Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows · Videos

Flint Eastwood reveals struggles of growing up gay in a religious environment, embracing her mom’s spirit and, yes, ditching the hat

• February 22, 2018

In a far-reaching interview with Local Spins writer Ricky Olmos, Jax Anderson of pop’s Flint Eastwood opens up about her past, her love of Detroit and her mission to do “as much good as possible” with her emerging stardom. Her tour with PVRIS stops in Grand Rapids this weekend. Check out the video for her single, “Monster.”

Features · Local Spins at SXSW · Upcoming shows · Videos

Tunde Olaniran, Lady Ace Boogie, Major Murphy, Bernard, Lavengood & Stovetop ready to make waves at Michigan House SXSW

• February 20, 2018

Michigan House once again aims to offer ‘breath of fresh air’ and ‘authentic’ Mitten State vibe amid the craziness of world’s largest music festival and conference in Austin next month. Get the lowdown on the 2018 events and lineup at Local Spins.

Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows

The Big List (Feb. 19-25): Blake Shelton, A Day to Remember, Chase Rice, Jeezy, Bela Fleck, G Herbo, Galactic, UV Hippo, PVRIS

• February 19, 2018

The week also boasts CD-releases by Suzies and John Proulx, Grand Rapids Symphony’s “Symphony With Soul” and shows by Frontier Ruckus, Gregory Porter, Last Gasp Collective, Murder Party, El Brandino and Jesse Ray, plus West Michigan’s first-ever tribute to Steve Earle. And win tickets to see Galactic or PVRIS.

Artist Spotlights · Kalamazoo · Upcoming shows · Videos

Kalamazoo’s Nashon Holloway finds direction, inspiration and ‘Chicago soul’ in the Windy City

• February 15, 2018

After making her home in Chicago the past year while exploring new musical connections, the singer and guitarist returns to Kalamazoo for a homecoming show at Bell’s Brewery on Saturday. Local Spins writer Ryan Boldrey checks back in with the talented singer as she prepares for the next step in her career.

Concert announcements · Upcoming shows · Videos

Short’s Brewing street bash to star Steppin’ In It, Lindsay Lou and winner of band battle

• February 13, 2018

The Bellaire brewery is hosting a two-month-long band battle leading up to its April street party which is expected to attract 3,000 revelers. Get the details about the competition and the 14th birthday celebration.

Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows

The Big List (Feb. 12-18): Pop Evil, Talib Kweli, Here Come the Mummies, Marillion, Ballroom Thieves, Valerie June, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy

• February 12, 2018

Valentine’s Day brings Kathy Lamar’s “Sade/Love Songs” to SpeakEZ Lounge, with the week also featuring Brockhampton, Cabildo, Kofi Baker, Twin Flame, Badfish and more. Plus, see how you can win Pop Evil tickets as part of our weekly giveaway. And plan ahead with our exclusive “On the Horizon” list.

Concert announcements · Upcoming shows

Blondie, Tedeschi Trucks Band, O.A.R. to rock 2018 Meijer Gardens concert series

• February 12, 2018

As renovations to the outdoor amphitheater continue, the venue today announced the first three shows for its summer season, with more concerts to be announced in April. Get ticket details and see when these 2018 concerts take place.

Commentary · Upcoming shows

Hip hop is back at Billy’s Lounge with a powerful roster of stars

• February 10, 2018

Tonight (Saturday), Grand Rapids’ Lady Ace Boogie hosts an impressive lineup of West Michigan’s hip hop talent. Local Spins columnist Ryan Nehring reflects on the return of hip hop to Billy’s and what it means for purveyors of this genre to have a mid-size venue for their art.

Concert announcements · Summer Festivals · Upcoming shows

Cowpie 2018 to star Steel Wheels, Hyryder, Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper with local band battle determining final festival act

• February 8, 2018

For the first time, Cowpie will host a “Pathway to the Pasture” contest this spring to choose its final band for the August festival. See which bands will be competing at venues in four cities and get details about the headliners announced for Cowpie 2018 so far.

Album reviews · Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows

Public Access amps up ‘freeing,’ giant rock machine for sophomore release

• February 8, 2018

The West Michigan super-group plans an ambitious ‘immersive experience’ for its release show at Grand Rapids’ Wealthy Theatre on Saturday. Learn the back story of this unusual project and read the Local Spins review of the new album.

Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows · Videos

The Verve Pipe ‘more energized than ever before’ by touring, recording fresh material

• February 7, 2018

In a Local Spins interview, Brian Vander Ark, frontman for the Grand Rapids band, says he’s ’embraced the rock again’ as the group prepares for a homecoming show Saturday at 20 Monroe Live. Find out what the alt-rockers have been up to and watch a video of a song from The Verve Pipe’s latest album.

Features · Festivals · Upcoming shows

Michigan Concert Digest: Microbrew & Music Fest to debut at Mount Mancelona; Ryan Scott Graham set for Detroit homecoming

• February 6, 2018

For those willing to hit the road, there are intriguing options this weekend boasting a unique Michigan flair. Check out two of them at Local Spins: a preview of the Microbrew & Music Festival in northern Michigan and an interview with the Michigan native fronting Speak Low If You Speak Love, which plays Detroit on Friday.

Guest Column · Upcoming shows

WYCE’s Jammie Awards assure robust night of music, community, ‘awesome’ vibe

• February 6, 2018

The 19th annual showcase of regional music unfurls Friday night at The Intersection. WYCE manager Quinn Mathews reflects on the daunting but inspiring ‘biggest night for West Michigan music.’ See and save the full schedule.

Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows

The Big List (Feb. 5-11): Marilyn Manson, Luke Combs, The Verve Pipe, Public Access, Robbie Fulks, The Jammie Awards, NF, Avatar

• February 5, 2018

Christian rapper NF kicks off the week with another sold-out show at 20 Monroe Live, but there’s more, including Albert Lee, Hippo Campus, Edye Evans Hyde, Old Salt Union, Lady Ace Boogie, The Jetbeats, That Beatles Thing and more. And see how you can win tickets to The Verve Pipe.

Festivals · Upcoming shows · Videos

Cooper’s Glen Festival in Kalamazoo aims to ‘blow the roof off the place’ with acoustic fire

• January 31, 2018

Hosted for the 16th year by the Great Lakes Acoustic Music Association, Saturday’s affair boasts workshops and sets by Tom Paxton, Michael Cleveland, Don Julin and much more. See the full schedule for this year’s one-day festival.

Artist Spotlights · Features · Upcoming shows · Videos

Judy Collins follows ‘extraordinary year’ with Grand Rapids tour stop, pulling no punches politically or otherwise

• January 30, 2018

In a revealing interview with Local Spins, the legendary singer talks about her 59-year career, her love of performing and her dim view of the White House. Judy Collins plays a sold-out concert at St. Cecilia Music Center on Thursday.

Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows

The Big List (Jan. 29-Feb. 4): Umphrey’s McGee, Judy Collins, Blues Traveler, George Clinton, Trampa, Cooper’s Glen, Winter Punk Fest

• January 29, 2018

Another big week of live music unfolds across West Michigan. Wrap up January and dive into February with national tour stops plus bracing shows featuring The Ragbirds, Watching for Foxes, The Lil Smokies, Anne Heaton, Bamfomania and more.

Features · Festivals · Upcoming shows · Videos

Albion’s The War and Treaty talks touring, their uplifting musical mission and playing Ann Arbor Folk Festival with John Prine

• January 24, 2018

It’s been a whirlwind year for the engaging and soulful Americana duo with more thrills to come: They’ll make their debut at the Ann Arbor Folk Festival, Bonnaroo and more in 2018. Learn more about that and their work in Nashville in this exclusive Local Spins interview.

Concert announcements · Local Spins at SXSW · Upcoming shows

Michigan House to host Traverse City, Ann Arbor benefits for return to SXSW; Rhiannon Giddens to play St. Cecilia for second time

• January 23, 2018

This Local Spins round-up focuses on Michigan House’s return to Austin for SXSW for the fourth year in a row and the latest booking for St. Cecilia’s Acoustic Cafe series, plus a groovy listing of recent buzzed-about West Michigan concert announcements.

Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows

The Big List (Jan. 22-28): Candlebox, The Cadillac Three, Børns, Sweet Water Warblers, Perrin Ice Jam, A2 Folk Festival

• January 22, 2018

The week of West Michigan concerts is heavy on local stars, too, with Cabildo, Watching for Foxes, Brian Morris, Jack Droppers, Jimmie Stagger, VAZUM and much more on the docket. See all of this week’s big shows, Under-the-Radar Picks and The Really Big List covering more than 100 venues. And see how you can win tickets to see Candlebox.

