AI has invaded the music industry but studio veterans say the human element is irreplaceable. Part 4 of the Local Spins series on the “AI Revolution in Music” spotlights the views of three West Michigan recording studio veterans.
The power and dangers of AI in music are real and expanding at lightning speed. In this series, Local Spins will explore the sometimes-scary technology with respected Michigan recording engineers. Today, see how easy it is to us an AI platform to create a song and find out why one iconic studio owner reviles this trend.
Commentary · Festivals · In-Depth Report · Summer Festivals
Several Michigan music festivals called it quits after a “dismal” 2024 and others are reassessing their future. Local Spins takes a deeper dive into the emerging crisis with comments and analysis from festival organizers.
In-Depth Report · Summer Festivals
Today, Local Spins not only unveils the official poster for the May 18 festival at Studio Park, but kicks off its series exploring how area ‘schools of rock’ aim to inspire the next generation of musicians.
In-Depth Report · Summer Festivals
After a Washington festival shooting, Electric Forest has revealed stepped-up security measures. And there’s a busy Michigan summer of packed outdoor events ahead. An in-depth report with safety tips for festivalgoers.
Local Spins’ annual Labor Day column targeting hurdles still faced by working musicians in 2022 focuses on sobering results of a new Michigan Music Alliance survey. Peruse this year’s report and read comments from Michigan musicians.
Breaking music news · In-Depth Report · Local Spins on WYCE
Founders Brewing will resume shows later this month after two years of silence, another example of live music’s robust return this year. Local Spins revisits how West Michigan venues are coping, the challenges that remain and what fans can expect.
It comes straight from the musicians themselves: The sobering Labor Day assessment of where things stand for performers and songwriters after a cataclysmic, pandemic-impaired year. A must-read from Local Spins.
Breaking music news · In-Depth Report
Shows at Seven Steps Up, and several at The Pyramid Scheme, will require vaxxed proof as show and festival cancellations once again resurface this summer. An update and in-depth report at Local Spins
In-Depth Report · Summer Festivals · Upcoming shows
Growing concerns about the delta variant as Michigan enters its busiest stretch of concerts and music festivals this summer could spark vaccination mandates or mask requirements for some shows. The in-depth report at Local Spins.
Behind the glamour: In today’s essay, musician and Local Spins writer Enrique Olmos reveals his struggles with mental health and explores this important, oft-neglected subject with other musicians and experts in the field. Plus, find links to mental health resources.
In-Depth Report · Photos · Weekend Photo Gallery
Amid capacity restrictions and limited ticket sales, bands and solo artists must adjust to an altered financial landscape as live music returns. Local Spins presents an in-depth report on the impact the pandemic has had on musicians’ livelihood.
In-Depth Report · Upcoming shows · Videos
The latest “Comeback Road” video focuses on The Pyramid Scheme, plus we update other outlets getting state grants and some places — including Grand Haven — where outdoor concerts are planned. And see how some venues and organizations plan to use state assistance to move forward.
Breaking music news · In-Depth Report · Summer Festivals
Several Michigan music festivals have canceled summer events for the second year in a row. But others are moving ahead in 2021, barring a coronavirus resurge. The lowdown on the state’s upcoming festival season at Local Spins.
Breaking music news · In-Depth Report · Venue Spotlight
”Sick of the stress.” Concert venues still have no financial help a year after shutdown. And while state aid is imminent, federal funding remains in question — and that could jeopardize some clubs. The update at Local Spins.
Big List Concert Guide · In-Depth Report · Upcoming shows
Amid new COVID rules, Michigan bars and restaurants throw open their doors this week at 25 percent capacity, with a few dipping their toes into live music again. See who’s playing at the few West Michigan establishments offering performances.
Features · In-Depth Report · Videos
The marathon pandemic has completely upended West Michigan arts groups, musicians and dancers, and hit them hard financially. But videos and other innovations are keeping them alive and keeping them connected to fans. Learn more about how these prominent cultural organizations are weathering the storm and see how you can help.
With some performance spaces reopening, Local Spins touched base with some West Michigan artists about playing music in front of a live audience again. Browse comments from musicians about the “new normal” when it comes to concerts — from worries that remain about performing to the satisfaction of being back on stage. And some concerns remain.
Amid the coronavirus crisis and a turbulent music industry, a new advocacy group based in Niles aims to give roadies and their families a helping hand — from counseling to financial assistance. Get the exclusive back story in this Local Spins feature story and see how this West Michigan clinic is making a difference.
Features · In-Depth Report · Venue Spotlight
Venues are rallying for federal aid and short-term prospects for live music appear bleak. See what some experts and concertgoers say about the future of the live music industry amid COVID-19, their concerns about inconsiderate fans and the impact of a possible vaccine. Plus, see how you can help venues in their struggle for survival.
