City Cast Denver Should 16th St. Become the Vegas Strip? Plus, Big UMS Feelings and the ICE Mask Debate
Feb 13, 2026
Shawn King, drummer and founding member of DeVotchKa, reflects on his long ties to Denver’s music scene. He and the hosts debate the Underground Music Showcase moving to RiNo and whether that shift will change its character. They imagine bold ideas for 16th Street, trade wins and fails around local news, and share colorful stories about venues, markets, and downtown life.
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DeVotchKa's Holiday Show Rituals
- Shawn King described DeVotchKa's holiday residency habits and the performer-audience blurred lines at big shows.
- He recalled people coming on stage and crowds shaping the night’s vibe.
Close Streets To Make Fests Feel Like Festivals
- Prioritize fully closing streets to create a safe, cohesive festival atmosphere.
- Proper barricades and rerouting make events feel like true street festivals.
Corporate Appeal Versus Grassroots Roots
- Corporate festival branding (like Sundance pop-ups) can boost exposure but shifts the local, grassroots feel.
- Increased sponsorship can help artists get paid but risks diluting community roots.