16OC: A Pillar of Chicago's Live Music Scene Through Community Engagement

This conversation with Bruce Finkelman, co-founder of 16” on Center (16OC), is part of Hypebot's In The Trenches series.

Building a Community-Centric Venue Collective

Founded by Bruce Finkelman and Craig Golden, 16OC is committed to preserving Chicago's cultural vibrancy. The collective manages a variety of sought-after establishments, including SPACE, The Empty Bottle, Thalia Hall, The Promontory, and The Salt Shed, a remarkable venue repurposed from the former Morton Salt Factory. This portfolio demonstrates their dedication not just to hospitality but to the arts and local communities, serving as hubs for entertainment and connection.

A Philosophy Built on Quality and Longevity

Finkelman's guiding principle for 16OC has been uncomplicated yet effective: “building places we like with the hopes that others like them too.” This operating philosophy has led them to thoughtfully create spaces that offer more than just a commercial service—they aim to enhance neighborhood culture and attract crowds who seek community interaction.

The name 16” on Center derives from construction terminology, representing a method that produces the most stable structure. This principle guides their approach to venue development, ensuring high-quality, lasting experiences for patrons.

Community as the Cornerstone of Success

At 16OC, the strength of community involvement is paramount. Each venue is designed to resonate with its neighborhood, recognizing that local engagement is the foundation of their success. "Our venues reside in the neighborhoods they serve; its success depends on its neighbors," Finkelman emphasizes, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between the venues and the communities they inhabit.

Navigating Challenges in a Competitive Market

Since launching with The Empty Bottle in 1992, 16OC has faced numerous challenges, not least of which is rising costs in real estate and live events. Remarkably, they have adapted by tuning in to customer feedback and adjusting their operations accordingly. Their customer-centric approach is a crucial part of their strategy to not only survive but also thrive amid an evolving landscape.

Complex Relationship with Major Players

The dynamics with larger entities like Live Nation and Ticketmaster bring both challenges and opportunities. “They are a competitor, partner, and vendor. It makes for a complicated relationship,” Finkelman acknowledges. While these connections can pose threats, they also offer collaboration points, deeper networking, and potential resource sharing which can be beneficial for independent venues.

Solidarity Among Independent Venues

Finkelman, also active in advocacy groups like The Chicago Independent Venue League (CIVL) and NIVA, notes that the struggles faced by independent venues in Chicago are widely shared. “Every independent venue is facing the same struggles,” he observes, indicating a community of support among competitors which is vital for navigating these turbulent waters together.

Diversifying Revenue Streams

The concept of multiple revenue streams, referred to by Golden as the “this and that” principle, is central to their resilience. With various businesses under the 16OC umbrella—from bars to restaurants and venues—they mitigate risks associated with market volatility and shifting audience preferences.

Building Loyalty with Artists

Artists such as Modest Mouse, Alabama Shakes, and Gary Clark Jr. have forged lasting relationships with 16OC, growing alongside the venues as they transitioned from smaller spaces to larger ones. "We find it common in our pipeline because the folks are family; people we have watched grow up throughout the years," Finkelman shares, reflecting on the deep connections established with artists over time.

Strategies for Audience Engagement

In an environment where algorithm-driven platforms can obscure artist visibility, 16OC prioritizes authenticity. “We follow our north star which is doing the things we like, hoping others like them too,” Finkelman shares. This commitment to honest, meaningful programming is a cornerstone for fostering genuine audience engagement.

For insights into how independent venues are managing to cultivate their audiences, the In The Trenches series continues to highlight unique strategies and challenges faced across the U.S.