Extracting the night: Cultural extractivism and urban nightlife in Helsinki

Abstract

Adopting the concept of cultural extractivism, this article scrutinises how nightlife activities and spaces for live music are increasingly dependent on the forces of financialisation, which extract layers of material and immaterial assets for economic gain. Underground practices can temporarily disrupt this process, facilitating the emergence of alternative cultural practices; however, this cannot offer adequate lasting solutions and can only be addressed by creating a more equal and fairer city.

Drawing on insights from cultural studies, sociology and urban studies, this work contributes to a nuanced comprehension of the interplay between live music, the urban night, capitalist exploitation and resistance. Through qualitative analysis of interviews with city officials, club owners, party organisers, participants and DJs, the study presents a fresh perspective on the vulnerability of music ecosystems in the context of contemporary urban development.