Led by Zeeland’s Jennifer and Jared Adams, the band spotlighted its deeply personal music for Local Spins on WYCE, which also featured new tracks by J.Rob, Ada LeAnn, Dynaflo, Fiona Dickinson, The Hacky Turtles and more. Get the back story on Annagail, watch a documentary about the band’s arduous journey and listen to this week’s radio show podcast.
Breaking music news · Upcoming shows
Music News: Rockford’s Got Talent, Eagles play Michigan, Caroline Jones at Pinnacle Center
January’s roundup covers a lot of territory, from a weekend competition to the return of a Hudsonville fundraiser to news about a Michigan tour stop for The Eagles. The lowdown at Local Spins.
Kanola Band channels New Orleans vibe for the No. 1 spot on Local Spins Hot Top 5 Chart
The debut release from the Kalamazoo band fronted by Benje Daneman nudged out The Bootstrap Boys and Hacky Turtles to top all local and regional albums in airplay at WYCE-FM for December. Listen to tracks from all of the Hot Top 5 albums at Local Spins.
Albums that Changed the World · Audio · Playlists
Albums That Changed My World: Mandolinist Brian Oberlin picks Fleck, The Dillards & more
The first “Albums That Changed the World” feature for 2022 stars Full Cord bluegrass mandolinist Brian Oberlin, who reveals influences with an acoustic, bluegrass and classical bent. Check out his selections and listen to the music at Local Spins.
Audio · Features · Top 10 Lists
Laura Rain, The Accidentals, Major Murphy boast the top regional songs of 2021
Based on airplay at Grand Rapids’ WYCE-FM, the Local Spins Hot Top 10 list of most-played local and regional songs of the year covers soul, rock, rap, folk and electronic music. Listen to all of the Top 10 tracks at Local Spins.
Features · Venue Spotlight · Weekend Photo Gallery
Ringing in a new year: DAAC ‘thrilled’ for 2022 at new site, plus Kalamazoo New Year’s Fest
After finally reopening in a new Grand Rapids location this fall, The DAAC staged a New Year’s Eve show that was an all-ages celebration of community and the arts. Get the back story, plus photos of the new space, Kalamazoo’s New Year’s Fest and Motion City Soundtrack at The Intersection.
Breaking music news · Festivals · Summer Festivals
Michigan Music Festivals for 2022: Dozens of ‘magical’ celebrations aim for a summer return
While COVID concerns remain, more than 50 Michigan festivals plan to resume later this year, including the uber-popular, the traditional and some new events, too. View the comprehensive list at Local Spins.
Features · Top 12 Stories Countdown · Videos
Local Spins’ No. 1 Story of 2021: Billy Strings wins Grammy Award for best bluegrass album
The acclaimed Michigan-bred guitarist’s remarkable rise to stardom and acclaim topped all other news items as the most-read story of the year. And he’s since been nominated for two more Grammy Awards, making him Local Spins’ “Newsmaker of the Year.” Revisit the story and get an update on Billy Strings’ other attention-getting milestones from 2021.
Playlists · Top 12 Stories Countdown · Videos
The best COVID song parodies and a playlist for the apocalypse: Top Stories of 2021 (No. 2)
For the second year in a row, humorous tunes about the pandemic — fueled by creative musicians — earned robust attention from readers. It’s No. 2 in our 2021 countdown and Local Spins’ No.1 story of all-time. View the videos, plus listen to “songs for the apocalypse,” a roster of COVID-inspired songs by Michigan musicians and a playlist tribute to health care workers.
Breaking music news · Upcoming shows · Venue Spotlight
GLC Live at 20 Monroe to continue as concert venue in downtown Grand Rapids
Despite its pending sale, current owner Greg Gilmore tells Local Spins that Live Nation will keep operating the concert hall as it has since early 2017. Learn more in today’s update.
In Memoriam · Local Spins Rewind · Top 12 Stories Countdown
Top 2021 Stories (No. 3): Musicians mourn death of GR blues guitarist Junior Valentine
Iconic West Michigan musician and singer Junior Valentine passed away on March 1 at age 66, leaving behind a legacy of polished performances and musical mentoring that touched a host of lives. Revisit the memorials to the beloved guitarist in the No. 3 story of the year.
Concert announcements · Upcoming shows
Resurgent COVID cancels Billy Strings, Desmond Jones & other New Year’s week shows
At least 10 West Michigan concerts scheduled for this week have been canceled due to COVID concerns, making it a relatively quiet celebration of New Year’s. Get the lowdown on what’s happening and what’s not at Local Spins.
