Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts
The Grand Rapids DJ and electronic music producer debuted the new project for Local Spins on WYCE, which also premiered tracks by Melophobix, Jonn-e, The Journeymen, Phabies, Sundry and more. Listen to the podcast and watch a video of the Ty Beat/Graves in-studio performance.
The Earthwork Music singer and her band’s soulful, dance-hued EP soared to the top of the WYCE play rotation the same month it was released. The Gasoline Gypsies and McWeakerton also made their chart debut in December. See the full chart and listen to music from all of the featured releases.
Features · Top 10 Lists · Videos
Last week, it was the critics. Today, Local Spins features West Michigan musicians’ favorite albums of the year. Pore over the lists of their picks for top albums of 2018 and listen to the music.
Features · Top 10 Lists · Videos
It’s another mind-bending array of music that’s impressed Local Spins writers over the past year, from Robyn to Janelle Monae, Lindsay Lou to Urfaust, Childish Gambino to Julian Allen and more. Browse these “best of” lists, sample music from the featured artists and then submit your own Top 5 picks.
From country to metalcore, soul to swing, this roundup of West Michigan shows over the past week delivers a potpourri of concert images: The Devil Wears Prada, Scotty McCreery, May Erlewine, Jake Kershaw and more. Check out all the photo galleries at Local Spins.
Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts · Videos
The West Michigan band’s debut Friday included a show at Billy’s Lounge and an in-studio for Local Spins on WYCE, which also debuted new local holiday tunes and more. Find out more about Dalmatian Stone, watch videos of their first public performance and listen to the radio show podcast featuring the premiere of tracks by Kevin DePree, Michael Dause, The JetBeats, Westrin & Mowry and more.
Seven acts — from Roxy Music to Stevie Nicks to The Zombies — will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame next year. Here’s a recap of the inductees and some videos of the Class of 2019.
Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows
The approaching holidays heat things up on the music scene this week with Red Legs, The Crane Wives, Junior Valentine & Hank Mowery, Dalmatian Stone, Jake Kershaw, ‘The Nutcracker,’ Schubert Male Chorus, a ‘Roaring ’20s Holiday Ball’ and much more. Plus win concert tickets to see The Devil Wears Prada or Morgan Wallen via The Big List.
Playlists · Top 10 Lists · Videos
Grand Rapids’ masked champions of surf rock, The Concussions, play Tip Top Deluxe on Saturday. So, Local Spins asked The Concussions’ Dick Chiclet, aka Tommy Schichtel, for an off-the-beaten-path holiday playlist with a retro twist. Check out the videos and listen to some classic Christmas tunes you may have never heard before.
As the holidays approach, this month’s Local Spins segment on Michigan Radio’s ‘Stateside’ uncorked a diverse trio of new releases by Grand Rapids-area bands. Read about the artists, listen to their songs and the ‘Stateside’ podcast.
Concert reviews · Weekend Photo Gallery
The Midnight Hour collective’s Pyramid Scheme tour stop was just part of this week’s eclectic image recap that includes Cody Jinks, Marcus King Band, Dacia Bridges Project, The Hill People, Weezil Malone & Horseshoes and Hand Grenades. Browse the images, watch the videos at Local Spins.
Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts
This week’s edition of Local Spins on WYCE wrapped up the radio station’s Fall Fund Drive with new music from a host of artists, plus some classics by veteran players. Listen to the new tracks and the full podcast.
Gary Clark Jr.’s musical conversation proved to be a powerful, dynamic dialogue of groaning blues, searing rock ’n’ roll and riveting soul Monday night at 20 Monroe Live.
The Albion duo of Michael and Tanya Trotter — The War and Treaty — has impressed critics with its new album, which led the way on a chart that also featured four more new entries, including Peace to Mateo and Joshua Davis. Listen to tracks from all five releases.
Videos · Weekend Photo Gallery
The week started with another sold-out Lyle Lovett concert at Meijer Gardens, with plenty of fan-pleasing shows to follow in the warm-up to Labor Day. Browse the photos, videos at Local Spins.
The second-year festival at Grand Rapids’ Belknap Park wrapped up late Saturday night with a rousing set by Khalid, following a day of electronic music and hip hop. Relive it in Local Spins photos.
The lengthy New Orleans jazz and funk showcase at Meijer Gardens on Wednesday boasted an impressive roster of Big Easy faves: Trombone Shorty, Galactic, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, New Breed Brass Band and special guests. Check out the review of what was described as the most fun night ever at Meijer Gardens, plus a robust photo gallery.
Guest Column · Summer Festivals · Upcoming shows
In this ‘Looking for the Perfect Beat’ column, DJ/electronic music devotee Todd Ernst lists his Top 5 reasons for attending this weekend’s music fest in Grand Rapids’ Belknap Park — from the performers to the quality of the production. See the full schedule and a playlist, too.
