After almost 30 years of being known as Madman Mike, I finally changed my business name to better reflect my DJ Service plus Music and Entertainment Information Service in Michigan.
Called myself Madman Mike because I intensely care about doing outstanding DJ work for your weddings and special events, plus having the the number one Music Information resource for Michigan (this website).
Madman meant going above and beyond what was expected of my music business. But with the recent shootings and other heinous acts, too many people misunderstood the meaning of that name so it got changed it to one that is instantly recognized for music and entertainment.
For those of you who have known me for many years and will always call me Madman Mike (Your Musical Slave) in a music good way, use my Personal Connection on Facebook, link is in blog box at top of this page. That personal connection on Facebook is also my current music blog.
November 7, 2011 – Monday
A BIG Thank You is going out to Angela Huber of Huber Sports and Entertainment LLC for sending the new JoCaine "American Made" CD to me. JoCaine – a Detroit Country Artist rising star – is opening up for Bret Michaels at the Emerald Theater in Mt. Clemens on Saturday, November 12, 2011. Music on the cd is pure "Detroit Country".
May 11, 2011 – Wednesday
A lot of bands and musicians have gotten rid of their websites and are using Facebook. During their transition, they stopped using their e-mail lists. Contacted some and all told me to join facebook to know what they're doing and would keep me updated on where they are playing. They said: "No Facebook, No Updates". So I had to join. Got on it in late December, 2010. Check me out, say hi!
Recently received many CDs from Michigan bands and musicians. THANK YOU. Info was posted on facebook but will try add their info here in the future for those who are not on facebook.
November 8, 2010 – Monday
Did you ever endure a long stretch where you are busy all day long, every day? Just finished one since my last post.
Without mentiong everything, let's just say DJ wedding season, starting to convert over 4,000 of my CDs to MP3, new computers, new updated computer programs (learning curve!), switched to a new enternet service provider, switched to a new business phone service, Four More Power Outages in the last two months, yada, yada, yada. WHEW!
And that no smoking anywhere thing... many bars and private clubs (think charity) are having a tough time making ends meet. Some are going under. And when winter hits... how many smokers will spend their hard earned money to drive somewhere just to stand outside in the freezing cold to smoke?
Private clubs and bars should have the choice to be smoke-free, not forced into it. Detroit's casinos (public and for profit) are allowed to have smoking but private non-profit and small bars are not? Only idiots and those on the take make laws penalizing private clubs that give to charity but makes exceptions for their gambling buddies.
My Point? Smokers in general are big supporters of live music entertainment. Less they spend, less money is available for bars and organizations to pay locally performing bands musicians and singers. Let the places and patrons choose whether to allow smoking - not the damn government.
June 16, 2010 - Wednesday
Effective June 13, 2010
WIRELESS MIC'S WITHIN THE 700 MHZ BAND ARE ILLEGAL TO USE
700 MHZ range is now to be used only by public safety entities - emergency services, police, fire, etc., and by commercial providers of wireless services.
info at → FCC.gov - WIRELESS MICROPHONES IN THE 700 MHZ BAND ARE PROHIBITED
Except for the aforementioned exceptions, no wireless mic between 698 MHZ to 806MHZ, handheld or clip-on, is allowed to be used. Another day, another government law forcing us to spend more money. I had to buy a brand new handheld wireless microphone. The one I had worked perfectly, but the FCC just made it illegal for me to use. If you are caught using one - anywhere in the U.S. - you will be breaking a federal law, and fined.
Remind every band, musician, singer, hall, banquet center, church, sound rental service and others to check their mic's so they don't get in trouble with the federal government.
So today I went to Guitar Center (Southfield Store) to get my new one. "John in Audio" knew the FCC situation, was ready with enough wireless mic's in stock, handheld and clip-on, to handle a lot of us. John was great, knows his stuff. And the prices are fantastic - in spite of the new law they didn't them jack up! If you need a new wireless mic go to the Guitar Center Southfield Store on Northwestern Hwy north of 12 Mile and ask for "John in Audio". Tell him Madman Mike says HI and I'll be back soon.
