How Aberdeen Keeps Its Music Scene Alive and Kicking
In this Aberdeen Music Week documentary, local artists reflect on creating their own scene.
Aberdeen’s music scene doesn’t rely on hype or industry backing. It runs on persistence, collaboration and the belief that something good can come out of going to a gig on a Tuesday night. A new short film (below) from the team behind Aberdeen Music Week captures some of that energy, letting local voices reflect on the places, people and small moments that make the scene tick.
The short film features voices from The Gerry Jablonski Band, Aiitee, Vagrant Real Estate and Home Alone, each sharing their own take on what makes Aberdeen’s scene worth sticking with.
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Mutual support matters as much as buzz
What comes through is a shared sense that things are only going to happen if someone starts them. And more often than not, it’s the musicians doing it themselves.
Producer Vagrant Real Estate talks about the way Aberdeen artists back each other across genres. “There’s not too much of a sense of competition. Everyone’s just trying to lift everybody else up.”
Making a strong start
From open mic nights to packed-out gigs at Drummonds, there’s a thread of encouragement that runs through it all. People step up for each other, whether that’s lending gear, sharing a bill or giving someone their first shot.
Singer Aiitee credits her early music experiences to the care of the community. "Without primary school and the church in Aberdeen, there would be no me.” Pete from the Jerry Jablonski Band speaks about meeting his future bandmates by chance. There’s no blueprint. People figure it out together.
Finding space to play and grow
Many in the film mention the role venues play in keeping things moving. From small bars to places like the Lemon Tree or Music Hall, having stages to aim for matters. Some recall the first shows they ever played. Others talk about the places they watched their heroes, and the buzz of stepping into that space themselves.
Even as venues change or close, the need for spaces that welcome new ideas stays the same. Events like open mics, local showcases and informal jam nights all help create room for people to try things, mess up and improve.
Keep the scene going by showing up
If there’s a message behind the stories, it’s that scenes don’t build themselves. Going to a gig, sharing someone’s track, or putting on a show can all make a difference.
There’s so much going on in the city. More than we could hope to cover on POST, but going to see a live gig is a thrilling experience that you can’t recreate. What are you doing this weekend?
