Rocking stages from Grand Rapids to Kalamazoo to Howell, bands playing venues large and small over the holiday weekend gave Michigan’s music devotees plenty to celebrate. Check out all of the resplendent images at Local Spins.
Concert reviews · Videos · Weekend Photo Gallery
Hannah Rose, Big Dudee Roo, Jesse Ray bring sun-splashed revelry to Local Spins’ CD-release party
Sunday’s fifth anniversary celebration outside HopCat in downtown Grand Rapids drew hundreds of West Michigan devotees — and 5K runners — for a Memorial Day weekend treat. Ogle the Local Spins photo gallery and video highlights.
Concert announcements · Kalamazoo · Summer Concerts · Upcoming shows
Kalamazoo, Oshtemo, Portage, Parchment fire up free summer concerts with regional stars
The Kalamazoo area boasts tons of opportunities to revel in live music in the great outdoors this summer, from park bandshells to HopCat’s beer garden. Check out the lineups for more than a half-dozen series that kick off in June.
Summer Concerts · Upcoming shows
ZZ Top continues to ‘rock on,’ conquer new musical worlds while getting set to kick off Interlochen’s summer
With nearly five decades of music under its belt, that ‘little ol’ band from Texas’ will get the Interlochen series started with a blues-rock bang. Read the Local Spins interview with ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons.
Audio · Concert reviews · Photos · Summer Festivals
Embracing the musical ‘bus life’: Buses by the Beach Bus Benefit starts engine on summer
The festival’s opening night at Camp Blodgett along the lakeshore between Grand Haven and Holland boasted sets by The Waverlys and Nicholas James & The Bandwagon, plus the usual VW bus-inspired camaraderie. Check out the photo gallery and audio clips from this kickoff to Memorial Day weekend.
Summer Festivals · Upcoming Album Releases · Upcoming shows
Local Spins to mark fifth anniversary with CD-release fest Sunday in Grand Rapids
Hannah Rose & The GravesTones, Big Dudee Roo and Jesse Ray & The Carolina Catfish play outside HopCat Grand Rapids late Sunday afternoon, following the HopCat Extra Time 5K Race. The Local Spins CD featuring tracks by 12 West Michigan artists is available digitally online today, with physical copies available at Sunday’s event.
Festivals · Upcoming shows · Videos
Bled Fest to get ‘wild’ in Howell on Saturday with La Dispute and other West Michigan talent
The day-long, all-ages show featuring nearly 70 bands will be headlined by Grand Rapids post-hardcore heroes La Dispute. The nationally acclaimed band will give a special performance of its album, “Wildlife,” in its entirety.
Michigan-bred singer Lauren Duski finishes second on NBC’s “The Voice”
The Gaylord native proved her mettle as an emerging country star by coming in second on the show’s 12th season after conceding she was “completely overwhelmed” by her fans’ support. Watch the videos from her finale performances.
Summer Festivals · Upcoming shows
Buses by the Beach Bus Benefit to unfurl three days of music, family-friendly vibe, ‘amazing’ ambiance, VW buses
The cozy Memorial Day weekend festival along Lake Michigan will boast sets by The Giving Tree Band, Melophobix, Fauxgrass, Roosevelt Diggs, Nicholas James & The Bandwagon and many more. See the full schedule at Local Spins and save it on your smartphone to take with you.
Videos · Weekend Photo Gallery
Chase Rice, Jonny Lang and a Bob Dylan Tribute rock West Michigan: Local Spins Weekend Photo Galleries, Videos
From The Intersection’s first ‘Rock the Lot’ show of 2017 to one of the outdoor season’s first Michigan festivals in St. Joseph to an annual Bob Dylan tribute at Founders Brewing Co. in Grand Rapids, live music turned up the volume this weekend. Check out the colorful images and videos at Local Spins.
Concert announcements · Kalamazoo · Summer Concerts
Arcadia Ales to launch Riversedge Summer Music Series in Kalamazoo
The new outdoor venue will host four one-day outdoor “festivals,” from June to September, on a new stage in Arcadia Ales’ cozy patio space next to the Kalamazoo River. Check out the lineups, with videos of some of the featured bands.
Primus doesn’t suck, regales Grand Rapids fans with career-spanning, ‘truly original’ alt-rock
Selling out 20 Monroe Live on its current U.S. tour, Primus trotted out its trippy lyrics, psychedelic guitars and even some jam-band vibes for an approving crowd. Read Troy Reimink’s review and browse the photo gallery by Anthony Norkus.
Concert reviews · Photos · Videos
Jake Kershaw adds blues-rock flourish to Local Spins 5th Birthday bash at Rockford Brewing
The teenage Michigan guitarist turned heads and dropped jaws again at an intimate, jam-packed Friday affair that launched a week of celebrating the online magazine’s fifth birthday. Check out the video and photo gallery.
Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts · Videos
Hollywood Makeout makes splash with new recording, album-release show on riverboat
Yes, the Grand Rapids garage rock band made waves by performing on the Grand Lady Riverboat and on radio for Local Spins on WYCE, which also debuted new tracks by several Michigan acts. Listen to the radio podcast, watch the video of the band’s in-studio performance and browse the photo gallery from its water-borne album-release show.
Concert announcements · Summer Concerts
GRAM on the Green set to sizzle in July and August with six concerts on the Grand Rapids Art Museum Terrace
The Accidentals, SuperDre, The Crane Wives, The Great Ones, Cabildo and more are part of the free Thursday night series. See the full lineup at Local Spins, with videos of the featured artists.
Playlists · Top 10 Lists · Upcoming shows
The 10 Best Primus Songs: The Local Spins Playlist
The Les Claypool-led Primus plays a sold-out Grand Rapids show on Saturday. Naturally, Local Spins writer and Primus buff Troy Reimink figured it was the perfect time to roll out his Primus Top 10. Check out the videos and Spotify playlist.
‘Best of Open Mic’ showcase Sunday at Spring Lake’s Seven Steps Up aims to lift spirits, celebrate ‘positive’ vibe
In this spotlight on the lakeshore, read how top performers from several open-mic sessions will play a special showcase this weekend — and share in ticket proceeds from the event. Get insights into this popular open mic and watch some video highlights.
Flint Eastwood, Jesse Ray & The Carolina Catfish, A.B. to rock out for fashion event
Thursday’s unusual event at 20 Monroe Live is a benefit for Kids’ Food Basket that will feature a Cat Footwear fashion show to boot. And things could get a bit ‘rowdy,’ says one performer. Get the details and more information at Local Spins.
Concert announcements · Summer Concerts
Garage Bar Block Parties, Jazz in the Park, East Grand Rapids roll out summer weeknight concerts for 2017
In another Local Spins roundup of outdoor summer concerts to brighten your weeknights, see the full lineups and schedules for Garage Bar’s block parties, West Michigan Jazz Society’s Monday Jazz in the Park performances and John Collins Park shows.
Artist Spotlights · Live at River City · Podcasts · Videos
Local Spins Rewind: Hip hop appreciation Grand Rapids-style with Lady Ace Boogie
In honor of Hip Hop Appreciation Week, Local Spins revisits a River City Studios session with Grand Rapids rapper Lady Ace Boogie, who plays a Local Spins fifth anniversary event at SpeakEZ Lounge later this month. Check out the video, podcast and some links to Hip Hop Appreciation Week events in Grand Rapids.
Judy Collins, Leo Kottke, Gregory Porter, Kurt Elling and more to play St. Cecilia Music Center
Grand Rapids’ St. Cecilia Music Center today announced its jazz, folk and chamber music series for 2017-18, and it’s a who’s who roster of award-winning musicians. See the full schedule of concerts at Local Spins.
Videos · Weekend Photo Gallery
New Kids on the Block, Bela Fleck, Lil Wayne, The Crane Wives, Brian Koenigsknecht, Mark Lavengood: Week-in-Review Photo Galleries
From national tour stops by pop, hip-hop and bluegrass acts to jam-packed local showcases, West Michigan’s week of live music kept May hopping. Check out the images and videos at Local Spins.
Breaking music news · Summer Concerts
Meijer Gardens offers up some tickets for previously sold-out concerts including The Shins, Daughtry, Bruce Hornsby
On the first day of summer concert ticket sales to non-members, Meijer Gardens surprised some folks: A small number of tickets to several previously sold-out shows were made available to the public. But move fast, because they won’t last long, officials warn.
Artist Spotlights · Kalamazoo · Local Spins on WYCE · Upcoming shows · Videos
Kalamazoo singer-songwriter Brian Koenigsknecht takes listeners ‘From the Shallows to the Deep’ on moving new album
The veteran artist releases his CD at Louie’s Back Room Friday night, previewing the show during Local Spins on WYCE, which also featured new tracks by Mid-Life Crisis, Willamena, J. Snell, Jake Kershaw, Mark Lavengood, Tail From the Crypt and more. Read the feature story, listen to the podcast, watch the video of Koenigsknecht’s in-studio performance.
Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows
Mark Lavengood: Blazing bluegrass, buckets of healing songs, a new album and lots of hugs
Lindsay Lou & The Flatbellys’ upbeat Dobro-meister from Grand Rapids, aka “Huggy Bear,” releases a new solo recording this weekend and mounts a mini-tour with his Bluegrass Bonanza. Read the story behind Mark Lavengood’s latest project, listen to a song from the new album and check out his upcoming performance schedule.
