"I won't break, I'll never blister. You forget we're just the same. And I know the better days are on their way. I was blind and you were broken. Now I can see the end of me. And I will fight tonight to get up off my knees. With every part of me." - American Wolves
So, you have no idea what that quote even is, am I right? You may be thinking I made it up. But, it is actually lyrics from an amazingly talented band. When I have the "What bands do you listen to" conversation, almost everyone has no idea who I am talking about, even if they are fairly popular in their genre. I have always tried to influence people into listening to them for numerous reasons. So here's why:
1. Amazing Lyrics
When I listen to music, the first thing I look for is lyric quality, and then I listen for their talent. I refuse to listen to most mainstream music that only talks about getting wasted and sex. I prefer to listen to uplifting music that speaks of real life problems. And a major plus is that they completely write their own music with little to no help. Most underground bands sing about controversial topics like depression, overcoming a major obstacle, and how the music world truly is. "Beauty sells, I buy it to, now I'm trying to sell it back to you" - Icon For Hire
2. Cheap Tickets
Tickets for Jay Z, Beyonce, Kanye, etc. are extremely expensive and often sold out. But, if you listen to an underground band, the tickets are rarely sold out, which means you will always be able to see them perform. They are also a lot cheaper. And sometimes, even free. Small bands usually stand at their merchandise tables before and after the show to sell you their products. This is a great opportunity to meet your favorite band(s). I have had the opportunity to meet so many bands with wonderful down to earth members. "Pop culture does nothing for me. The American dream mainstream just bores me. 'Cause I'm not like you, I'm immune, I'm immune. Say it over and over until it comes true" -Icon For Hire
3. They're Trying to Make A Living
They send you DMs to check out their music because they need your support. They want this as a career and pay bills just like everyone else. Bands are broke and need all your support in buying their merchandise. Don't think of it as them being stingy, think of it as you were able to help someone out. Bands are always grateful for any support. "Living Paycheck to paycheck. Pay check to paycheck." -Family Force 5
4. Supporting They're Dreams
We all have our dream careers. Some may be harder to achieve than others. Musicians can not reach there dreams without you, their fans. Whether you know one song or know every member's favorite color, you are helping them. It is an amazing feeling to be able to help anyone reach their potential. "Don't shoot me on the way down. 'Cause we've finally left the ground. Don't shoot me on the way down. We could find ourselves. Even though below cloud." -Lybecker
5. More Likely to Notice You
It's simple, the less fans, the more they are likely to see your tweet. Even if they are unknown, it's so exciting when they retweet you or reply to you. So many bands follow me and retweet my tweets, which is super rad. "Can anybody see? You won't believe your eyes. A stranger to me. You won't believe your eyes." -Nine Lashes
6. We're a Family
A small fan base is a tight family. When there is a huge fan base there is more drama but with a small fan base we all support one another. "You won't give up on me. I know You won’t give up on me. It’s plain to see that. We are one big family. And when I’m on my own. I'm out my comfort zone." -Family Force 5
7. Watching Them Grow
A band with one song out or a small following turns into a band with a top selling album and a verified account. Seeing a band prosper is like watching your child graduate from college. The bands literally are your babies. You're with them through the ups and downs. "I stand here today so far from the same. It's hard to move on without you." -Nine Lashes
8. Amazing Talent with Little Recognition
Underground bands are literally the Leonardo DiCaprio of the music industry. "Oh bravo. You're the best. There is no one else. Oh bravo. Our applause is not enough. Can you hear us yell out, yell out. On and on we go. Bravo" -Children 18:3