May 28, 2010 - Friday
Hope everyone enjoys Memorial Day Weekend.
To all who have served and are serving our country - THANK YOU.
Movement Electronic Music Festival is this weekend sat-sun-mon in Downtown Detroit. There is an admission charge.
Power went out at my house twice in the last seven days. No storms, no hot weather, just an unfortunate fact of life when living in Metro Detroit.
Received a CD from 'tude vox Ro. Details posted soon.
The new no smoking law? It put an end to my Party Crew. Where do smokers go to party?
March 31, 2010 - Wednesday
Luck Media located in California sent to me the 6 song debut CD "Chasin The Sun" [2009] from Detroit based rock singer songwriter Susan Calloway. Wow! She's got the national sound, and by that I mean several signature pop-rock songs that should be prime time - major radio, MTV/VH1, etc., in the quality style of an Avril Lavigne. She's already had songs played on TV shows, won over 12 Detroit Music Awards, and title track from this EP could put her over the top. Could Susan be the next local artist to National? I say the sooner the better!
Re: Where Have You Been?
Wanted to do my "Checking Out Local Bands Tour" January through March in Metro Detroit, but... ran out of money. My apologies to the bands and musicians who I promised to catch their shows. I have been the DJ at - and attended - soooo many charity events for individual people and families swamped with medical bills, lost job and might lose their house, etc., that I kept donating money to them.
It's a tough time in Metro Detroit. These people were/are in a desperate situation so I chose to help them as best I could. Unfortunately, had no money left to catch your shows. And I know many of you also donated your time to perform at charity events and understand exactly what I'm talking about. You have earned a Big THANK YOU from me and the families you helped. Hopefully, I will be able to attend your shows later this year.
Detroit Music Awards and Ceremony is friday April 16, 2010. www.detroitmusicawards.net
January 1, 2010 - Friday
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
Internet Music TV Show Update: not going to happen. Show was a great idea, coming along even better than expected, but the production facility turned out to be inadequate. Bummer.
August 23, 2009 - Sunday
A Big Thank You to Tracy Kash Thomas (The Tracy Kash Band) from Detroit for two of her jazz CDs "Some Strong Potion" and "There And Back Again". Wow, Tracy has a smooth, crystal-clear voice. Tunes are original, a cross between jazz and crossover pop. In my opinion better than Diana Krall. If you enjoy female jazz/pop vocalists, There And Back Again CD is a must own. A Future Headliner Thumbs up!
A Big Thank You to the ShovelByrds band from Metro Detroit for their "...blame it on the jack" CD. It has a retro-rock sound that makes me want to go out and experience this band live - with a girl on my arm and a stiff drink in my hand. And that is exactly how I will check out one of their shows in the near future. A note to Cap'n Happy: I'm coming to see your band. Thumbs up!
A Big Thank You to The Infatuations band from Detroit for their "January Sessions" 5 song EP CD. It's a blend of dance/pop/rock/funk that gets your feet headed out the door to visit them at a dance/show club. CD sounded so good, wish there were more songs on it. Thumbs up!
August 11, 2009 - Tuesday
I apologize for not having posted anything in a long time. Been waaaaaaay too busy. But now I'm back to updating this page on a consistent basis with info about local music CDs sent to me and my new attempt to host a fast-paced weekly Internet Music TV Show that will feature local bands, musicians, music venues, local tunes and videos, awards, contests, bizarre segments, more.
The Pilot - first show - is scheduled to start filming around the end of this month or sometime after Labor Day. Hoping to air it by end of September 2009. Spread The Word - tell bands musicians they can be featured and plug their music or make a brief celebrity appearance, ask your favorite music bar to host a segment of our show or an After Show party.
