The world lost John Lennon of the Beatles to a brutal, stunning assassination on Dec. 8, 1980. He was just 40 years old. But 40 years later, the universe still reveres his music, still mourns the loss of this rock icon. Local Spins got some help from local musicians in assembling a Top 40 playlist for the ages.
Album Reviews: Rick Chyme, Heavy Color, Lucy Lowis, Brandino Extravaganza, Marsupials, Jess
Welcome to a pre-Christmas flurry of new releases by Michigan artists, from instrumental flair to hip hop to rock to funk to singer-songwriter charm. Check out today’s reviews and listen to tracks from each album.
The Michigan Music Lovers’ 2020 Christmas Gift Guide
From headphones to vinyl to T-shirts to calendars, Local Spins presents its first Christmas Gift Guide: ideas for the music lover on your list that are focused on local products supporting Michigan’s music scene or representing unique gifts recommended by local experts.
Top Stories of 2020 Countdown (No. 11): The War and Treaty lights up Grammy Awards
The countdown of Local Spins’ most-read stories of the year continues with Albion’s Michael and Tanya Trotter taking part in a star-studded “Grammy Moment” finale. Today, we update that story from January, plus you can watch The War and Treaty’s Grammy performance as part of this “Local Spins Rewind” feature.
Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts · Videos
Grand Rapids’ Tom Hymn uncorks latest musical ‘hodge podge’ from his ‘weird mind’
The prolific artist with a new album was featured at Local Spins on WYCE, which also debuted tracks by Brother Elsey, The Accidentals, The Skinny Limbs, L. Supreme & Jasonmakesgoodbeats, River City Narrative, Ohly and more. Get the latest from Tom Hymn, watch a music video for a track from his upcoming album and listen to the full radio show podcast at Local Spins.
‘Comeback Road’ Video: St. Cecilia Music Center weathers uncertain future amid COVID
The fourth West Michigan venue showcased in the “Comeback Road” video series has survived for 137 years. But it’s never experienced a year quite like 2020. Watch the latest video and learn more about the plight — and illustrious history — of St. Cecilia Music Center.
War and Treaty, Earth Radio, Cameron Blake retain top slots on Local Spins Hot Top 5 chart
The November chart reflecting airplay of regional albums at WYCE-FM mostly just reshuffled entries from October, with one new album debut. Get details, listen to tracks from each release.
Announcements · Breaking music news · Venue Spotlight
Michigan music venues and promoters form new trade group to rescue concert businesses
The statewide MIVPA organization will lobby for $10 million in state funding to assist concert venues and promoters devastated by the 2020 pandemic. Details at Local Spins.
West Michigan fans, friends grieve death of musicians Michael Hall II, Michael Fleckenstein
The beloved guitarists – one from Grand Rapids who battled leukemia and one from Kalamazoo stricken with COVID – passed away on Saturday, saddening fans of The Moonrays and Bride of Fleckenstein. Read the memorials and comments at Local Spins.
Local Spins 2021 Calendars: Looking back at Michigan bands, looking ahead to brighter days
It’s true 2020 didn’t unfold as expected. But West Michigan bands remained active, reflected in spectacular calendar images by Local Spins photographers. And, yes, the calendars optimistically feature 2021 music festival dates. Order them now; it’s the perfect, Michigan-centric holiday gift.
Local Spins Rewind · Top 12 Stories Countdown
The Countdown of Local Spins’ Top Stories of 2020: Michigan Artist Relief Fund at No. 12
Thanksgiving weekend launches Local Spins’ countdown of its most-read, most popular stories of 2020. The pandemic, not surprisingly, dominated the scene — including our No. 12 story about a new musicians’ relief fund.
Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts · Videos
West Michigan teen songster Lucy Lowis brings ‘old soul’ flavor to debut album
The Plainwell High School junior was this week’s guest for Local Spins on WYCE, which also debuted tracks by Brandino Extravaganza, Heavy Color, Oxford Fields, Kate Hinote Trio and more. Learn more about Lucy Lowis and listen to this week’s radio show podcast.
The healing power of music: West Michigan musicians give thanks amid pandemic pain
Thanksgiving 2020 arrives today after a turbulent, scary and musically silent year unlike any other. But the region’s music community remains upbeat and thankful. See why these artists are so thankful and read their comments at Local Spins.