At 75, the Detroit legend proved in spring 2017 that she was still “The Queen of Soul” with renditions of “Respect,” “Chain of Fools” and “Baby I Love You.” In tribute to this Michican icon, here’s the review from her last Grand Rapids appearance.
The much-beloved Detroit icon died Thursday at age 76. Local Spins pays tribute to this influential soul superstar with a playlist of her enduring hits.
Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows
Mid-August also brings Girls Rock! GR, Ladyfest at the Lakeshore, The Frog King, Sleep Waker, FINKEL, The Ghost of Paul Revere, Lokella, The Go Rounds and more to West Michigan stages. Plus, see how you can win tickets to see Sleep Waker and Lokella.
Concert reviews · Photos · Summer Festivals
An odd, abrupt finish by Matt Berninger and The National wrapped up the spirited, eclectic Detroit festival in “an iconic place.” Check out Local Spins’ review and photo gallery of a second day that featured St. Vincent, Daniel Caesar, Portugal. The Man and Joe Hertler & The Rainbow Seekers.
There’s no letting up when it comes to summer music in West Michigan, with celebrations and concerts from Grand Rapids to Kalamazoo to Hudsonville, displayed in images at Local Spins. Check out all of the photo galleries and links to coverage.
Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts · Videos
The West Michigan blues band, which plays this weekend’s Kalamazoo Blues Fest, debuted new songs on the WYCE radio show, which also boasted new tracks by In the Valley Below, Luna Puer and more. Listen to the podcast, watch the video of Big Boss Band’s in-studio performance.
At 74 years young, Patti LaBelle fully engaged fans during her first Grand Rapids appearance in three decades, unfurling everything from “Lady Marmalade” to “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” The review and photo gallery, exclusively at Local Spins.
The featured West Michigan concerts leading up to another steamy weekend were hot in many ways, from Chrissie Hynde and The Pretenders at 20 Monroe Live to the opening night of the Kalamazoo Blues Fest to Tunde Olaniran revving up the dance party at GRAM on the Green. See all of the photos at Local Spins.
Concert reviews · Photos · Weekend Photo Gallery
Local Spins’ weekend concert photo roundup kicks off with Janelle Monae’s crowd-pleasing tour stop at 20 Monroe Live, with throngs also flocking to Saturday’s Fourth of July bash in Grand Rapids, plus Kalamazoo fun with PHoffman and Joshua Davis at Bell’s Brewery and pianist Nat Zegree’s homecoming show at Bronson Park.
Tuesday night’s sweltering heat couldn’t temper audience enthusiasm for impressive outdoor shows: Tuesday Evening Music Club’s 2018 kickoff at Meijer Gardens and the Rogue River Blues Series in Rockford. Check out the show recaps and photo galleries exclusively at Local Spins.
Summer Concerts · Upcoming shows
Bringing together some of Michigan’s most talented, emerging artists, the popular Tuesday series kicks off in the amphitheater tonight with Hannah Rose & The GravesTones and Rachel Curtis. See the full series lineup.
Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows
The holiday week also features the kickoff to the Tuesday Evening Music Club series, Pedro’s Pig Roast in Grand Haven and, of course, Grand Rapids’ Fourth of July fireworks show on Saturday starring local bands. See all of this week’s featured concerts, along with our Under-the-Radar Picks.
Kaleo’s indie-rock flourish Sunday at 20 Monroe Live ended a week that boasted Grand Rapids stops by Helmet, Yes, Blondie and Herbie Hancock, plus local showcases in Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo, including Hannah Rose & The GravesTones, The Dacia Bridges Project and The Legal Immigrants. Browse all of the resplendent images at Local Spins.
Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts · Videos
The Grand Rapids group which plays a Saturday night showcase in Kalamazoo lit up this week’s radio show, which also boasted new tracks by Brutes, Flint Eastwood, The Deputies, Overdrive Orchestra, Shawn Butzin and more. Listen to the podcast, watch a video of The GravesTones’ in-studio performance.
Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts · Videos
Grand Rapids’ Bello Spark debuted two new songs on the air, Ling hawked his Grand River Water Festival that takes place Saturday and the show premiered new tracks by The Gorgeous Oranges, Pink Sky and Barrel Bones. Listen to the podcast, watch a video of Bello Spark’s fetching in-studio performance.
Giving new life to “Luck Be a Lady,” “I Put a Spell on You” and a few of his own well-known hits, the British-born performer graced the crowd at Meijer Gardens with as much class as those from the Rat Pack era. Read the show recap, browse the photo gallery from Wednesday’s show.
Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows
The Charlotte Bluegrass Festival, Lanco, Shawn Mullins, Rebirth Brass Band, Priests and Tip Top Deluxe’s seventh anniversary show are all part of this week’s live music lineup. Check out all of the West Michigan concert picks, including Langhorne Slim with The Accidentals and Roosevelt Diggs at St. Cecilia Music Center.
From drag queens and kings to lively performances by Betty Who, David Hernandez, En Vogue and more, Saturday’s Grand Rapids Pride Festival proved to be a colorful expression of freedom and individuality. Browse the photo gallery at Local Spins.
Concert reviews · Photos · Summer Festivals · Videos
A somewhat lower turnout at Founders Fest amid steamy weather didn’t Dead-en the enthusiasm for Saturday’s headliner not to mention five other acts who jammed and powered up sets on a relocated stage for the annual street party. Browse the photo galleryand watch video highlights from Saturday’s big party at Local Spins.
Concert announcements · Playlists · Summer Concerts
The Thursday night series on the Grand Rapids Art Museum terrace boasts seven weeks of performances by Michigan stars, including Yolonda Lavender, Organissimo, Fauxgrass, Earth Radio and others. See the full schedule at Local Spins and check out a Spotify playlist of songs from GRAM on the Green artists.
This month’s Local Spins segment on Michigan Radio’s “Stateside” lent an ear to a rising Southwest Michigan star and two psych-rock bands from Grand Rapids. Listen to the podcast and more from Dacia Bridges, Lazy Genius and Suzies.
Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows
Summer festival season is in full gear, plus there are riveting shows this week featuring Reverend Horton Heat, Trevor Hall, Davina & The Vagabonds (this week’s Local Spins ticket giveaway), some terrific local music showcases and the kickoff of several outdoor concert series. Get the lowdown on this week’s West Michigan concerts, plus some tantalizing Under-the-Radar Picks.
The second Meijer Gardens show of the 2018 season delivered heartfelt classics from a legendary singer, with help from opener Rachel Curtis. Read the review, browse the photo gallery, check out the set list from Sunday night’s show at Local Spins.
Podcasts · RSVP Music Chat · Videos
Maurice Townsend visited Ralston & Sink’s Virtual Podcast to recap his Top 15 experience during “American Idol” and his work with low-income youth as music director for New City Kids. Listen to the podcast and watch a video from Townsend’s “American Idol” run.
Concert announcements · Summer Concerts · Upcoming shows
The weeknight series starring regional acts will also feature Kathy Lamar, Lipstick Jodi, Hollywood Makeout, Six-Pak, Eric Engblade, Watching for Foxes and more. See the full schedule at Local Spins and find out why bands love playing this series.
Concert announcements · Summer Festivals
The 11th annual street party on June 16 boasts a Grateful Dead cover band and emerging indie acts with Desmond Jones and FBC All-Stars adding local flavor. Get the lowdown and ticket links — plus check out videos of the featured bands — at Local Spins.
Big List Concert Guide · Upcoming shows
A busy West Michigan week of live music boasts release shows for Lady Ace Boogie and The Native Howl, plus intriguing appearances by The Sauce, The Outer Vibe, House of Hamill, Theatre Bizarre Orchestra, 1964 The Tribute and much more. Get the lowdown on all of this week’s big shows on The Big List and a full roster of upcoming concerts via ‘On the Horizon.’
Concert announcements · Summer Concerts
Starting in late June, the Interlochen Arts Festival southwest of Traverse City will unfurl with more than two dozen concerts covering a wide range of genres. Get the full lineup and ticket prices at Local Spins.
Breaking music news · Concert announcements · Summer Concerts
Plenty of familiar names grace the 30-concert bill, including Trombone Shorty, The Decemberists, Temptations, Beach Boys, B-52s, Seal and Styx. Huey Lewis’ July 8 show has been canceled and he will be replaced by Michael Franti & Spearhead. Get details and the full Meijer Gardens series schedule at Local Spins.
Artist Spotlights · Local Spins on WYCE · Podcasts · Videos
The Grand Rapids band, which plays Wealthy Theatre on Wednesday, powered up its dance-happy music for Local Spins on WYCE, which also premiered new tracks by Lady Ace Boogie, Lazy Genius, Angela Josephine, Shawn Butzin, Silverstiles, ESME and more. Watch the in-studio video, listen to the podcast, read the Artist Spotlight feature.
Audio · Breaking music news · Hot Top 5
Grand Rapids’ genre-melding neo-soul band Earth Radio hit No. 1 last month, with Public Access, The Bootstrap Boys and Shane Tripp making their first appearances on the radio chart. Check out the new Top 5, with audio samples from all of the releases. And see a list of all the new local and regional albums added to WYCE’s rotation.
The March roundup of new regional releases boasts a mix of styles: rock, folk, outlaw country, funk, soul, jazz and fusion music. Read the reviews, listen to the music.