Show will be filmed and produced by Memory Lane Productions
Details for getting on the show will get posted soon. This is not local cable, meaning the show can be seen by everybody - everywhere around the world - on the internet.
April 23, 2009 - Thursday
CONGRATS to all the winners of Detroit Music Awards 2009. What a glorious night! I was sitting with Cody Sheldon and his entourage (all women, of course). Cody was a contestant on American Idol this year. Our table was next to the one with members of the famous Rare Earth band. Got to see Ted Nugent reunited with The Amboy Dukes performing several of their big tunes. It was a virtual who's who of the local music world in Metro Detroit and Southeast Michigan. To check out the DMA winners, click awards link.
And a big Thank You to all those I partied with at DMA After-Hours parties. I say you all deserve my personal Party Awards for this year! Classy People, Great Bartenders, Great Drinks.
April 11, 2009 - Saturday
On Friday, April 17th, I'm attending the Detroit Music Awards 2009 at The Fillmore Detroit. And I'll be seated at a VIP table! This annual Grammy style celebration recognizes and honors talented musicians in the Metropolitan Detroit area. It is open to the public, General Admission $20, tickets available from DMA website. You can rub elbows with some of the biggest music names in the area, go to after hours parties, all while supporting local musicians.
An apology: I'm way behind on listening to local music CDs and posting their information here. My home stereo recently bit the dust. In todays economy, plus all the money I've blown at local charity events and music events, temporarily haven't got money to replace it. Trying to use my computer to check out those CDs but it's not the same. Can't experience the full sound. Hoping to get at least a basic home stereo in the next couple of weeks.
Speaking of charity events, I'll be the MC and also DJ'ing between band performances for several fundraisers coming up in the next couple of months in Redford (west side of Detroit). Some are for individual families down on their luck and dealing with huge medical bills, one is for a person who may not live long enough for his scheduled June fundraiser.
I will be donating my time and DJ Service for free at each one. Any family friendly bands (non-swearing), music personalities and celebrities willing to donate their time and make a featured appearance at any of these fundraisers, please contact me. These good people can't afford nor have connections to get tv, radio or newspaper plugs and desperately need our help.
We won't get major media recognition. All I can offer you is the heartfelt gratitude of each family and my personal admiration. But this is an opportunity to directly help individual families during their heart-breaking times. Please consider making a celebrity guest appearance or performing.
On the lighter side...
A BIG THANK YOU to all who send in music CDs of local Michigan Music Artists. Can't get enough so send any that you want me to have in my collection. Original CDs only, no burned copies, and if possible... autographed by the musicians.
March 14, 2009 - Saturday
Tonight: Going to see Circus Boy at the Magic Stick on Woodward Ave in Detroit. Sid says they have a CD waiting for me, autographed by the whole band! I'll be there around 11pm.
As usual, blew a ton of money at the Blowout. Always worth it but don't have much left for tonight then St. Patrick's Day this coming Tuesday. Should I advertise... Will DJ For Drinks?
Received an autographed promo CD (before final mix) from Stealing Allan's Rights (S.A.R.) band. Thank You! When checking out music on a P.A. system as compared to headphones or computer speakers (streaming tunes or 256 downloads), CDs are the best way to go.
March 3, 2009 - Tuesday
It's Here! → Metro Times Blowout 12 → March 4-7, 2009 (Wednesday through Saturday nights)
My favorite annual Music Slavin', Bar Hoppin, Original Music good time. All Michigan Musicians Performing Their Own Tunes. 200 Bands, 15 Venues, 4 Days starting with a wednesday pre-party bash at the Majestic in Detroit followed by the next three nights in Hamtramck which borders Detroit. I will be there every night as usual.
Admission is only $20 per-person. You pay $20 once and you get a wristband that gets you into every venue on all four nights including the pre-party. Call it a one-time cover charge good for 4 nights at 15 different venues. And you get to choose which bands you want to see or the type of place you enjoy the most!