Concert reviews · Photos · Top 12 Stories Countdown
Emmylou Harris, Los Lobos enchant fans in pairing at Meijer Gardens: Top Stories (No. 4)
The final night of the legendary acts’ joint touring run on Aug. 8 delighted a sold-out crowd at Meijer Gardens. The review was No. 4 in Local Spins countdown of top 2021. Revisit the recap and photos from the memorable concert.
Best Music of the Year · Features · Videos
Best Music and Concerts of the Year 2021: The Musicians’ and Readers’ Picks
Last week, Local Spins writers piped in with their “best of” lists for 2021. Today, some West Michigan musicians and Local Spins readers reveal their favorite releases and concerts of the year, from Allison Russell, Nigel Hall and Jon Batiste to Billy Strings, Stratos and Michigan Rattlers. Check out all of the picks and listen to the music at Local Spins.
Festivals · Top 12 Stories Countdown
Top Stories of 2021 (No. 5): Ann Arbor Folk Festival’s Michigan tribute to John Prine
Songwriting legend John Prine’s robust legacy pushed this January story about Ann Arbor Folk Festival’s virtual tribute with May Erlewine, Joshua Davis and more to the Top 5. Revisit the story and Local Spins’ festival coverage from January of this year.
Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts
The Bootstrap Boys’ new EP, plus Christmas at Critter’s, FlyLiteGemini: Local Spins on WYCE
Local Spins not only debuted new regional music and recapped 2021 highlights Friday, but guest-hosted Thursday’s “GR Live” for WYCE with Lexi Adams and Lucy Lowis. Listen to the podcasts today at Local Spins and browse a photo gallery from The Bootstrap Boys’ EP-release show earlier this week.
Special Offers · Top 12 Stories Countdown
Top 2021 Stories (No. 6): ‘Vaccinated’ bracelets display concertgoers’ immunization status
The late May rollout of these colorful Local Spins bracelets captivated vaccinated music lovers attending summer concerts and festivals, not to mention readers, too. Learn more in the No. 6 story of the year, with new “boosted” bracelets now available as well.
Albums that Changed the World · Summer Festivals · Top 12 Stories Countdown
Greensky Bluegrass revs up Shagbark, reveals influential albums: Top Stories of 2021 (No. 7)
No. 7 in our countdown is a combo affair: The much-ballyhooed story of Greensky Bluegrass’ debut at Shagbark Farm in July and mandolinist Paul Hoffman’s picks for ‘Albums that Changed His World.’ Revisit these stories and browse a photo gallery from the mini-festival.
Summer Concerts · Top 12 Stories Countdown
Top Stories of 2021: Grand Haven’s waterfront stadium hosts new summer series (No. 8)
Pent-up demand for live music propelled the announcement of a new Friday night summer concert series in Grand Haven to the No. 8 spot in Local Spins’ countdown of 2021’s most-read stories. Revisit the June article and get an update on plans for the 2022 series.
GRCC’s Jonathan Marshall adds to ‘virtual revolution’ with concerts in unusual locales
The guitarist and instructor’s “Familiar Places” concerts have unfurled at places ranging from a jewelry store to a printing shop, available for viewing by fans online amid the COVID pandemic. Get the back story, along with a link to watch a video of his performances.
Features · Top 12 Stories Countdown
The Rolling Stones rock on despite ‘gut punch’ of Watts’ death: Top Stories Countdown (No. 9)
No. 9 on our list of top Local Spins stories of 2021 is our revealing interview with Rolling Stones keyboardist Chuck Leavell, who talked about the iconic band’s U.S. tour which revved up Detroit in November. Revisit the feature, with links to Local Spins’ review of that Ford Field show.
Features · Top 12 Stories Countdown
Top Stories of 2021: Meijer Gardens sells shows out quickly, summer concerts return in 2021
The No. 10 story in our countdown revisits the excitement of a summer slate of 2021 concerts following a quiet, COVID-impaired 2020 — from the return of Meijer Gardens’ amphitheater to shows across the region.
Concert reviews · Weekend Photo Gallery
Weekend Concert Recap: Mustard Plug, The Go Rounds, Watkins Family Hour, Bradley Sinclair
Holiday shows, tours of different stripes and a bittersweet Go Rounds run unfurled on stages across West Michigan. Check out the concert recaps, more than a half-dozen photo galleries and a video at Local Spins.
