Since 2005, OFF THE AIR Presents has been Modesto’s go-to spot for live indie folk and indie rock, bringing local, regional, and even international musicians to the stage. What started as a rebellious answer to the claim that "Modesto has no culture" has become a staple for music lovers seeking something real. Our intimate shows, usually drawing around 75 people (sometimes less, and sometimes more when we sell out and need bigger venues), are all about creating unforgettable live music experiences.

Founded by music advocate Greg Edwards, early OFF THE AIR shows were held at the Fat Cat Music House & Lounge in downtown Modesto. We didn’t just focus on live bands—local artists who weren’t part of traditional galleries found a home with us. With a love for curating high-quality art, our shows started attracting talented young creatives, from culinary experts to visual artists. But there was a problem...

The venue was 21+, meaning young creatives looking to connect with their community were left out. That didn’t sit well with us. Welcoming young creatives has always been a core part of OFF THE AIR’s mission, so Greg switched venues to Deva Café in downtown Modesto where people of all ages could attend. There, shows flourished. Bands formed, artists explored, and the creative energy helped launch a variety of bands, art communities, and careers.

In 2012, though, Greg followed a calling to Oakland, CA, and OFF THE AIR went quiet. As the series paused, many of the creatives who had found their footing through OFF THE AIR sought out bigger cities with more opportunities.

But by 2022, something kept pulling at Greg from Oakland. He couldn’t stop wondering—how was everyone in Modesto? He reached out to longtime friend and community advocate Stephanie Foster, who had been a part of OFF THE AIR from the start. Her reply? “Well, it ain’t great.”

That sparked something. Together, Greg and Stephanie set out to revive OFF THE AIR—and so, OFF THE AIR: Resurrection Sessions was born.

Partnering with the Downtown Modesto Partnership, Downtown Modesto Improvement District, Greens on Tenth, and DoubleTree Hotel, we brought the shows back to life in a new era, with a fresh audience. While it’s no small feat to come back in a digital age where we once relied on MySpace (remember that?) and Facebook, the energy was still there. Soon enough, OFF THE AIR was pulling in nationally and internationally touring acts, all while keeping the spotlight on local talent.

Our mission? To reignite the local indie singer-songwriter scene, get creatives involved, and bridge the gap between younger and older audiences. We’re creating a space where people of all ages can explore their creativity, connect with their community, and rediscover that Modesto is a damn fine place to grow. It’s as cool as you make it.

OFF THE AIR isn’t just another concert series. We’re here to change the story. By keeping new and seasoned creatives engaged, fostering community, and partnering with local nonprofits and businesses, we focus on the art, not the hype. We work with sponsors who believe in the power of live music to enrich Modesto’s cultural and economic fabric.

While we love indie music, we don’t want to be the only game in town. A rising tide lifts all boats, and we’re pouring everything we’ve got into the sea, hoping to see all boats rise. We hope our success inspires others to create their own live music experiences—whether it’s classical, punk, EDM, or something else. A thriving community needs variety, and we’re proud to be part of Modesto’s broader music scene.

Today, Stephanie Foster is carrying OFF THE AIR forward, bringing the same energy and dedication she’s shown in her community work with Downtown Modesto Partnership and the Modesto Symphony Orchestra. But there’s big work ahead—building a team, growing our resources, and expanding our reach.

Most importantly, though, we need you to show up. Without an audience, the show won’t go on. So, come see what we’re all about. Make new friends, sway to the music, forget your worries for a while, and witness what happens when a group of volunteers cares so much about their community that they just get it done.