If you see me there, don't hesitate to say HI. If I know where I'll be at a specific time, info will get posted on Party Crew page, link up top on the right.
January 22, 2009 - Thursday
It's time to attend the 8th Annual Ferndale Blues Festival - Jan 23-31, 9 Days, 60 Performances at 22 Venues all located near 9 Mile & Woodward (about a mile north of Detroit). Free shuttle buses on Fri & Sat. Most performances are free but make a donation if you can because all proceeds go to charity. I will be bar hoppin' on several nights during this fest in order to see more than one show a night. If you see me there, say HI.
Party Crew page has when I check out a Ferndale Blues Fest band at a specific time & place.
Prefer Hardcore Metal? Motor City Metalfest '09 is this sat (Jan 24th) at Harpo's in Detroit. 20 bands, $12 cover. 313-824-1700.
January 15, 2009 - Thursday
Checking out the Redford Station Band this saturday (Jan 17th) at the Play by Play Pub in Redford, on Telegraph Rd just north of Plymouth Rd.
Due to a forecast of below zero temperatures fri-sat, this is not an official party crew night. Just letting you know that it takes more than unusually cold weather to stop The Madman from his appointed music rounds!
Jan 17th update: now the forecast includes up to 6 inches of snow tonight. Again?!
Jan 18th update: got around 6 inches of snow but still made it to Play By Play Pub. Chrissie (barmaid), Gene, Jimmy V of the SlowBurn band, plus the good music of Redford Station band featuring frontman Yogi created a great party night.
January 11, 2009 - Sunday
Charlene Kaye and her music
Listened to Charlene Kaye's "Things I Will Need In The Past" CD [2008]. It's intoxicating. Charlene has an outstanding voice which is pure spot-on in every song. Her music doesn't fit into a specific genre, but does run along the line of folk/pop to easy listening, incorporating acoustic to full band. Been a long time since I've heard someone creating this type of music who is this good.
She is an accomplished musician and singer/songwriter from Ann Arbor, but it's her vocals that are just simply intoxicating. If looking for music where you can clearly understand the words, has meaningful lyrics accompanied by pleasing melodies, songs where nobody screams at you, get this CD. Complete info about her and cd/downloads → www.myspace.com/charlenekayemusic
January 11, 2009 - Sunday
Party Crew Nights? Recently it seems that every time one gets scheduled, a major snowstorm or unusually bad weather happens on the same day! Last weekend, Jan 9-10, starting fri afternoon into sat night we got 4 to 8+ inches of snow in Metro Detroit. And since budgets have been cut for plowing streets and salting roads, can't ask other people to drive to and from bars just to join me when I'm checking out bands and live music entertainment.
Will try again for this fri or sat, Jan 16th or 17th (or maybe both nights!).
January 2, 2009 - Friday
Happy New Year !
Hoping to start Party Crew Nights again the weekend of Jan 9-10. Reviews of some local CDs recently sent to me are coming within a few days. Didn't have time during the holiday season to give them the serious listen they deserve.
Thank You to DJ Maestro for sending his "Ballroom Hustle 202", a CD music and DVD instructional video featuring the famous Obama Hustle, Cleveland Slide, O 2 Da Z Hustle and many more. Everybody can get these songs and more at cdbaby.com/cd/ballroomhustle202
December 17, 2008 - Wednesday
A group of local millwrights give their views about The Detroit Lions situation in Christmas holiday parody songs, all are clean versions → LosingLions.com
December 1, 2008 - Monday
Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. Did you see the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition TV Show yesterday about the Nickless family in Holt, MI? I had the honor of being the DJ for the volunteers Oct. 3rd wrap-up party! Those volunteers really are an impressive group of people to be around. And yes, some of the Design Team stars made an appearance at the party.
Since my last post, a lot of wonderful people got married. It was a priviledge to have been their Wedding DJ and congratulations to all.
