Winter arrived in Michigan with a snowy bang over Thanksgiving weekend, but bands from Kalamazoo to Traverse City heated up stages in spite of the weather, including Desmond Jones’ traditional day-before-Thanksgiving romp. View the photos at Local Spins.
Michigan Album Reviews: Spencer LaJoye, Caitlin Cusack, Lafayette Gunter Jr., Billy King
With the holidays fast approaching, Local Spins recaps several new releases by Michigan artists — not only to showcase their varied music, but give you ideas for the music lovers on your shopping list. Listen to tracks from all of the releases.
Emerging Artists to Watch · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts
Michigan Music: 1000 Watt Prophets, Billy King, Rachel Curtis, Mystique & more
The Thanksgiving weekend edition of the Local Spins Michigan Music Showcase boasts fresh tracks by a diverse set of artists, plus some enduring music from Jack White and Organissimo. Listen to the full radio show podcast.
Audio · Detroit Lions · Playlists · Upcoming shows
Jack White Rocks the Detroit Lions: The Ultimate Local Spins Playlists for Thanksgiving
As Detroit rock icon Jack White prepares to play the halftime show at Ford Field for today’s Thanksgiving Day tilt between the Lions and the Green Bay Packers, Local Spins unleashes two Jack White-centric playlists for the ages.
Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows · Videos
Organissimo turns 25, ready to unfurl its B3-fueled, soulful jazz in Traverse City, Ann Arbor
The soulful jazz trio formed by organist Jim Alfredson and drummer Randy Marsh will play two star-studded shows to celebrate its birthday. Learn about Organissimo’s history and listen to its music at Local Spins.
Announcements · Festivals · Photos · Special Offers
Local Spins 2026 Calendars: Toasting Michigan musicians in vibrant photos, plus festival dates
They’re back and for 2026, they’re more resplendent than ever. The Local Spins 2026 Calendars are photo-laden Michigan-centric keepsakes that make stellar holiday gifts. Order yours today because supplies are limited.
Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows · Videos
K. Jones & The Benzie Playboys two-step to 25th anniversary celebration of zydeco charm
N. Michigan’s Benzie Playboys, the state’s leading purveyor of Cajun & zydeco music, marks a quarter-century of dance-inspiring revelry Wednesday in Frankfort. Local Spins digs into its remarkable history.
Concert reviews · Videos · Weekend Photo Gallery
Brett Dennen, Djangophonique, Luke Winslow-King, Michigan Songwriters: Concert Photos
Top-shelf songwriting from Brett Dennen, Luke Winslow-King and others — along with stellar musicianship — took the spotlight at several concerts across West Michigan over the weekend. Plus, check out videos and photos from the jam-packed ‘Laurel Canyon II’ tribute night.
Local Spins’ Top 5 Concerts of ’25: What were your favorite shows & albums of the year?
To heat things up for our upcoming year-end round-up of best concerts and albums of 2025, we’re revealing the Top 5 concerts based on reader counts of concert reviews, and asking readers to submit their favorites, too. Those that do will be entered into a drawing for a Local Spins gift pack.
Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts · Upcoming shows · Videos
From Michigan to Morocco, Luke Winslow-King embraces diversity as solo tour hits home state
On a Michigan tour with a new album on the way, Luke Winslow-King reveals the back story about a special new world music project, his love of his home state and more with Local Spins, which also debuts new tracks by Major Murphy, The JR Band, Bob James abd more Mitten State artists. Listen to this week’s radio show podcast at Local Spins.
Local Grins: Matt Sharpe’s Comedy Therapy, Thanksgiving Week Funnies, Star Tour Stops
The November edition of the Local Grins comedy roundup puts a spotlight on the healing power of comedy and a rundown of upcoming can’t-miss shows around the region.
Audio · Playlists · Upcoming shows · Videos
The Doors: The Ultimate Playlist at Local Spins as curtain drops on The Insane Theatre
The music of The Doors has endured for more than a half-century. So, Local Spins Wednesdays at SpeakEZ Lounge presents The Insane Theatre tribute to The Doors tonight — the perfect opportunity to unveil our Top 12 playlist of the iconic band’s most memorable songs.
Artist Spotlights · Audio · Emerging Artists to Watch · Videos
Empress Eyes embraces emotional energy, vulnerability with new dream pop EP
The Grand Rapids artist Empress Eyes who has released several singles this year talks about her music, her live performances and more in an interview with Local Spins. Plus, watch her latest music video.
Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows · Videos
N. Michigan author, musician, traveler Robert Downes to bring stories, music to Traverse City
The co-founder of Northern Express and prolific author Robert Downes will unfurl his multi-media “Stories & Songs” show at City Opera House on Thursday. The back story at Local Spins.
Concert reviews · Videos · Weekend Photo Gallery
Joe Hertler, Hacky Turtles hit home run at Big Room, plus Thomas Dolby, SoDown & more
Saturday night’s benefit for Sullivan Field drew a robust crowd for Joe Hertler and The Hacky Turtles. Plus, view photos from tour stops by Thomas Dolby, SoDown, Bobby Watson and YDG, with regional favorites Ghost Bunnies, Jake Simmons and more in our concert photo gallery roundup.
Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows · Videos
Tunesmith Brett Dennen painting inspirational, unique live shows as tour hits Michigan
The California folk-pop artist next week plays The Big Room in Grand Rapids and The Ark in Ann Arbor, with plans to display paintings on stage to add to the fan experience. The Local Spins interview.
Album reviews · Audio · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts
Michigan Album Reviews: Accidentals, Tony Halchak, Greensky Bluegrass, Schrock Bros
Today, Local Spins not only reviews new albums by Michigan artists, but presents this week’s edition of the Michigan Music Showcase featuring the latest tracks from 11 Mitten State bands and solo acts. Check out the reviews, listen to the radio show podcast and see where some of these artists will be performing.
Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows · Videos
Anne Wilson straddling country and Christian music as ‘Stars’ tour hits Michigan
Inspired by her late brother, Anne Wilson has quickly cultivated a devoted — and often young — audience for her ‘faith-driven’ music. She plays Detroit on Saturday and a sold-out show in Grand Rapids on Sunday. Learn more about Wilson and watch two music videos at Local Spins.
Concert announcements · Festivals · Videos
Amos Lee, Dawes, The Crane Wives to light up January’s Ann Arbor Folk Festival
The Ark’s iconic festival announced its Saturday lineup for 2026 headed by Amos Lee, with a change planned for Friday: a full concert by a headlining artist to be revealed next week. The details, ticket information and videos at Local Spins.
Artist Spotlights · Emerging Artists to Watch · Upcoming shows
At 18, emerging W. Michigan country star Tyler Gitchel builds on family tradition, storytelling
Howard City’s Tyler Gitchel already has opened for several national artists and released several singles in 2025. Get his back story and listen to one of his original songs at Local Spins
Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows
Don Julin’s fresh trio to tour Michigan with ‘monster’ players, ‘Weather Channel-grass’ vibe
The renowned Traverse City mandolinist Don Julin has formed a new super-trio with bassist Tom Knific and guitarist Hayes Griffin, with upcoming shows at The Alluvion, The Ark and beyond. The back story at Local Spins.
Concert reviews · Weekend Photo Gallery
Ryan Hurd, Dogs in a Pile, Charlie Hunter, Armchair Boogie and Jackson’s GIG: Photos
Country singer Ryan Hurd, jam band Dogs in a Pile, Here Come the Mummies and more filled up a weekend of live music that also included the second annual GIG conference in Jackson. Browse the photo galleries.
Iceman (and Concerts) Cometh: Riley Green, plus November’s Must-See Concert Picks
Team Local Spins takes on Traverse City’s Iceman Cometh Challenge bike race today, after country star Riley Green fired up Grand Rapids. Browse show photos and check out our November concert picks.
Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts · Upcoming shows
With relatable new album, The Hacky Turtles aim to ‘let loose’ at final concert of 2025
The band will join Joe Hertler & The Rainbow Seekers for a Sullivan Field benefit show at The Big Room. The story and this week’s Local Spins radio podcast with new tracks by Michigan artists, including Tony Halchak, The Accidentals, Kate Hinote, Justin Avdek, Lost Magic, Chloe Kimes and more.
Albums that Changed the World · Artist Spotlights · Audio · Playlists
Detroit-area singer-songwriter Kate Hinote: ‘Albums That Changed My World’
The Kate Hinote Trio returns to Grand Rapids to play SpeakEZ Lounge on Friday. Today, Kate Hinote reveals the albums that have influenced her the most. Get her back story, listen to songs from those recordings and learn more about Friday’s tour stop.
