Buddy Holly influenced a lot of people. This is a bit off the wall, but the question lurking has always been whether place has something to do with good music. For example, Lubbock, Texas has produced a prodigious amount of musical talent and isn't otherwise usually known for a lot. Jamaica (with a population similar to the State of Iowa) is another example. Liverpool changed the world as we know it.
Good observation. Thought-provoking side-topic.
Definitely some "hotbeds" associated with music that aren't anchored in major population areas, which can have advantages by number of groups/artists available and more direct access to exposure opportunities. Such as New York, L.A., London, et. al. Oh, and Cleveland. Hello Cleveland! Among others.
Eventually, some places become hubs of music culture, a scene grows organically and becomes part of the identity, for various reasons.