Received Local CDs! One each from Charlene Kaye, an indie musician/singer/songwriter - and - National Ghost (NG), a new rock band featuring experienced members from other bands. Reviews of their CDs coming soon.
Having a CD Release Party in Michigan? I'll be glad to post your information on my Music Events page, link up top.
check out: Tiger Stadium Tribute Music Video performed by Detroit rock band The Shy.
Woodward - indie pop-rock band from Metro Detroit, donated their "But Your Kids Are Gonna Love It" cd to add to my local music collection. Thank You! I can envision their music in many tv and movie soundtracks, plus being played a lot on maistream radio. These guys are good! I need to check them out performing live - willing to bet they're just as impressive.
Free Will - indie rock band from Flint, donated their "Million Miles Loud" cd (ep) to add to my local music collection. Thank You! Songs are intense and high energy, makes me want to experience their live performance. Let's see... add Captain Morgan, a place to crash, time to go catch some serious rock in the Flint area! Tim & Teri (Publik Parking) got a spare room?
Congratulations to Lonnie & Heather - Married! It was an honor to have been your wedding DJ.
Congratulations to Adam & Samantha - Married! It was an honor to have been your wedding DJ.
Happy birthday to Arlene M! - Glad to have been the DJ at your surprise b-day party.
June 16, 2008 - Monday
Congratulations to Chris & Angela who got married last saturday. It was a priviledge for me to have been their wedding DJ. Also great to again see Ryan & Liz, Glen & Donna, and rest of the family. What a grand entrance... bride and groom wanted to enter to the music and sounds of the car chase scene in the movie Bullitt, the one with Steve McQueen. So I rented the movie on dvd, hooked my laptop to DJ Console/P.A. System and played the car chase complete with the actual music and background car chase sounds straight form the movie, introduced the wedding party with Chris & Angela receiving a standing ovation. A glorious day was had by all, especially for the bride & groom!
Between my Dad's recent hip replacement surgery, my DJ business, and various charity work I volunteered for, I've been too busy for just about anything else. Need to schedule a Party Crew Night really soon so I can bust loose! We'll go experience a good party band at a bar, do some drinkin' and dancin', tell some stories and bad jokes. And by the way, people are continuing to ask to be put on our party crew email list. COOL.
June 10, 2008 - Tuesday
Like to vote on cool stuff in your area? AOL is doing it's "2008 City's Best - Dining & Nightlife" and voting ends July 10th. If you want to vote for Metro Detroit Bars, Drinks, Live Music, Dance Clubs, Restaurants and more, click »» AOL City's Best - Detroit. It's the only city listed for Michigan and with just a total of 30 cities listed, many states are left out. Winners Announced July 22, 2008.
Congratulations to Dan & Kelly who got married last saturday. It was a priviledge for me to have been their wedding DJ. Kenton Smith - a professional bagpiper in Metro Detroit, expertly performed bagpipes music for the ceremony and grand entrance. It was a glorious day for the bride & groom!
May 19, 2008 - Monday
What a weekend. On Friday, I received a Detroit Special Olympics Volunteer of The Year award that was presented to me by Martha Reeves (of Martha Reeves and The Vandellas)! Was thrilled to meet her in person! And the Freep (Detroit Free Press) followed up with a local article on me.
On Sunday, for 14 hours I was the DJ and MC for a Mooseheart charity fundraiser where I heard and met the David Winans PI (pi - the math symbol) Band that plays a blend of rock/funk/fusion and experienced the incredibly funny music show of Brian Bosman.
Winans name sound familiar? You're right. His family name is huge in gospel music but his band in definitely not in the gospel genre. Every band member is extremely talented, guitar/sax/bass-keyboard/drums, plus David and all members of his band are down to earth, cool, classy people. Same goes for Brian. I personally give them a Big THANK YOU for performing at this charity event where proceeds go to help kids.
