A Promise to Minnesota Musicians That Their Work Matters
“This is why the Minnesota Music Archive is not just a mission to preserve the past. It is also a promise to all future artists that no matter what, their efforts to contribute to the art form of music will always matter and be accessible for generations to come….”
Mitch Thompson – Executive Director
DEMO, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in Minnesota, was founded by the legendary First Avenue manager Steve McClellan and has served the local music community since 2005. Over the years, the mission has evolved to focus on a solid, long-term goal: Promoting and Preserving Minnesota’s Independent Music Legacy.
Our flagship project, the Minnesota Music Archive (MMA), is at the heart of this mission. The MMA is a digital repository dedicated to celebrating Minnesota’s musical heritage—past, present, and future. It preserves and showcases recordings by Minnesota musicians, fostering a community that bridges gaps across different places, styles, generations, and cultures. By breaking down the “silos” in music, the MMA aims to create a more interconnected and inclusive musical landscape in Minnesota, ultimately enriching society as a whole.
Once fully developed, the archive will serve as a central hub for Minnesota music. This convergence point will not only preserve the rich musical heritage of the state but also act as a dynamic platform to champion and advocate for Minnesota music and the musicians who create it. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the archive aims to inspire future generations, ensuring that Minnesota’s vibrant musical legacy continues to thrive and evolve.