This year’s Labor Day column on the plight of musicians comes amid what may be the worse year ever for live music due to COVID-19. See how bands are struggling to survive and how they view the future in this commentary.
Asking Local Spins readers to name their favorite concert of all time was asking for trouble. But the ridiculously difficult task produced some incredible memories from some remarkable shows. Check out the responses in this fun, reader-generated assignment.
Last week’s “Question of the Week” at Local Spins sparked a record number of responses from readers reminiscing about the first concert they ever attended. Check out some of their memories and the wide variety of artists who first captured their live music fancy.
Commentary · Features · Videos
As leader of Grand Rapids’ Vintage Parlor Orchestra, Thomas Pike faces unique challenges in gathering his large ensemble for practices and performances while following new social-distancing rules. He explores the issues facing music groups in this Local Spins essay and provides some guidance in how bands can make it work.
In the wake of nationwide protests, Local Spins columnist Tricia Boot Woolfenden reflects on the music industry’s historic “pattern of white-washing” and stealing black artists’ music — and how we can do better. A special Sunday commentary at Local Spins.
Local Spins today kicks off a series of features on the prospects of returning to live music and festivals amid the new normal. Today, publisher John Sinkevics probes the difficult dilemma and uncertainties facing fans and show organizers.
Big List Concert Guide · Commentary
Normally on Mondays, Local Spins is all about giving you the lowdown on concerts for the week ahead. COVID-19 has changed all that. But we’re still determined to keep you updated on Michigan’s music scene.
Commentary · Summer Festivals · Upcoming shows
Musicians and prospective festival organizers have “sold out” a Tuesday networking/roundtable session at Grand Rapids’ Listening Room probing the mysteries – and basics – of music festivals. Learn more about the session and get some tips from a veteran festival organizer and musician.
The legendary Grand Rapids DJ and radio personality finally revealed this week the medical issue and surgery that’s kept him out of the public eye in recent months. Today, Local Spins shares his story.
Commentary · Playlists · Top 10 Lists · Videos
As the ever-woeful Detroit Lions get ready for their traditional Thanksgiving Day game, Local Spins recaps the sad history of the franchise with a rock ‘n’ roll playlist of reflective misery. The pre-game column, playlist and videos.
Commentary · Features · Playlists · Videos
Today marks the 50th anniversary of the release of The Beatles’ “Abbey Road” in the United Kingdom. And because The Beatles are one of the most covered bands of all time, Local Spins has compiled a playlist of the best covers of songs from this classic album, from Aerosmith and Joe Cocker to Elliott Smith and Florence + The Machine. Check out the videos and listen to the songs on Spotify.
This annual Local Spins Labor Day column revisits the financial plight of local musicians, who cannot live on passion and applause alone. Amid a growing West Michigan music scene, it’s an essay for the times with comments from these ‘stars of the stage.’