April 21, 2008 - Monday
Detroit Music Awards this Friday, April 25th! I'm attending, getting my general admission tickets today. Some people were late paying for my DJ Service which then caused me to miss out on main floor tables. Arrrgghh! If you also want to attend this, tickets are general admission $20, up to $1,000 for VIP table, details on website including scheduled performers. It's at the Fillmore Detroit (formerly the State Theatre).
Probably not doing the Tom Petty Ticket Giveaway. As it turns out, a for-profit promotional company wanted me to spend many hours working for them for free while they get all the credit and glory. Plus they wanted free advertising on several high profile pages of my website, and promote them through my e-mail lists. I gladly music slave for all of you but hustlers have to do their own work! (unless they make it worth my time).
[June 1, 2008 update: found out later that the Tom Petty Ticket Giveaway promoters were not hustlers and were willing to do the work - Cool! Maybe people who check out my music events page will get a chance at something good in the future.]
I now have "DJ Maestro presents Steve Jackson's Ballroom Hustle 101" cd by Metro Detroit's DJ Maestro. It features the popular "Turbo Hustle". Could have downloaded just the song but I wanted the whole CD. Turbo Hustle is like a blend of the Tootsie Roll, Cupid Shuffle and the Cha-Cha Slide.
April 3, 2008 - Thursday
Received two more CDs from Michigan Music Artists! Thank You's go to the K-Wild band and to Deep River featuring Kim Longworth! They are now proudly listed in my growing local music collection. Still blows my mind how incredibly talented the musicians are here in Michigan.
K-Wild - an all original rock band from mid/western MI generously donated two of their "Paris Project" cds. This band has recorded some serious intense hard rock. By serious, I mean sound quality of their cd is great, their original tunes rival those of national names and they are already deserving of major radio air-play. Band is touring and seems ready for the big time. For hard rock fans, I recommend getting this cd which is available from their website.
Kim Longworth donated a Deep River band cd titled "Iron Ponies". Kim is the lead singer, they are based northwest of Ann Arbor. When you think of smooth folk music, this is a perfect example. Her vocals are an easy pleasant treat for our ears. To get the cd, you will need to send an email to her requesting one, email link is provided with Deep River listing on local music collection page.
Party Crew Night last friday was a blast. Bar was packed early, some showed up but left because all seats were taken before 9pm, before the band's first set started! No Crew Night this weekend because on friday I'm attending a fundraiser to help out a friend's family, saturday I'm the DJ for a wedding reception, sunday all afternoon I'll be the DJ/announcement guy for a Relay For Life spaghetti dinner fundraiser in Dearborn.
March 31, 2008 - Monday
Detroit Tigers Opening Day - Go Tigers!
March 26, 2008 - Wednesday
Hey Everybody! Been awhile, too long for a blog. I'll explain why later but first let's get caught up.
Was recently asked if I would be interested in using this website in a promotional giveaway of two tickets to an upcoming Tom Petty show at The Palace of Aurburn Hills. My answer: Let's Do It! stay tuned.
This Friday - March 28 - Party Crew Night. It's also going to be a mini Warrendale Bar-Hoppers Reunion with all of us who survived Jimmy Jams, Walsh's On The Border, and other bars on the strip. It's happening at Razzles bar on Joy Rd west of Inkster and the entertainment is the Pan-Fried Mojo band. Everyone invited 21+, No Cover Charge, and you don't have to know us. For details, click Party Crew link at top of this page.
Voting on nominations for Detroit Music Awards 2008 (DMA 2008) HAS STARTED.
Voting ends April 4th, awards ceremony on April 25th. You must be registered and logged into the DMA site to participate in the voting process. I'm in time-consuming music slavin' heaven. Can't quickly vote because I have this insane idea of wanting to check out nominees, listening to as many of their tunes as possible, and going over my notes on local music artists during this past year.
Since my previous post ...
