Everybody worldwide has heard the term “Emo.” Many people probably have a set thought or associate it with different subgenres, subcultures, and certain music and styles, but where did it originate?
Emo is a widely known genre that traces back to heavy music, clothes, style, hair, and characteristics depicted by anybody who refers to themselves as “Emo.” The music is known to have originated through the popular band “Rites of Spring,” which debuted in 1985 with their hit self-titled album “Rites of Spring.” The emo genre gained much popularity in Washington, DC, in the 80s due to the origins of the original band members. However, emo didn’t shine in the spotlight until the late ’90s and early 2000s due to the album “Bleed American” by the still-famous band, “Jimmy Eat World.” Other prominent bands during this era include “My Chemical Romance,” “Fall Out Boy,” “Panic! At the Disco,” “Title Fight,” and many more.
Popular Lakewood venue Mahall’s recently celebrated the 10th birthday of Emo Night CLE; they threw a giant bash filled with two days’ worth of entertainment and excitement for the emo genre. They celebrated with many concerts on Friday from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Unfortunately for most high school students, it was exclusively 18+. Thankfully, on Saturday, all ages were invited, with people from all over Ohio visiting Mahall’s to encapsulate the atmosphere of the Emo Flea Market. Shops and sponsors made the venue come alive with elusive vibes from around the state.
Small business The Cyprus Cabinet came from Holliston, Massachusetts, to sell its handmade jewelry and accessories. Its creator, Madison McKenna, has been producing her jewelry for nine years, and she takes pride in every one of her handcrafted pieces.
“Some styles I’ll sit on for years, so I like to make sure things are super sturdy,” McKenna said. “It takes me a few days from start to finish.”
Cyprus Cabinet has rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, bangles, and personalized accessories for everybody’s enjoyment, but one item is a fan favorite: rings.
“People love rings, I have an emphasis on ring sizing, from sizes 3-13 I have all of my rings in that range,” McKenna said. “So anybody can have anything.”
Even though The Cyprus Cabinet is located in Massachusetts, their popular online shop allows anybody to purchase the unique jewelry that they provide.
“I do a lot of online and wholesale as well,” McKenna said. “I’m in stores all around, and on my website everything is available.”
Well-known Lakewood store, The Exchange, also made a mark on this event, with head manager Maggie Sailor and her business partner selling many figurines, vinyl, CDs, collectibles, and more intriguing items.
“We started as a record store, so I take a lot of pride in selling CD’s and vinyl,” Sailor stated.
The Exchange attracts people of all ages and demographics; anybody can find something unique and personalized for their attractions.
“Today I have sold a surprising amount of figurines, despite it being an Emo Flea Market,” Sailor said. “I’ve sold horror movie memorabilia and things like that, but we’ve sold a ton of records, a lot of CDs as you would expect.”
The Exchange loves attending events like this; conversing with people who are just as passionate about buying as they are about selling makes a great experience.
“Anytime I get to talk about any media I love it all, anytime I get to talk about it with somebody else who likes it, I’m happy.” Sailor said. “This is the kind of business where that’s possible, so everything we’ve sold today I’ve gotten to have a good conversation.”
People from all over Ohio came to admire Mahall’s incredible event and the Emo Flea Market’s attractions. Lakewood High School freshman Sebastian Bukys enjoyed this event and bought a few items.
“I purchased a few cookies and a keychain,” Bukys said. “I think there were a lot of unique vendors, it was all very cool.”
People of all ages attended this booming event, and generation after generation all came together to celebrate the bond of the culture, music, and impact of emo culture.
Interests, activities, and passions can bring people from far and wide together. Mahall’s highlighted hundreds of people’s love for the emo culture and captivated many people’s interests and enjoyment in just one building.