Breaking music news · Guest Column · Top 10 Lists
Celtic and world music group An Dro tops Local Spins Hot Top 5 radio chart for April
Michigan’s popular Celtic/world music outfit was the most-played local act on WYCE last month. See what other bands made the list and browse a roundup of some of WYCE’s unique, weekly specialty music programs.
Summer concerts to warm up Grand Haven, Hastings, Allendale, Hudsonville, Felt Mansion, Fennville, Big Rapids, South Haven, Rosa Parks Circle
Local Spins presents another roundup of free community concerts being held outdoors across West Michigan this summer, starring regional acts. Get the lowdown on more than a dozen series here.
Concert reviews · Weekend Photo Gallery
Jimmy Eat World, NF, Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band, Wayland, Red Legs rock West Michigan: Weekend Photo Galleries
The weekend boasted fan-revving concerts in venues from Grand Rapids to Kalamazoo. Check out all the images in Local Spins photo galleries.
Concert reviews · Photos · Videos
Punk night in Grand Rapids unleashes musical ferocity with Meat Puppets, Mike Watt, Skitchin’ Fest
From a showcase of exuberant regional punk music at Tip Top Deluxe to an epic display of legendary punk groups at Founders Brewing, Saturday night in Grand Rapids proved the diverse power of punk. Experience a special evening of rock in these Local Spins videos and photo galleries.
Artist Spotlights · Breaking music news
Thornetta Davis belts out seasoned, ‘funky Detroit rocking blues’ on latest DIY album, wins eight Detroit Music Awards
It’s all about ‘getting back to your roots’ for Detroit’s award-winning ‘Queen of the Blues’ who racked up more Detroit Music Awards than any other artist this weekend. Read the Local Spins interview, listen to her music.
Artist Spotlights · Kalamazoo · Videos
Kalamazoo’s Bob Rowe and the Green Valley Boys take their music to ‘Higher Ground’ with new single and album
Bob Rowe is a West Michigan music icon. Discover the story behind the veteran country and gospel singer-songwriter’s latest project — his 24th album overall — and listen to the new single. (Story, audio, videos)
Artist Spotlights · Audio · Local Spins on WYCE
Robin Connell: West Michigan Jazz Society’s Musician of the Year (Local Spins on WYCE)
Much-respected jazz advocate and Grand Rapids pianist Robin Connell is a self-described ‘workhorse’ who will be honored at a May 15 banquet. Learn more about this devoted musician and listen to the Local Spins on WYCE podcast featuring performances with Connell and singer Kathy Lamar.
Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows · Videos
Michigan-bred Christian rapper NF soars to national fame, plays Grand Rapids on Saturday
Hailing from the small northern Michigan hamlet of Gladwin, Nate Feuerstein is selling out shows on his current U.S. tour while bringing an “edge” to Christian hip hop. Read the back story about NF’s remarkable rise to fame and watch videos from his latest album.
Artist Spotlights · Local Spins Live · Podcasts
Grand Rapids neo-soul artist Hannah Laine set to release debut EP
The singer-songwriter and keyboard player plays One Trick Pony on Thursday night, unfurling songs that represent “a free expression” of her soul. Read the story about this emerging Grand Rapids artist, listen to the radio podcast, watch the video.
Concert announcements · Summer Concerts · Videos
Meijer Gardens to showcase regional stars for 2017 Tuesday Evening Music Club series
The Moxie Strings, The Moonrays, Michigander, Miss Atomic, Slim Gypsy Baggage, The Muteflutes, The Zannies, Bigfoot Buffalo, Ralston Bowles and more are all part of the July and August concerts. See the full lineup at Local Spins.
Festivals · Upcoming shows · Videos
‘Roaming,’ unique Patchwork Festival in Saginaw, Bay City and Midland stitches artists together from all across The Mitten
Starting Thursday, the 10-day event boasts bands from West Michigan, the east side of the state and more, with poetry slams and films also part of the festival that oozes intimacy and an all-ages vibe like Grand Rapids’ The DAAC. Get details in this Local Spins story.
Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows · Videos
Grand Rapids’ The JetBeats set to bring their ‘60s rock to Liverpool’s legendary Cavern Club, Latham Hall on U.K. tour
Inspired by the early Beatles, the vintage rock band plays SpeakEZ Lounge on Wednesday before crossing the pond for its first European performances. Read the story, check out the video from a recent radio gig.
Breaking music news · Concert announcements · Local Spins Exclusives
Local Spins 5th Anniversary: A first-ever local ‘greatest hits’ CD, an outdoor party and a new Local Spins beer
Local Spins celebrates its 5th birthday in May with an album featuring 12 regional acts, special shows and giveaways, an inaugural street party and a Rockford Brewing IPA brewed especially for Local Spins. Plus, there’s an opportunity for readers to officially join the Local Spins family. Check out the complete schedule of May events.
