At OurGig.com, we evaluate music scenes as complete creative ecosystems, not just trending markets or tourist destinations. Our methodology combines industry research, cultural history, and real-world experience working with artists and music professionals to identify cities where music thrives sustainably over time.
1. Genre Influence & Cultural Impact
We assess whether a city has created, shaped, or consistently influenced major music genres. Cities that have produced genre-defining movements or sustained global relevance across decades score higher than those driven by short-term trends.
Key signals include:
- Origin or evolution of influential genres
- Global adoption of sounds and styles
- Lasting cultural relevance
2. Live Music Infrastructure
A strong music scene requires places to perform. We analyze the density, diversity, and accessibility of live music venues, from small independent rooms to major performance spaces.
Factors include:
- Number and variety of venues
- Frequency of live performances
- Support for emerging and independent artists
3. Artist Development & Career Opportunity
OurGig.com places strong weight on career pathways. We examine how effectively a city supports artists beyond exposure—helping them build sustainable careers.
Measured through:
- Access to studios, producers, managers, and collaborators
- Local audiences willing to support new music
- Opportunities for touring, sync, publishing, and growth
4. Music Industry Presence
We evaluate the professional infrastructure that supports music creation and monetization.
Includes:
- Labels, publishers, distributors, PR firms, and management
- Songwriting and production ecosystems
- Educational and professional resources
5. Global Reach & Export Power
Cities earn higher rankings when their artists and sounds travel beyond local markets and influence international audiences.
Indicators include:
- International chart performance and streaming impact
- Festival presence and touring demand
- Cultural export visibility
6. Scene Diversity & Depth
The strongest music cities support multiple genres and subcultures simultaneously. We prioritize scenes where mainstream success and underground creativity coexist.
Assessed by:
- Range of genres and communities
- Strength of grassroots and DIY movements
- Longevity beyond a single sound or era
7. Long-Term Sustainability
We look for consistency over time, not hype cycles. Cities must demonstrate ongoing relevance, adaptability, and resilience in the face of industry changes.
What We Don’t Rank By
To maintain objectivity, we do not rank music scenes based solely on:
- Tourism appeal
- Cost of living
- Government marketing claims
- Viral popularity or short-term streaming spikes
These factors may provide context but are not decisive.
OurGig.com’s Perspective
What sets OurGig.com apart is our hands-on experience working directly with artists, labels, and music professionals. Our rankings reflect not just data, but practical insight into where artists can actually build careers, connect with audiences, and grow long-term.
With 25 years of experience in helping with global tours, album launches, and fundraising for music schools and colleges—not to mention countless artist projects worldwide—OurGig.com is here for you. Whether you need help planning a tour or connecting with the right audience for your music or shows, reach out! We’d love to collaborate on what you’re working on.