Albums that Changed the World · Audio · Features
Three Albums that Changed My World: Brian Vander Ark of The Verve Pipe
Today, Local Spins kicks off a new series from writer Ross Boissoneau exploring the recordings that have most influenced the careers and artistry of well-known Michigan musicians. We start with Brian Vander Ark. View his Top 3, with links to listen to the featured albums.
Announcements · Breaking music news · Videos
Michigan guitar hero Billy Strings gets Grammy Award nomination for best bluegrass album
Billy Strings was “completely blown away” by the honor, made as part of today’s Grammy nominations announcement. Award winners will be announced on Jan. 31. Get the details at Local Spins.
Playlists · Top 10 Lists · Videos
Tuesday Playlist: Red Dock’s Top 10 performers, from Greensky Bluegrass to Andy Frasco
For our Thanksgiving week playlist, Brad Raffenaud of The Red Dock, on the lakeshore, pitches in with a roster of crazy-good bands that have played the unique West Michigan venue over the years. Check out his Top 10 and watch the videos at Local Spins.
You can keep Local Spins spinning: A Thanksgiving week letter from the publisher
It’s been a grueling year for music-related businesses, including Local Spins. During Thanksgiving week, we’re especially grateful to our readers and those that continue to support what we do.
Breaking music news · Features
Winds of Change: Tim Perry bids adieu as GR Songwriters Alliance rolls on virtually
In its 16th year, the West Michigan group that nurtures songwriters has seen dramatic changes in 2020, from COVID-19 to the departure of its much-admired co-founder. Meet his replacement, Julia Yob, and read more about the GRSA in today’s Sunday feature.
Local Spins 2019 Rewind: Double-album tribute to Ralston Bowles; Billy Strings’ meteoric rise
Today’s look back at November 2019 spotlights milestones for a pair of beloved West Michigan music icons, not to mention a St. Joseph musician’s ambitious, unique attempt to play 100 breweries in 100 days. Revisit these special moments via Local Spins Rewind.
Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts · Videos
The bluesy and ‘magical’ rock ’n’ roll brotherhood of Barrel Bones
The Grand Rapids super-group showcased new songs for Local Spins on WYCE, which also debuted tracks by FINKEL, Myron Elkins, Melissa Dylan, Sugartone Noise Co., Troy Ceasar and more. Get the back story about Barrel Bones, watch one of the band’s music videos and listen to this week’s full radio show podcast at Local Spins.
The Intersection puts star-making history on hold due to COVID: The ‘Comeback Road’ Video
The third spotlighted venue in the “Comeback Road” video series focuses on the daunting challenges faced by one of Grand Rapids’ most revered music hot spots. Watch the video, see how The Intersection hopes fans can help.
Breaking music news · Venue Spotlight
Grand Rapids’ 20 Monroe Live and The B.O.B entertainment complex go up for sale
Amid the 2020 pandemic, two of downtown’s most popular live music hot spots are now seeking buyers. See what the asking price is and get more details at Local Spins.
Album Reviews: Sarena Rae, Suzies, Distant Stars, Troy Ceasar, Revelation Rain & more
Mid-November brings another review roundup of new releases by West Michigan artists covering a dizzying array of genres. Read the reviews, listen to tracks from each of the featured artists.
Playlists · Top 10 Lists · Videos
Tuesday Playlist: Holland Park Theatre Top 10, from Billy Strings to Bob Dylan to Biomassive
For this week’s playlist, Local Spins asked Park Theatre to rustle up a roster of robust tracks that spotlight regional bands who’ve graced its stage along with some gems from internationally renowned artists.
Breaking music news · Commentary · Venue Spotlight
Going ‘in the wrong direction’: Another lockdown, COVID spike cloud future of concerts
Michigan’s new ban on indoor bar/restaurant service is only part of a gloomy, complicated outlook for live music that extends into 2021. And that leaves Local Spins “in search of a Big List.” See what experts are saying about when — and if — concerts will return to area stages.
Features · In-Depth Report · Videos
Symphony Reinvention: Orchestras, GR Ballet cope with COVID upheaval, revamp for survival
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.