Artist Spotlights · Features · Upcoming shows

Grand Haven-bred Børns builds pop fervor for new album; thrilled to play first ‘hometown’ show in years

• January 19, 2018

The L.A.-based star and West Michigan native who plays a sold-out Grand Rapids concert next week talks to Local Spins about the ’70s influences on “Blue Madonna” and the excitement of being back home again. Revisit this hometown hero and watch videos of his latest singles.

Commentary · Looking for the Perfect Beat · Upcoming shows

Looking for the Perfect Beat: Before Odesza and Pretty Lights came groundbreaking pioneer Mark Farina and ‘Mushroom Jazz’

• January 17, 2018

Legendary DJ Mark Farina plays a much-buzzed-about show Saturday at Founders Brewing in Grand Rapids. He recently shared insights into his musical history — which began in Chicago — with Local Spins columnist Todd Ernst. Read the interview, listen to his music as part of the first Local Spins “Looking for the Perfect Beat” feature.

Album Releases · Artist Spotlights · Audio · Upcoming shows

Holland’s Marcel & Janelle set to release new EP during hopeful, ‘heartfelt’ show at Park Theatre

• January 16, 2018

Recently relocating to West Michigan from Denver, the indie-soul duo has turned the pain of a losing a child into a healing, uplifting experience through music, while aiding charities along the way. Read more about this couple’s journey and listen to their music at Local Spins.

Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows

Alt-blues rock’s Big Head Todd stays relevant; ready to prove live show legacy in Kalamazoo: The Local Spins Q&A

• January 16, 2018

The Colorado band entering its fourth decade after releasing its 11th studio album plays State Theatre on Thursday, with Luther Dickinson opening. Check out the Local Spins interview with Big Head Todd frontman Todd Park Mohr.

Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows

The Big List (Jan. 15-21): Dwight Yoakam, Mark Farina, Tower of Power, Chris Young, Black Veil Brides, Big Head Todd, Squirrel Nut Zippers, Dirty Heads

• January 15, 2018

The week starts with a special MLK celebration and continues with McKinley James, Way Down Wanderers, The Dan Band, Kevin Olusola, Hi-Ker, Cheeze Weez, Josh Rose and much more. And see how you can win tickets to shows at 20 Monroe Live this week.

Festivals · Upcoming shows

Winter Wheat set to heat up season with more than a dozen acts at all-day Grand Rapids fest

• January 9, 2018

The ninth annual fundraiser for the Wheatland Music Organization will take over The Intersection on Saturday with sets by Joshua Davis, Benzie Playboys, Gasoline Gypsies with Native Howl, Jimmie Stagger and others. Get the lowdown on this beloved event and the full schedule.

Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows

Big List (Jan. 8-14): Avenged Sevenfold, Budos Band, Tunde Olaniran, Winter Wheat, Rebirth Brass Band, Beer City Music Festival, The Werks, Tribal Seeds

• January 8, 2018

The week gets started with a groovy “Louder Than Words” panel on rock, then keeps rolling with Peat in the Creel, a Samsara Showcase, Far Shores, Weezil Malone and so much more. Take a gander at the robust list of intriguing “Under-the-Radar Picks” and check out the ticket giveaway of the week.

Concert announcements · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts · Upcoming shows

Hollywood Makeout, Jake Kershaw, The Founding, Yolonda Lavender, Desmond Jones, ConvoTronics, Major Murphy to perform at Jammie Awards for first time

• January 2, 2018

February’s biggest night for local music will also boast sets by popular acts such as May Erlewine, Organissimo, Hannah Rose & The GravesTones, Afro Zuma and many more. See the full roster of performers and listen to the most recent Local Spins on WYCE podcast featuring a bevy of Jammie nominees.

Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows

The Big List (Jan. 2-7): Luke Winslow King, The Howlers and Shane Tripp, Jocelyn and Chris Arndt, Tyler Hilton, plus tributes to Elvis Presley, Tom Petty, GNR

• January 2, 2018

It’s a triumphant start to 2018: Local acts rule The Big List, with The Hacky Turtles, Hey Marco!, Dave Palmer, Bruce Matthews and a bunch of “Under-the-Radar” gems, plus the Winter Jam tour stopping at Van Andel Arena and a Boy Band revue at 20 Monroe Live. And see how you can win tickets to the Elvis tribute and Harper & Midwest Kind at the Tip Top Deluxe.

Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows

The Big List (Dec. 26-31): Greta Van Fleet, The Accidentals, Seth Bernard, Billy Strings, Mustard Plug, Tom Petty Tribute, Joe Hertler, Desmond Jones, New Year’s Eve hoopla

• December 26, 2017

Bid adieu to 2017 and usher in the new year with gargantuan shows and parties hosted by some of the Michigan music scene’s biggest stars. And there are big concerts leading up to the big night, too. See the full roster in the Big List Concert Guide.

Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows

The Big List Concert Guide (Dec. 18-24): Minnesota, Cirque de Noel, Mark Lavengood, Potato Moon, Kari Lynch, Speak Easy

• December 18, 2017

The week leading up to Christmas gets rolling with EyeCandy and Antighost, plus there are shows featuring The Bootstrap Boys, Reggie, Mary Rademacher, Great Black Night and much more. And see how you can win tickets to a Michael Jackson tribute, courtesy of Local Spins.

Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows

Sultry, haunting singer-songwriter Jetty Rae revels in Airstream road life, returns home to Michigan for holiday concerts

• December 15, 2017

Raised in Charlevoix, Jetty Rae brings her musical passion to northern Michigan this month and “sharing of struggles” with her fans. Read the back story about this unique, Michigan-bred artist, watch her videos.

Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows

The Big List (Dec. 11-17): Matisyahu, Ginuwine, Mannheim Steamroller, Bill Kirchen, People’s Blues of Richmond, Granger Smith

• December 11, 2017

Chevelle kicked off the week with a bang, but there’s plenty of diversity – nationally and locally – crammed into this week’s Big List Concert Guide, along with some holiday-themed shows. And see how you can win tickets to see Matisyahu.

Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows

The Big List (Dec. 11-17): Matisyahu, Mannheim Steamroller, Bill Kirchen, People’s Blues of Richmond, Ginuwine, Granger Smith

• December 11, 2017

Chevelle kicks off the week, but there’s plenty of diversity – nationally and locally – crammed into this week’s Big List Concert Guide. And see how you can win tickets to see Matisyahu.

Announcements · Kalamazoo · Upcoming shows · Videos

Kalamazoo’s Less is More set for final show as band founders move to Los Angeles; name change on horizon

• December 7, 2017

Electro-pop’s Less is More aims to continue broadening its musical universe as it departs West Michigan. The band plays a farewell show at Bell’s Brewery on Saturday night. Get the back story, check out a video.

Concert announcements · Upcoming shows

Bela Fleck & Abigail Washburn, Asleep at the Wheel added to St. Cecilia Music Center’s Acoustic Cafe series

• December 5, 2017

The annual folk series gets a big boost with these iconic acts in 2018. St. Cecilia also will host another jazz show: A February CD-release concert for jazz pianist John Proulx. Get all the details and ticket prices at Local Spins, and check out music from the featured acts.

Artist Spotlights · Audio · Upcoming shows · Videos

Traverse City’s Soul Patch uncorks ‘conscious groove’ music with ‘love, positivity, laughter’

• December 5, 2017

The long-running northern Michigan band with a jam, funk, rock and bluegrass vibe makes its Local Spins Wednesdays debut this week at Grand Rapids’ SpeakEZ Lounge. Get the back story on Soul Patch, listen to the band’s music, watch the videos.

Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows

The Big List (Dec. 4-10): Katy Perry, Suicideboys, Joe Hertler, Snails, Damien Escobar, Scarface, Broccoli Samurai, Tab Benoit

• December 4, 2017

A week heavy on EDM also features Amy Grant & Michael W. Smith, Jon Pardi, Soul Patch, The Concussions, Luke Winslow King, The Secret Sisters, Juanita Stein and much more. Get the full concert lowdown, plus intriguing Under-the-Radar Picks, in The Big List Concert Guide.

Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows

The Big List (Nov. 27-Dec. 3): Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Over The Rhine, Brett Young, UV Hippo, Tommy Emmanuel, Guttermouth

• November 27, 2017

The week also features the Brad Mehldau Trio, Fall Flannel Folk Fest, Kris Delmhorst, the return of The Outer Vibe, Asamu Johnson & The Associates of the Blues and much more. Browse all the live music selections for the week, plus the intriguing Under-the-Radar Picks.

Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts · Upcoming shows · Videos

Fall Flannel Folk Festival to showcase singer-songwriters as part of ‘Giving Tuesday’

• November 24, 2017

The Tuesday benefit for WGVU at SpeakEZ Lounge will feature performances by half-dozen solo artists, including Michael Riley, who was featured on this week’s Local Spins on WYCE. Get the lowdown and listen to the full radio podcast featuring new local and regional music and an in-studio performance by Billy Strings and his band.

Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows

The Big List (Nov. 20-26): A Perfect Circle, Greensky Bluegrass, Bro Safari, Billy Strings, Hannah Rose & The GravesTones, Dacia Bridges

• November 20, 2017

There’s plenty to be thankful for this week as the live music scene explodes around the holidays with special shows, both national and local, starting with a Monday jazz show. And check The Big List for your chance to win tickets to Friday’s Billy Strings show.

Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows · Videos

Kalamazoo’s Yolonda Lavender strikes balance between roles as poet, artist and activist

• November 20, 2017

The singer’s third album, “Back 4 The 1st Time,” unfurls a positive message through R&B, poetry and hip hop. Read the back story about this compelling artist who’s also head of Kalamazoo’s Black Arts & Cultural Center and listen to her music.

Album reviews · Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows · Videos

Joshua Davis wraps up Michigan tour while promoting new album in ‘really big way’

• November 16, 2017

The Traverse City singer-songwriter and ‘Voice’ star has released the Steve Berlin-produced ‘The Way Back Home’ and will play The Pyramid Scheme in Grand Rapids on Saturday. He appears for Local Spins on WYCE 88.1 FM at 11 a.m. Friday. Check out a review of his new album and listen to new songs.

Artist Spotlights · Kalamazoo · Upcoming shows

Kalamazoo’s The Founding sheds Blarney Castle moniker to reflect ‘new style’ of Celtic music with release of first full-length album

• November 14, 2017

The young, award-winning, up-and-coming West Michigan band already has become a staple at top-tier Irish music festivals and has honed a unique sound for its Celtic-driven music. It plays a Grand Rapids CD-release show Thursday night. Learn more about The Founding and watch videos of its songs.

Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows

The Big List (Nov. 13-19): Dubloadz, Styx, Joshua Davis, Front Country, Descendents, Christian McBride, Wine, Beer & Food Festival

• November 13, 2017

Odesza starts the week with a sold-out show, but there’s more: Kerosene Stars, The Ragbirds, Brubeck Brothers, The Contenders, The Krank Daddies, Conklin Ceili Band and a Simon & Garfunkel tribute. And see how you can win free tickets to the mammoth International Wine, Beer and Food Festival.

Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows · Videos

From Grand Rapids to Scotland: Singer-songwriter Rachel Zylstra’s adventure brings her back to West Michigan

• November 9, 2017

Now based in Edinburgh, the pop-pianist plays a homecoming show tonight (Thursday) at Ladies Literary Club, her first Grand Rapids show since 2012 and a chance for fans to hear songs from her most recent album. Read the back story, listen to Zylstra’s music at Local Spins.

Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows

The Big List (Nov. 6-12): Borgore, Aaron Lewis, New Found Glory, Mister Heavenly, Joshua Davis, Needtobreathe

• November 6, 2017

Jai Wolf, The Yawpers, Chris Robinson Brotherhood, Fareed Haque and tributes to Tom Petty, Joni Mitchell and Neil Young help pump up the live music slate. And see this week’s ticket giveaway at The Intersection.

Festivals · Kalamazoo · Upcoming shows · Videos

Airiel, Dead Leaf Echo, Whimsical top bill Saturday for Kalamashoegazer 11 fest

• November 1, 2017

Variety rules this popular festival being held at Bell’s in Kalamazoo, with national and regional shoegaze, dream pop and noise bands taking center stage. See the full schedule, check out videos of some featured acts.

Festivals · Upcoming shows

Lamp Light Music Festival set for sixth year of illuminating creativity, culture, community

• October 31, 2017

The unique Grand Rapids house concert festival will showcase 29 acts over three days in three Eastown neighborhood homes, spotlighting emerging and well-known acts from across the region. Get the lowdown on this weekend’s festival and a schedule at Local Spins.

Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows

The Big List (Oct. 30-Nov. 5): Janet Jackson, Periphery, Animals As Leaders, Chris Stapleton, Jeff Daniels, Regina Spektor, Lamp Light Music Fest, Colin Hay, The Used

• October 30, 2017

Irma Thomas, Blind Boys of Alabama and Preservation Hall Legacy Quintet jumpstart the week of live music in West Michigan, but this week’s live music picks at Local Spins also feature Cold Hard Cash, Kalamashoegazer Fest, Elephant Revival, Jake Kershaw and some must-see local showcases.