Best Music of the Year · Features · Videos
Best Music of the Year 2021: The Local Spins Critics’ Picks
As always, the annual flood of new music can be overwhelming. But Local Spins writers have sifted through these releases to make their picks for best albums and songs of the year, including Silk Sonic, Kingfish Ingram, Bo Burnham, Deafheaven and more, plus local artists such as Patty PerShayla, Lazy Genius, Seth Bernard and Amoura. Enjoy.
Local Spins Rewind · Top 12 Stories Countdown
Top Stories of 2021: Iconic Rainbow Music closes doors after 40-plus years (No. 11)
Our “top stories of the year” countdown continues with No. 11: Our profile of Pete Bardolph and John Gelderloos, who closed their Grand Rapids instrument and gear store after a long and fruitful run. Revisit the story and browse a photo gallery at Local Spins.
Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts · Videos
Decades of energetic, joyful, skank-inducing ska: Mustard Plug celebrates 30 years
Frontman David Kirchgessner reflects on the Grand Rapids ska band’s legacy for Local Spins on WYCE, which also debuted new tracks by Cal in Red, Annagail, Travis Atkinson and more. Learn more about Mustard Plug and its Friday night anniversary show, plus listen to this week’s radio show podcast.
Local Spins Rewind · Top 12 Stories Countdown
Top Stories of 2021 Countdown: Super-group covers ‘Respect’ for Women’s Day (No. 12)
The countdown of Local Spins’ top stories of the year begins with this all-female March tribute to icon Aretha Franklin which featured singers and musicians from across the state. Watch the video, revisit the story.
Album Reviews: The Verve Pipe, Kanola, Joshua Rilko, Vert Terms, Saajtak, The Wire Monkeys
In the midst of the holiday rush, Local Spins today spotlights six new releases by Michigan artists that deliver thought-provoking, compelling and sometimes surprising music. Read the reviews, listen to the music.
Albums that Changed the World · Audio · Playlists
Albums that Changed My World: Guitarist Mike Dodge’s devotion to McLaughlin, Miles, Jimi
Well-known West Michigan guitarist Mike Dodge is the focus of this week’s “Three Albums that Changed My World” feature, revealing some true, modern music classics. Check out his picks, listen to the music.
Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows · Videos
Watkins Family Hour stirs fresh passion for ‘Brother Sister’ with GR tour stop on tap
Renowned folk/bluegrass siblings Sara and Sean Watkins play St. Cecilia Music Center on Thursday as part of the Acoustic Cafe Folk Series. The Local Spins interview, with videos of songs from their most recent release.
Concert reviews · Weekend Photo Gallery
Weekend Concert Recap: Blue October, Allison Russell, Jameson Rodgers, BoneHawk and more
Get an eyeful with these photo galleries recapping a weekend of music from Grand Rapids to Kalamazoo, from touring stars to local favorites such as Hannah Laine, Patty PerShayla, Lokella, Hollow Front, Nathan Walton and The Insiders. Browse the photos from more than a half-dozen area shows.
James Taylor and Jackson Browne ‘Shower the People’ with nostalgic charm in Grand Rapids
Friday’s tour stop at Van Andel Arena delivered a career-spanning trove of familiar hits by a pair of acclaimed singer-songwriters who still wield spellbinding appeal for longtime fans. The evening also included a tribute to Michigan native and longtime James Taylor backing singer David Lasley, who passed away earlier this week. Check out the review, photos and set lists.
Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts
West Michigan’s Zebra 3 spawns ‘magical combination’ of pop-fueled rock and more
Propelled by four veteran musicians, the band has released two EPs and a single, with more on tap. They made their debut for Local Spins on WYCE, which also aired new music from several Michigan acts, including Patty PerShayla & The Mayhaps, Kanola Band, The Epitones, La Furia Del Ritmo, Whiskey Hunter and Grace Theisen.
Features · Music and Technology
New KDL Vibes music-streaming service promotes diverse local artists, ‘immense’ talent
Created by Kent District Library, the streaming platform launched this fall showcases dozens of West Michigan acts and pays artists an honorarium to boot. Learn more about KDL Vibes and check out its roster of artists.
West Michigan Jazz Society Musician of the Year Paul Brewer: Grateful for a life of music
The respected lifelong musician, educator and jazz trombonist was honored during a special celebration on Monday, joining his wife, Robin Connell, as ‘musician of the year’ recipients. The profile of a istinguished career at Local Spins.
Albums that Changed the World · Audio · Playlists
Hannah Rose Graves: ‘Albums that Changed My World,’ from Modest Mouse to Janelle Monae
Some compelling albums across a wide spectrum have inspired Grand Rapids singer Hannah Rose Graves, who also reveals her current penchant for Nashville darling Margo Price. Listen to tracks from her picks, as well as songs by Graves herself.
