The #25YearsLoud celebration continues as we hear from more of the Colorado music scene staples who helped make sure UMS and other cultural events thrive.

This round, we’re spotlighting Jessi Whitten.

Jessi has been a pivotal piece of Denver’s culture - from being a pioneer of radio with OpenAir and trusted voice on Colorado Public Radio, to leadership at High Plains Comedy and Levitt Pavilion, even hosting PBS12’s Sounds on 29th, Jessi’s commitment to connecting folks through the arts is clear, and we love her for it.

Throughout her adventures, she’s had countless interviews with your favorite artists - many before they hit it big, and quite a few during UMS.

Here are Jessi’s highlights from her many years being part of the evolution of the Underground Music Showcase:

“My favorite thing about these music packed days of UMS is that it concentrates so much local talent in one place at one time. From legacy scene making bands to up-and- comers who don't even have studio recordings, UMS discovers and books incredible local talent.

Most of my time at UMS since launching the music radio station OpenAir in 2011 (and then transitioning into Indie 102.3 FM in 2019) has been spent interviewing and recording bands. The fact that I was able to sit down and get sessions with New Mexican, Mawule, Nina de Freitas and Kiltro (then a baby band of 3 who had only played together one other time previously) all in one day was incredible.

While so many of my memories are based on these intimate discussions and performances the UMS made possible for us to schedule, it's the unplanned discoveries that I cherish most. Back in 2017 I had wrapped my interviews and stage announcements for the day and just wandered into 3 Kings (now HQ) to end my night. I had walked in during a set from Los Mocochetes without ever hearing them before. Even with my body exhausted from nearly 3 full days of U A Mess living up to its nickname, their fiery performance enlivened me.

I emailed my crew from the side stage as I watched the show, demanding that we get them in for a studio session immediately. Now I can't imagine the Colorado music scene without Los Mocochetes front and center.

It was UMS that brought them to me, along with countless other beloved bands.

25 years of life sculpting taste-masking, thanks UMS!”