At Human Being Productions, we’ve always been passionate about telling authentic, local stories that resonate on a deeper level. That’s why when the opportunity arose to produce Do Whatever You Want All the Time, a documentary chronicling Baltimore’s unique music scene from 2005 to 2020, we jumped at the chance. Partnering with WTMD, a public radio station known for championing local talent, allowed us to dive deep into the creative heart of Baltimore’s underground music culture and shine a light on the artists, venues, and moments that defined an era.

WTMD and Human Being Productions: A Creative Partnership

For us at Human Being Productions, collaborating with WTMD felt like a natural fit. WTMD has long supported Baltimore’s independent artists, giving them a platform to reach wider audiences, and we have enjoyed filming the First Thursday Festival Series since 2017. Sam Sessa of WTMD and Julia Golonka of Human Being Productions combined their talents and expertise to tell a story that not only showcased the incredible talent within the city, but also told the story of a community driven by creativity, collaboration, and the DIY ethos. This partnership allowed us to create a film that reflects the true spirit of Baltimore’s music scene—raw, unfiltered, and unapologetically independent.

The Baltimore Sound: A Blend of Creativity and Grit

What makes Baltimore’s music scene so unique is its ability to blend raw, gritty energy with bold experimentation. From the gritty art rock of Ponytail to the ethereal, atmospheric sounds of Beach House, the city became known for its distinct voice that refused to be boxed in. Artists in Baltimore pushed boundaries, often blurring genres and creating sounds that challenged conventions. Do Whatever You Want All the Time delves deep into a unique period of time in the city, spotlighting key artists, venues, and moments that defined the scene. Interviews with musicians, promoters, and die-hard fans help tell the story of a city that embraced creativity over commercialism. The title itself, inspired by Ponytail’s third album, reflects the spirit of the scene: a sense of freedom and independence that empowered artists to create without limits.

Venues as Cultural Pillars

At the heart of the Baltimore music scene were its iconic venues. Spaces like the Paradox, the Ottobar, Metro, Windup Space and Floristree weren’t just places to perform—they were cultural hubs that fostered a sense of community. These DIY spaces encouraged artists to experiment with their sound and connected them with others who shared the same creative drive. The DIY ethos is central to Baltimore’s music scene. From self-releasing albums to organizing grassroots shows, the artists featured in the documentary were self-starters who didn’t wait for validation from mainstream labels or critics. This mindset allowed the scene to flourish on its own terms, giving rise to acts that maintained creative control over their art. Dan Deacon, a Baltimore staple, rose to prominence through unexpected shows and performances that created a one-of-a-kind audience experience. His journey exemplifies the power of community support for creative spaces.

The Impact and Influence Beyond Baltimore

Many of the artists from this time period went on to gain national and international recognition. Acts like Future Islands, who started playing small shows in Baltimore, eventually found themselves performing on late-night television and headlining major music festivals. Do Whatever You Want All the Time emphasizes how Baltimore artists, through their dedication and creativity, influenced a broader cultural movement. This film is more than just a documentary—it’s a tribute to a pivotal time in Baltimore’s musical history. By chronicling the artists, venues, and DIY culture that defined the scene from 2005 to 2020, Do Whatever You Want All the Time preserves a legacy of innovation, creativity, and community through the eyes of those who lived it. Baltimore’s music scene is constantly reminding us all that great art often comes from those who do whatever they want, all the time. The documentary is now free to view for all on WTMD’s YouTube channel, and we hope you enjoy it as much as us.