Breaking music news · Features · Music and Technology
New Juke app allows fans to request songs in-concert, send tips to performers
Created by a South Bend tech startup, the innovative app is being embraced by some West Michigan acts as a way of connecting with fans and monetizing their performances. Get the details at Local Spins.
Sullivan King, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Milk Carton Kids, Drew Nelson: Concert Photo Recap
Hard to envision a more contrasting set of shows unfurling in West Michigan over the weekend: swing revival, folk, a metal-EDM hybrid, Americana, blues, you name it — all showcased in photos at Local Spins.
Announcements · Upcoming shows
WYCE raring to resume Jammie Awards celebration in February 2022
After a 2021 hiatus due to COVID-19, the community radio station will stage the popular event once again at The Intersection, with fans invited to vote for their “Artist of the Year.” The lowdown at Local Spins.
Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts · Videos
The Lonely Lovers on mission to paint rootsy musical picture of northern Michigan
The band led by Boyne City’s Mark Blaauw-Hara spotlighted tracks from its debut album for Local Spins on WYCE, which also debuted music by The Wire Monkeys, Saajtak, Roots Asylum and more. Learn more about The Lonely Lovers and listen to this week’s full radio show podcast.
Austin Benzing, Lazy Genius, Edison Kitt make Hot Top 5 debut as Lee Heerspink soars to No. 1
Three new releases by Grand Rapids artists made a splash on the November chart at WYCE, with Heerspink’s jazz-fueled “Monsters’ Impromptu” swapping places with Billy Strings. View the chart, listen to tracks from all of the albums at Local Spins.
The Local Spins 2021 Christmas Gift Guide for Michigan Music Lovers
Back for the 2021 shopping season, Local Spins’ gift guide offers ideas for the music lover on your list: local products, including those supporting Michigan’s music scene along with a bevy of unique gifts bearing a tuneful vibe.
Albums that Changed the World · Audio · Playlists
Kalamazoo producer, engineer, musician Ian Gorman: ‘Albums That Changed My World’
Recordings by The Rolling Stones, Gillian Welch and Sonic Youth had a big impact on studio owner Ian Gorman, who also revealed his penchant for the latest album by West Michigan’s own Patty PerShayla. Check out his album picks, plus listen to a couple of tracks from the band in which he’s been a member for 15 years.
Bela Fleck, Greensky Bluegrass pump up bluegrass hearts across West Michigan
Hometown heroes Greensky Bluegrass revved up two nights of fun at State Theatre for fans in Kalamazoo, with banjo phenom Bela Fleck lighting up a smaller crowd with an all-star crew at Grand Rapids’ DeVos Performance Hall. The recaps and photos.
In Memoriam · Local Spins Rewind
Local Spins Rewind: Honoring the late musicians Michael Fleckenstein, Michael Hall
A year ago, West Michigan lost these beloved guitarists, so Local Spins remembers them today. On Sunday, K’zoofolklife hosts a Memorial Jam for Fleckenstein with musicians gathering for “music and[…]
Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts · Videos
Singer Bradley Sinclair gearing up for ‘heartwarming’ GR holiday show, debut album
The Rockford native and one-time contestant on ‘The Voice’ performed a holiday classic and an original for Local Spins on WYCE, which also debuted tracks by Joshua Rilko, Zebra 3, The Blue Pines, Vert Terms, Cal in Red and more. Get the back story about Sinclair and his upcoming show, and listen to this week’s radio podcast.
Concert reviews · Photos · Videos
Thanksgiving Eve Revelry: The Verve Pipe, Desmond Jones, Stone Soup & The Broken Teeth
After a quiet 2020, the night before Thanksgiving in 2021 showed signs of reviving the musical flurry that’s traditionally kicked off the holiday weekend. Local Spins captured the vibe at three of the shows on Wednesday in words and images.
Killer Blues: Larry McCray to fire up benefit concert for blues icons’ grave headstones
Saturday’s concert in Whitehall is the biggest yet for an unusual project that places tombstones on unmarked graves of America’s influential blues musicians. Learn more about the Killer Blues mission, with details about the weekend benefit.
Announcements · Breaking music news
Michigan-bred bluegrass guitarist Billy Strings lands two more Grammy Award nominations
The nominations announced today stem from his latest, chart-topping studio album, “Renewal.” Billy Strings’ national tour hits Grand Rapids in late December, with fellow Grammy nominee Bela Fleck playing Grand Rapids this Saturday. Learn more about both nominees, with the Grammys set to be doled out on Jan. 31.
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