Friday, February 1, 2013
Q&A Promoter Liz Sowell on The Show That Should Not Happen
Posted by Amelia Shackelford on Fri, Feb 1, 2013 at 6:13 PM
- Courtesy Liz Sowell
- Liz Sowell at work.
While it's no surprise that someone who's become such an integral part the local music scene would throw a show for her birthday, Sowell is doing a little more than celebrating another trip around the sun. With help from sponsors Mae's Bakery, Sweetwater Brewery, Orange Amplifiers, and Liberty Tattoo, The Show That Should Not Happen will also serve as a benefit for the Atlanta Community Food Bank (ACFB).
Tell me about your background in the Atlanta music scene.
I've been working in the music industry, on and off, for most of my adult life. I work primarily as a talent buyer and promoter for the Masquerade currently, but I started my own promotions company by accident, actually. I needed shows to be promoted quickly, and I had the resources available to me. So one day a couple of years ago I just made up a name, PRCS music, from my copywriting and public relations freelance business, prcopystuff.com. All a happy accident, really.
It's a natural that you would throw a show for your birthday, but it's also a charity benefit. Why shift the spotlight away from yourself on your day?
I'm not a limelight person; I am a producer. I'm best suited behind the scenes. We all have our part in making these shows happen, and my part here is to make a memorable experience for concert-goers. The performers do their part by giving their all on stage. I just wanted to have a party where all the people I love and people I work with could enjoy their time. In my business, I work with so many genres that I had to find a way to give something to everyone. I would rather give something to the community because, for me, the best gift I can receive in life is to be able to help others any way I can, using the tools I have through my work and personal life. That stuff is way cooler than any present.
Why did you choose the Food Bank?
I have always donated to ACFB, even as a child. In college I got to know them better [when] I [used them for] a lot of ad campaigns. I realized how much they did as an organization to help better the community beyond just taking food donations. I also learned the reality of hunger in Georgia and how deeply it affects us all. I just wanted to see what kind of a dent the music community could put in the fight for hunger relief. I am very optimistic we will be able to give them a great amount of food and money.
Did you handpick the bands for the lineup?
I did hand pick the bands. I wanted to represent as many genres as possible. I think roughly 9 genres are represented here... I have known many of them for years through working in clubs and also personally. And I have had successful shows with these musicians, and I really enjoy their performances musically. They all bring something unique to the Atlanta music scene. There are so many good bands here. I could have added 20 more if time allowed, but these musicians are definitely not only talented but also kind folks who love to play. Being kind goes a long way for me.
What are you most excited about for the show?
To see how much we can raise for ACFB. And, of course, the bands' performances. This is going to be amazing if I can pull it off!
The Show That Should Not Happen, feat. Order Of the Owl, Shathouse Rats, Gun Party, Nigredo, Demonaut, White Widow, and Timmy & the Tumblers happens tonight (Friday, February 1) at the Star Bar. $10 or $5 with 3 cans of food. 8 p.m. 437 Moreland Ave. 404-681-9018.
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