The Cook County board has decided that Rap, rock, country, and DJ sets are not considered "fine arts" and therefore not exempt from the amusement tax. Not only does this mean that smaller venues will now have to pay an amusement tax, but the board is also requesting thousands of dollars in back pay of taxes.
These smaller venues, like Evil Olive and Beauty Bar, give artists a chance to succeed as musicians and provide a platform to music we love. Personally, going to see live bands and DJ sets in Chicago is one of my favorite activities to do.
Who is to say one way of art is more worthy than another? Certainly not the Cook County Board.
Attacking our music and culture isn't the answer to Cook Counties budget constraints.
Please sign to tell the Cook County Board to lay off small venues and consider ALL music as "fine arts".
Dear Mr. Preckwinkle,
I strongly urge you to lay off small venues and classify all music as "fine arts". Rock, country, rap and DJ sets have just as much worth as any other type of opera out there and are just as important to Chicago culture.
[Your comments here]
Sincerley,
[Your name here]