Album Releases · Audio · Periscope · Videos
Local Spins Periscope: A first look at new music by The Avalanches and Kevin Morby
Today, Local Spins writers and ‘New Standards’ hosts Troy Reimink and Tricia Boot Woolfenden spotlight fresh national/international tracks that you might have otherwise missed. View their picks, listen to the songs, watch the videos.
Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts · Videos
Chris DuPont ‘uproots and replants’ with ambitious, dark new indie-folk album
With an EP and new album on the way, the Ypsilanti-based singer-songwriter took center stage for Local Spins on WYCE, which also debuted fresh tracks by several Michigan artists, including Rick Chyme, Eric Engblade, Olivia Dear, Jordan Moore, Jack Droppers and Shin Hoo Yong. Get the back story on DuPont, watch a video of him performing a new song and listen to this week’s radio show podcast.
Local Spins Rewind · Videos · Vintage Gigs
Alice Cooper terrorizes Tulip City with ‘Dead Babies,’ gallows: Vintage Gig, 1972
Detroit-bred Alice Cooper releases a new, Michigan-focused album, “Detroit Stories,” in February. But 48 years ago, it was a “Holland Story” that rocked and shocked the region. For Local Spins Rewind, writer Brian J. Bowe recounts the historic night that Alice did Holland.
Guitars for Vets GR: Offering instruments, camaraderie and ‘comfort to those in need’
For more than a decade, the Grand Rapids chapter of this volunteer group has tutored military veterans and handed out dozens of guitars to bring music into their lives and help them cope. A feature for Veterans Day at Local Spins, with information about how you can help veterans and the Guitars for Vets program.
Playlists · Top 10 Lists · Videos
Top 10 Songs About Soldiers (and War) in the Rock ‘n’ Roll Era for Veterans Day
Veterans Day is Wednesday, so this week’s playlist at Local Spins unfurls some classic tracks that commemorate those in the military and the sacrifices they’ve made in spite of the politics involved. Watch the videos, listen to the Top 10 on Spotify.
Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows
Big List Concert Guide (Nov. 9-15): Singer-songwriter charm, jazz, country & classic rock
The days are getting shorter and so is the list of live music options in West Michigan. Nevertheless, the show goes on in a variety of locations as we move into mid-November. Browse this week’s concert listings at Local Spins.
Artist Spotlights · Photos · Videos
August weathers pandemic to create soulful, intricate new music, endearing live-streams
The Grand Rapids collective has stayed safely active during COVID-19 with socially distanced shows and virtual performances while promoting a new EP and workshopping new material for the next one. Delve into the creative world of August in this in-depth Artist Spotlight and watch the video of a performance of a song from the band’s latest EP.
Concert reviews · Local Spins Rewind · Photos
Local Spins 2019 Rewind: Brantley Gilbert hails ‘badass’ Sadie Bass, GR’s Listening Room opens
A year ago this week, Local Spins published one of the most-read stories of the year — featuring emerging Michigan country artist Sadie Bass — and hailed the long-awaited, official opening of Listening Room. Check out reviews and photo galleries from those November 2019 events, plus several major West Michigan tour stops.
Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts · Videos
Allison Van Liere’s confessional Americana debut strikes ‘radically honest’ nerve
The Holland singer-songwriter opens up about her ‘kinda dark’ album for Local Spins on WYCE, which also debuted tracks by Pink Sky, Suzies, The Pistil Whips, Lucy Lowis and more. Learn more about Van Liere’s intriguing musical journey and listen to this week’s full radio show podcast.
‘Comeback Road’ Video Premiere: GR’s ‘classic jukejoint’ Tip Top Deluxe battles to survive
The second installation in the ‘Comeback Road’ video series spotlights the plight of Grand Rapids’ Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill, which essentially has been closed by the pandemic since March. Watch the video to learn more about this beloved concert venue and the uphill struggle it faces.
The War and Treaty marches straight to No. 1 on Hot Top 5 Chart with ‘Hearts Town’
The signature, heartfelt sophomore album from the Albion duo now based in Nashville soared to the top of the October chart which also saw the debut of new releases by Patty PerShayla and The Soods. Cameron Blake and Earth Radio returned to the chart for the second month in a row. Browse the chart and listen to tracks from each of the featured artists at Local Spins.
