Michigan’s winter music calendar is crammed with choice concerts.
A star-studded set of shows are on the slate at venues all across the state.
Here are the highlights from winter until the beginning of spring.
The king of New Jack Swing Keith Sweat comes to Mt. Pleasant for a special show at Soaring Eagle Casino Monday, December 30.
The six-time platinum performer is not to be missed.
Philly soulsters G. Love & Special Sauce brew their laid-back blend of beats at The Ark in Ann Arbor Tuesday, January 14.
They are an eclectic ensemble that puts on a spirited live performance.
Singer-songwriter Joy Oladokun will take her talents to the El Club in Southwest Detroit Saturday, January 18. Oladokun tours in support of her latest release, “Observations From a Crowded Room.”
Country chanteuse Kelsea Ballerini lands in Grand Rapids January 21 for a date at Van Andel Arena. She spotlights her new album, “Patterns” that dropped in October.
The U.P. welcomes 2011 American Idol winner Scotty McCreery in late January. McCreery will be at Island Resort & Casino in Harris on January 24.
The famed Ann Arbor Folk Festival is lined up for Friday and Saturday, January 24-25. An array of acts will perform at Hill Auditorium during this two-day affair. They include: Bruce Cockburn, Josh Ritter, Joy Clark, Toad the Wet Sprocket and more.
A George Gershwin Centennial Concert tops the marquee at Ann Arbor’s Michigan Theater January 26.
This will feature the Concerto in F for solo piano and orchestra, performed by pianist Tzu-Yin Huang. Written a century ago in 1925, this piece was commissioned by the legendary conductor and director Walter Damrosch.
The concert will also include a selection of musical theater songs and orchestral performances by the talented faculty and students of the University of Michigan School of Music, Theater and Dance.
World renowned trumpeter and bandleader Wynton Marsalis will be featured February 1 at Ann Arbor’s Hill Auditorium. Marsalis and his Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra deliver a night of music delights.
British Balladeer David Gray will play The Masonic Temple in Detroit on the same day. Gray hits the states as part of his “Past and Present Tour” with special guest Sierra Spirit.
Dr. Funkenstein George Clinton takes center stage February 6 at Detroit’s Sound Board Theater. Now is the chance to see the 83-year-old funk master, if you haven’t before.
Multi-platinum recording artists Rascal Flatts make an appearance at Grand Rapids’ Van Andel Arena February 15. The country chart toppers are in West Michigan for the winter leg of their Life Is a Highway revue.
Country crooner Clint Black is the main draw February 27 at Dow Event Center in Saginaw. Black marks the 35th anniversary of his dynamic debut record Killin’ Time.
That is no doubt a highlight of the season.
Gear up for Greensky Bluegrass at The Fillmore in Detroit March 6. The five-piece crew originally from Kalamazoo bring the thrills with their brand of specialized string skills.
Sonic shape shifter Elvis Costello is booked for March 8 at Michigan Theater of Ann Arbor. Costello brings his inimitable band the Impostors along with ace axeman Charlie Sexton.
Also March 8, an all-star night of rap is on tap at Detroit’s Little Caesars Arena, with Trey Songz, Rick Ross and Boosie Badazz on the bill. LCA is sure to be lit.
“Queen of Hip Hop Soul” Mary J. Blige is back at Little Caesars Arena with Ne-Yo March 19. The nine-time Grammy winner touches down in Motown with her “For My Fans” tour.
Jazz legend Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass are billed for March 25 at Masonic Temple of Detroit. Circle the date, this 89-year-old maestro’s show is one for the ages.
Electronic Dance Music Kings Kraftwerk embark on The 2025 Multimedia Tour, with a much anticipated stop at The Masonic March 28.
The German group's jaunt celebrates the 50th anniversary of Autobahn, a breakthrough album which saw electronic music gain a foothold in the United States.
Say goodbye to the winter blues. The annual Motor City Blues Festival is slated for March 29 at the Fox Theatre.
Tucka, Pokey Bear, Ronnie Bell and West Love are just a few national names under the lights on that noteworthy night.