Did you know that this site now has over 800 bands and musicians IN MICHIGAN listed? Link up top. Takes a lot of time to check each website before it gets listed but well worth it. Lots of Party Crew Nights coming.
Behind the scenes DJ work has me running my tail off having meetings all over Metro Detroit with a lot of people considering hiring me for their weddings, class reunions and charity fundraisers. No complaints - this is a normal wonderful time of year. Also had to download current versions of iTunes, Napster, Norton Security, Adobe Reader and other computer programs meaning there was endless restarting of my computers. Willing to bet many of you had to go through the same thing. Add updating one third of this website (80+ pages), plus moving extra DJ equip from one storage area to another, and on and on ... but the good news is that things are now caught up and up-to-date. Back to Music Slavin' for You!
March 8, 2008 - Saturday
DISCOVERED WHAT SHOULD BE THE NEXT BAND TO MAKE IT NATIONAL AND HUGE.
I am going on record to predict this - so mark my words and the date.
The band is Novada - a modern rock band from Metro Detroit. Their sound is a blend of Jammin' Detroit Rock and Brit-Pop. Take the time RIGHT NOW to hear some of their songs at www.myspace.com/novada or download them from 
Their shows have an energy and stage presence that is riveting. No chance of boredom while watching or listening to this band. Nothing lame and their original music seriously jams! Think of blending the music of U2, The Killers, Goo Goo Dolls and Modern English and you have an idea of what this band can do.
RECORD COMPANIES AND MAJOR RECORD LABELS - Don't screw up by letting your competition sign them first. NOVADA is a band with the perfect demographic and a mass marketing, polished sound. If this band stays together, they have the songwriting ability, addictive sound, look and potential to reach the levels of artists such as Matchbox Twenty and U2 in terms of national radio airplay, downloads and CD sales. You need to sign them asap. Go to their myspace page and listen. Here's a link to their EPK.
FOR ALL OF US IN MICHIGAN
Novada has an 11 song CD "These White Lies Die With Us" which I recommend you get. Already got mine and band took the time to autograph it after their show last night at the Metro Times Blowout (venue: New Dodge lounge). CD and songs are available at iTunes. Get to know this band while they're still local. I personally believe this band already has the talent for the national stage. We have the enviable opportunity to enjoy their shows now with local cover charges before they get signed to a major label then paying headline touring concert prices. They're already opening up for Sponge.
Took a picture of the band last night performing at the New Dodge and will show it right here within a few days. Once again, to Novada, thank you for taking the time to autograph CDs and pose for pictures after your show. Just like The Muggs, these guys are also the ambassadors of cool, and ... THEY ROCK.
- - - - - - -
Metro Times Blowout 11 Continues - TONIGHT (sat) at 11pm I will be at the the Knights of Columbus Hall (on Conant south of Caniff) to see Scott Morgan and Powertrane with featured performer Mitch Ryder. If this show ends in time, might catch Broadzilla at the New Dodge since they're scheduled to start at 1am.
If you see me at the Blowout, SAY HI. You can ask people at the door checking for Blowout wristbands - at any venue - to find out if I'm there. At least you've been warned where I'll be from 11pm till close. Boo-Yah !
March 7, 2008 - Friday
Metro Times Blowout 11 wed-sat this week (March 5-8). TONIGHT - starting at the New Dodge lounge around 10pm. At 1am will be at the Knights of Columbus Hall to see The Detroit Cobras perform. In between, who knows? It's a bar hoppin', music slavin', picture takin', wicked good time!
Last night The Muggs band (Danny, Tony, Matt) took the time after their show to personally autograph their self-titled "The Muggs" 2005 CD for me (I also got their "Live Underground Concert Series" DVD). Even after being on national TV, these guys are still the ambassadors of cool. And of course, THEY ROCK !