Black Music Matters Playlist: West Michigan’s Top 20 artists you need to know
For this Election Day playlist, Local Spins asked a panel of musicians to cast their ballots for emerging black artists with great potential from the region who deserve a brighter spotlight. Browse their picks, listen to the music.
Ada singer Skylar Mayton, 15, makes major splash on ‘The Voice’ during blind auditions
The young West Michigan singer and member of the Grand Haven-based band Five Strand Fusion impressed judges — and an audience of millions — on Monday during blind auditions for NBC’s “The Voice.” Learn more about Mayton and watch the video of her performance on ‘The Voice.’
Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows
The Big List Concert Guide (Nov. 2-8): Live music options for election week
As West Michigan eases into November 2020, the indoor live music scene is much different and more restricted than it was last November. Local Spins rounds up the musical happenings amid what’s expected to be a turbulent election week.
Artist Spotlights · Features · Videos
Local Spins ‘Periscope’: Must-hear new tracks from Tigers Jaw, Cass McCombs & Angel Olsen
Today, Local Spins debuts ‘Periscope,’ with Grand Rapids ‘New Standards’ hosts Troy Reimink and Tricia Woolfenden each picking a compelling new track by a national artist deserving the spotlight. Get into the know, listen to the new music to start your Sunday.
Concert announcements · Concert reviews · Photos
Some Halloween concerts, parties canceled; Callab pumps up final ‘Listening Lawn’ show
Halloween weekend amid 2020’s coronavirus crisis is not what West Michigan has come to expect, with closed venues and canceled shows. But Grand Rapids hip hop artists still fired a final musical salvo at Studio Park on Friday. Get the holiday weekend update, see what shows are still happening and browse the photo gallery at Local Spins.
Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts · Videos
Michigander revels in ‘wild feeling’ of national chart success while eyeing new EP
Frontman Jason Singer talked about his latest hit single for Local Spins on WYCE, which also debuted music by Chris DuPont, Au Gres, Jack Droppers, Allison Van Liere, Laura Rain, The Marsupials and more. Learn more about Michigander’s new music and future plans, check out a live performance video of the new single, and listen to this week’s radio show podcast at Local Spins.
Breaking music news · Venue Spotlight
Spring Lake’s Seven Steps Up concert venue lands ‘lifesaving’ $35,000 grant
The national Live Music Society awarded grants to 20 clubs across the country, the same day that the Michigan Music Alliance announced a ‘relaunch’ of a fundraising campaign to aid musicians hurt by the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more about both developments at Local Spins.
Album Reviews: Callab, Deerfield Run, Brant Satala, Cameron Blake, Stovepipe, VAZUM
This week, Local Spins spotlights six new releases by Michigan artists, from hip hop to roots rock to folk, and featuring a couple of collections perfect for haunting your neighbors on Halloween. Check out the reviews, listen to songs from each of the releases.
Playlists · Top 10 Lists · Videos
Top 10 Scariest Songs Ever: Local Spins readers unearth the horrifying Halloween 2020 playlist
n what may be the scariest year ever, Halloween 2020 rears its spooky head on Saturday. So, to get folks ready, Local Spins presents some of its readers’ favorite terrifying tracks for a spine-tingling soundtrack. Turn off the lights, press play and get ready to be spooked.
Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows
Big List Concert Guide (Oct. 26-Nov. 1): Halloween hoopla, a street party & more
Although the weather is limiting outdoor performances these days, Local Spins has scared up a smattering of spine-tingling Halloween week shows and socially distanced costume parties to consider.
World Premiere Video: Jake Allen goes ‘On the Run,’ plus new videos by other Michigan artists
Local Spins today exclusively premieres a new music video from northern Michigan’s Jake Allen. Plus, check out new videos from other Michigan artists, including a May Erlewine song that got the attention of Bonnie Raitt and entries from Lady Ace Boogie, Cameron Blake, The Dave Marean Band and Brent Godfrey.
Local Spins Rewind: Luke Bryan, Folk Alliance, Ben Folds, Trey Anastasio fire up fall 2019
A year ago this week, country, pop, jam band, rock and folk fans were in the thick of memorable West Michigan performances and events — oblivious to the approaching COVID pandemic. Relive the week in words and photos courtesy of Local Spins Rewind.
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