumps, seeing the potential of her business as an outdoor venue for all sorts of events that can bring the Lorain community together.