GIG Conference Take 2: Showcasing music’s visual side and rocking Jackson, too
The second annual ‘GIG: The Art of Michigan Music’ conference takes place Saturday at Art 634 in Jackson with displays by 24 visual artists and concert photographers, as well as performances by three Michigan rock bands. The lowdown at Local Spins.
Artist Spotlights · Audio · Upcoming shows · Videos
The Olllam brings intoxicating Celtic flair, instrumental prowess, rare U.S. tour to GR
The all-star, transatlantic band The Olllam — featuring Michigan musicians Michael Shimmin, Joe Hettinga and Joe Dart and the U.K.’s John McSherry, Ross Ainslie and Sean O’Meara — plays The Pyramid Scheme on Thursday and Detroit’s Magic Stick on Friday. Learn more about the band and listen to their music at Local Spins.
All Time Low uncorks high-energy caper of joy & nostalgia; Josh Ritter shows off ‘Wild Ways’
Sunday’s tour stops by artists with new albums featured pop-punk’s All Time Low at GLC Live at 20 Monroe and singer-songwriter Josh Ritter at St. Cecilia. The recaps and photos at Local Spins.
Concert reviews · Videos · Weekend Photo Gallery
Weekend Warriors: The Bootstrap Boys, Kip Moore, Cyclops, Greensky Bluegrass and more
Musical contrasts were everywhere when it comes to West Michigan concerts to close out October and kick off November. From bluegrass heroes Greensky Bluegrass and Americana’s The Rebel Eves to heavy metal’s Mushroomhead, Local Spins recaps the week in scintillating images.
‘The Boys are Back’: Greensky Bluegrass romps in first of two hometown birthday spectacles
Dressed appropriately for their silver anniversary, Greensky Bluegrass revved up Kalamazoo fans at Wings Event Center on Friday with two sets featuring guests Sam Bush and Lindsay Lou. The Local Spins recap and photos.
Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows · Videos
Josh Ritter ready to awe Grand Rapids by unfurling ‘fun rock ‘n’ roll with lots of words’
The celebrated singer-songwriter brings the tour behind his new album to St. Cecilia Music Center for a special 5 p.m. Sunday show. The Local Spins Q&A, with two videos featuring music from the new record.
Album Releases · Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts
Greensky Bluegrass breathes ‘new life’ into classics with star-splashed ‘XXV’ album
Local Spins spotlights the Kalamazoo bluegrass heroes who celebrate their 25th anniversary with a new record and two hometown shows. Mike Devol from Greensky Bluegrass talks about the new record, Billy Strings and more. Plus, this week’s Michigan Music Showcase podcast with new tracks from Caitlin Cusack, Lady Ace Boogie, Jack Droppers, Izzy Reign and more.
Upcoming shows · Venue Spotlight · Videos
The Stage at The Corner: Muskegon’s newest venue offers punk, metal, musicals, movies
The ‘Destination Live Music’ video series spotlights The Stage at The Corner in partnership with Local Spins. Learn more about the Muskegon venue and see what’s on tap for this unique building, including Friday’s special Halloween show.
Albums that Changed the World · Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows · Videos
Amid ‘incredible’ 2025, Americana’s Rebel Eves bring inspirational release tour to SpeakEZ
Tonight, The Rebel Eves super-group makes its Local Spins Wednesdays debut at Grand Rapids’ SpeakEZ Lounge. Get a recap of the band’s year and upcoming Michigan tour, with stops in Ann Arbor, East Lansing and Leland. Plus, band member Grace Theisen reveals the three albums that have influenced her most.
Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows · Videos
Greensky Bluegrass to mark 25th anniversary with all-star homecoming stand in Kalamazoo
Coinciding with release of its ‘XXV’ album, the bluegrass powerhouse plays two nights at Wings Event Center starting on Halloween. Part 1 of our conversation with Greensky Bluegrass bassist Mike Devol.
Albums that Changed the World · Audio
Producer Josh Kaufman: ‘Albums That Changed My World,’ from LA Big Band to Cameron Blake
Josh Kaufman, producer and owner of Grand Rapids’ Local Legend Recording, reveals the three albums that have influenced him the most. Learn more about Kaufman and listen to tracks from all of his selections at Local Spins.
Concert reviews · Videos · Weekend Photo Gallery
Concert Roundup: Kathleen Edwards, Neon Trees, John Morgan, Lindsay Lou and more
Kathleen Edwards, Neon Trees, John Morgan, Lindsay Lou, Lower Leisure Class, Candid Antics, The Local Commuters and Garbage Angel highlighted the week of live music from Kalamazoo to Grand Rapids to Traverse City, recapped in Local Spins photos.