Concert announcements · Summer Concerts
Walter Trout, Lil’ Ed, Selwyn Birchwood, Scotty Bratcher, Eric Gales to heat up 97LAV Summertime Blues series
The 2017 edition of the Wednesday night blues series that returns to the DeltaPlex Arena parking lot in Walker also boasts veteran and emerging stars such as Coco Montoya, Larry McCray, Big James & The Chicago Playboys and Jake Kershaw. See the full schedule and check out what’s new for this year’s series.
Concert reviews · Weekend Photo Gallery
Explosions in the Sky, Real Friends, Guided by Voices, The Go Rounds, Tunde Olaniran charm West Michigan: Week-in-Review Photo Galleries
The week got rolling with Blues Traveler in Kalamazoo and just kept rocking, from Shorts Brewing’s 13th anniversary party in Bellaire to The Pyramid Scheme’s two-day sixth anniversary bash. Check out all the images at Local Spins.
Breaking music news · Summer Concerts
Meijer Gardens sells out tickets for Barenaked Ladies, Sheryl Crow, The Shins, Huey Lewis and more in first hour of sales
In the opening morning of sales to Meijer Gardens members, folks lined up, went online and snapped up tickets to a bevy of shows in the 2017 summer series. And more sold out within hours. See an updated list of the sold-out shows thus far.
Audio · Guest Column · Videos
‘Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band’ turns 50: The Beatles’ milestone, universe-expanding classic is still wondrous, hair-raising
In this Local Spins guest column, Grand Rapids writer and musician Charley Honey revisits the life-changing experience of ‘Sgt. Pepper.’ Check out his take on the album five decades on, listen to the album and find links to other stories about the iconic recording.
Concert announcements · Summer Concerts · Videos
Northern Michigan’s Fountain Point Resort rolls out new summer series in ‘beautiful place’
The Lake Leelanau hot spot will up the ante this summer with a series of Thursday and Sunday shows that spotlight regional bands such as The Accidentals, The Crane Wives, The Ragbirds and The Go Rounds. Get the full lineup and details at Local Spins.
Concert announcements · Summer Festivals · Videos
Richard Elliot, Nate Harasim, Organissimo, Four80East, Bryan Lubeck to pump up August’s GRandJazzFest in Grand Rapids
The free festival being held Aug. 19-20 at Rosa Parks Circle once again will boast a blend of international and regional jazz favorites. See the full schedule, with videos of some of the featured performers for GRandJazzFest 2017.
Summer concert lineups for Holland, Rockford, Lowell, Sparta, Wyoming, Walker, Zeeland boast West Michigan stars
Summer is right around the corner and communities across West Michigan once again are hosting free weeknight concerts featuring regional acts, from Lindsay Lou & The Flatbellys to The Crane Wives to Union Guns and more. Get out your calendar and scan the lineups for seven of these concert series at Local Spins.
Features · Kalamazoo · Photos · Videos
Restoring the Gibson legacy: Kalamazoo’s Heritage Guitars renovating historic plant for guitar lovers, tourists
‘It’s starting to look like Gibson again.’ Under new ownership, Heritage Guitars aims to restore the luster of Kalamazoo’s Gibson factory to make it a destination for tourists, history buffs and devotees of handcrafted, American-made guitars. Check out the story, photos and video.
Festivals · Videos · Weekend Photo Gallery
Week-in-Review Photos, Video: Hunter Hayes, Jake’s Music Festival, Mustard Plug, Pert Near Sandstone, Ragbirds, Heaters, Jimmie Stagger
It was a week of familiar bands in new locations, familiar events with new faces, and new events with familiar faces. Check out all the concert images — from Hunter Hayes on Thursday to Flint Eastwood on Sunday night — along with the “Grand Rapids: A Musical Day in the Life” video at Local Spins.
Breaking music news · Photos · Videos
Record Store Day pumps up West Michigan vinyl lovers, leads police to shut down one Grand Rapids celebration (Photo gallery, video)
No arrests were made, but one Record Store Day celebration was cut off by the authorities in mid-stream. Most of the day across West Michigan, however, shaped up as a vinyl lover’s dream. Check out the video and a Local Spins photo gallery.
Artist Spotlights · Upcoming shows · Videos
Thornetta Davis belts out seasoned, ‘funky Detroit rocking blues’ on latest DIY album, plays Grand Rapids Saturday
It’s all about ‘getting back to your roots’ for Detroit’s much-respected, award-winning ‘Queen of the Blues’ who headlines Saturday’s ‘Local Blues Matters’ benefit at Billy’s Lounge. Read the Local Spins interview, listen to her inspiring music.
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