Change in the Music Scene
Last year marked a notable shift in the music landscape of Southeast Idaho. While 2023 brought an optimistic outlook with a strong lineup of local and out-of-state bands performing across multiple venues, 2024 painted a less vibrant picture. The year saw significant challenges and setbacks, but also glimmers of hope as some venues and events persevered.
A Year of Ups and Downs
In early 2024, one local venue showed promise but sadly had to close its doors after just a year. The Pocatello outdoor venue, a longstanding favorite for concerts, found itself entangled in a company’s mismanagement. This debacle forced them to seek alternative options and resulted in a lackluster year with no major shows to speak of. Adding to the turmoil was the local music scene’s internal drama, which seemed to implode under its own weight, leaving many disheartened.
Despite these setbacks, Southeast Idaho’s music scene wasn’t entirely bleak. Two venues stood out as beacons of resilience and success: the Shoshone-Bannock Casino’s venue and the newly opened Mountain America Event Center in Idaho Falls. These establishments not only managed to keep their operations running smoothly but also brought in a variety of notable acts, ensuring that live music lovers still had something to look forward to.
Highlights of Resilience
Breaking Benjamin: Mountain America Event Center
The Shoshone-Bannock Casino venue continued to deliver a consistent lineup of quality performances, catering to a wide audience with its diverse selection of artists. Meanwhile, the Mountain America Event Center emerged as a game-changer for the region’s music scene. Its state-of-the-art facilities and professional staff set a new standard for how venues in Southeast Idaho should operate.
I had the privilege of photographing the Breaking Benjamin and Daughtry concert at the Mountain America Event Center, an experience that stood out as a highlight of the year. The event was impeccably organized, with staff members who were both professional and approachable. Their ability to create a fun yet safe atmosphere was commendable, and as a photographer, I found it easy to navigate the venue while capturing high-quality shots. The cooperation between press members and the venue’s team exemplified how live events should be run.
Daughtry: Mountain America Event Center
Looking to the Future
As we step into 2025, there are promising signs of revitalization in Southeast Idaho’s music scene. The Portneuf Wellness Complex, which faced challenges in recent years, is finally getting back on track. Talks of the Stephens Performing Arts Center bringing in more artists add to the growing optimism. The Stephens Center, known for its excellent acoustics and intimate atmosphere, could become a cornerstone for the region’s live music offerings if it capitalizes on these opportunities.
Another exciting addition to the local music landscape is Old Town Pocatello’s Lookout Point venue. This new establishment has already begun to make its mark by supporting local artists and providing a platform for the community’s talent to shine. With its focus on nurturing the local music scene, Lookout Point has the potential to become a hub for creativity and connection.
Gone After Midnight: They performed at lookout point venue 2024
Lessons Learned and Moving Forward
The challenges of 2024 highlighted the importance of strong leadership and sustainable management in the music industry. Venues like the Mountain America Event Center have shown that success requires more than just good bookings; it’s about creating a comprehensive experience that satisfies artists, audiences, and collaborators alike. Their approach—professional yet personable—sets a benchmark for others to emulate.
Community support will also play a crucial role in shaping the future of Southeast Idaho’s music scene. From attending concerts to promoting local talent, every effort counts in building a thriving cultural ecosystem. Partnerships between venues, artists, and local businesses could further enhance the region’s appeal as a music destination.
The Path Ahead
Southeast Idaho stands at a crossroads, with both challenges and opportunities ahead. The successes of venues like the Shoshone-Bannock Casino and the Mountain America Event Center provide a roadmap for others to follow. By fostering a collaborative and community-driven approach, the region can overcome the setbacks of the past year and look forward to a brighter, more harmonious future.
With the right mix of innovation, support, and resilience, 2025 could mark the beginning of a new era for music in Southeast Idaho. Whether it’s through the revival of old favorites or the emergence of new venues like Lookout Point, the potential for growth is undeniable. For music lovers and creators alike, there’s every reason to be hopeful.