Artist Spotlights · Audio · Upcoming shows
Michigan’s Gemini Moon forging ahead with expansive, lush alt-folk and indie-rock
Led by FlyLiteGemini’s Joe Chamberlin and singer-bassist Casmira Draconid, the Southwest Michigan-based group is touring the state and set to release several new singles. Get the back story on Gemini Moon and listen to one of their songs.
Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts · Upcoming shows
Candid Antics unleashing groove-filled, energetic ‘party fusion’ with sophomore album
Local Spins spotlights the hot Grand Rapids jazz fusion band, which hosts its album-release show Saturday. And listen to this week’s Michigan Music Showcase podcast that debuts tracks from several Michigan artists, including May Erlewine, Silverstiles, 84 Tigers, Alex Austin, Von Kaiser and more.
‘Magical’ Mandolinist Chris Thile plays praises to Bach, autumn and ghost stories
The award-winning musician returned to St. Cecilia Music Center on Thursday for a special evening that combined the somber with the upbeat. The review and photos at Local Spins.
Breaking music news · Local Spins on WYCE · Top 10 Lists
May Erlewine, Hannah Laine top roster of most-played Michigan artists on WYCE in 2025
As WYCE (88.1 FM) wraps its Fall Fund Drive, Local Spins asked the station that plays the most Michigan music to reveal the local and regional acts getting the most airplay. View the Top 10 artists and Top 10 tracks for the year thus far, then pitch in to WYCE.
Albums that Changed the World · Audio
Hip hop star Steven Malcolm’s ‘Albums that Changed the World’: Marley, Michael, Lil Wayne
The acclaimed, faith-based Grand Rapids artist has made waves with his inspiring storytelling, racking up more than 75 million streams. Today, he reveals the recordings that have impacted him most.
Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows
Local Commuters primed for shredding ‘great time’ at mid-week, rock ’n’ roll country show
The alt-country and rock band that released an EP this summer makes its Local Spins Wednesdays debut at SpeakEZ Lounge. Today, frontman Devin Weber opens up about his favorite rock artists and more.
Cage the Elephant gets ‘a little closer’ to Grand Rapids with exuberant Sunday tour stop
A sold-out GLC Live at 20 Monroe was ‘on fire’ when Cage the Elephant returned to the venue to produce what it called one of the best shows of its tour. The Local Spins review and photos.
Concert reviews · Weekend Photo Gallery
Lawrence oozes soul, May emits ‘Good Feeling,’ Tauk rocks, Cal in Red pops, Craig Finn extols
From Lawrence’s soul-pop at GLC Live, Tauk’s fusion at Elevation and ATliens wild EDM at The Intersection to more intimate affairs at Wealthy Theatre (May Erlewine), Bell’s (Craig Finn), SpeakEZ (Evidence Jazz) and Glow Hall (Cal in Red), it was an upbeat weekend of live music. Get the recaps and browse the photos at Local Spins.
West Michigan’s Musical Halloween Haunts & Creepy, Blood-Curdling Playlists for the Ages
Halloween concerts and parties are revving up as October descends into eerie spookiness. Here’s a roster of frighteningly fun shows with musical treats to consider. Plus, we have a passel of playlists to scare the pants off you.
Album Releases · Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts
Evidence Jazz embracing the ‘unexpected’ with all original material on new album
The Grand Rapids super-group led by Michael Doyle plays SpeakEZ Lounge on Sunday with a new album on the way. Plus, this week’s radio show podcast with fresh tracks by Michigan artists, including Greg Nagy, Steven Malcolm, Don Was, Luke Winslow-King, Greensky Bluegrass and more.
Album Releases · Breaking music news · Upcoming shows
Around the Horn: Billy Strings & Third Man, All Time Low’s silence, Traverse City’s fall flurry
Today’s music news box score: Billy Strings is releasing a Third Man Records compilation, All Time Low — with Michigan stops ahead — is battling some health issues, Traverse City boasts riveting fall concerts and West Michigan has several intriguing benefit shows on the horizon.
Commentary · Local Spins Rewind
In Praise of Listening Rooms: Tunesmith Josh Rose @ The Musicians’ Soundboard
10 years ago to the day, West Michigan’s Josh Rose voiced his plea for no-frills, no-texting, no-talking milieus at concerts as vital for performers and fans. He still hankers for that. Local Spins Rewind revisits that column with some updates a decade later.
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