Also had the honor of meeting Pappa Toe www.myspace.com/pappatoe as we were both enjoying The Muggs show. He's very passionate about - and supports - all types of original local rock. Give this dude two thumbs up!
If you see me at the Blowout, SAY HI. You can ask people at the door checking for Blowout wristbands - at any venue - to find out if I'm there. At least you've been warned where I'm starting and ending up.
March 6, 2008 - Thursday
It's the Metro Times Blowout 11 wed-sat this week (March 5-8). Attended the Launch Party last night at the Majestic Theatre Complex in Detroit, now it's time for real music slavin' doing venue hopping (bar hoppin') in Hamtramck these next three nights. It's all Michigan local bands and musicians, over 200 performances at 20 venues in Hamtramck which is located just north of Downtown Detroit. COST: One $20 wristband that gets you into each venue every night - think of it as a one-time cover charge for the whole 4 day event.
When you see me there, SAY HI. Tonight I'm starting at Paycheck's Lounge around 9:30pm. At midnight I'll be at the Knights of Columbus Hall to see The Muggs perform. In between, who knows? It's a bar hoppin', music slavin', picture takin', wicked good time!
February 29, 2008 - Friday
It's Friday, it's snowing, time to shovel the driveway again. Looking forward to getting out tonight & sat. Just hanging out with friends at various places (bar hopping?) and catching a couple different bands but won't know which ones till just before heading out. No official party crew night this week.
»» March 1st starts the Nominations Phase for this year's Detroit Music Awards being held on April 25th. Submissions Phase ended Feb 23rd. For details, click link above under blog heading.
Get ready for the Metro Times Blowout 11 on March 5-8. I will be there all four nights. It's all Michigan local bands and musicians, over 200 performances at 20 venues in Hamtramck (except the Launch Party). Hamtramck is located just north of Downtown Detroit. COST: One $20 wristband that gets you into each venue, every night including the Launch Party. Party Crew will be invited to start those nights with me at a different location each night. To be notified by e-mail, see info at Party Crew link on top right of this page.
February 27, 2008 - Wednesday
Party Crew Night Follow-Up from last saturday coming soon. Been completely tied up with DSL trouble, helping my Dad with his computer after it crashed, and way too many things that all hit at the same time. Since bad luck wanted to pick on me for a while - hope everybody else was getting good luck!
That DSL trouble has caused all kinds of problems with not being able to post on this blog, return e-mails, update my websites, and get information from other websites. I know many of you have gone through a lot worse which is a scary thought when much of your job depends on a good internet connection. I'll be dumping Earthlink because that can't fix the problem and switching to either Comcast or AT&T - which also happen to be known for their own problems. From the frying pan into the fire. What a choice.
I'm back online, give me a few days to get caught up. Next Party Crew Night is still undecided.
February 17, 2008 - Sunday
Party Crew Night Follow-Up.
Last night at the Token Lounge I got blown away with an intense dose of local "in your face" hard rock/metal. It was Detroit style Loud, Proud and Struttin. Performances were given by Killin Machine, Lemon James, WildSide, a guest screaming rock band, and an opening band. Joey Jett of the Killin Machine band is still regarded as one of the fastest rock guitarists on the planet. Lemon James, also a rock guitarist extraodinaire, with her band performed a high energy Hendrix style rock/blues set, and she posed for picture with me. Thanks Lemon! WildSide band slammed covers to finish the night. Add in the "Mod" birthday party, night was a true rock event. Was great talking to Joey again, been too long since the last time.
Quick note about the Token Lounge... no waitresses! at least not last night - a saturday.
My Party Crew Nights bounce from one type of music to another, to different types of venues to all areas within Metro Detroit. Music Tastes vary, so when I'm checking out bands/venues pick the nights that you enjoy then come and have fun with us. Coming Up This Saturday - a Retro 80's Night! It's time to check out the Mega 80's show band at the Magic Bag in Ferndale. For details, click Party Crew link on top right of this page.
Caught up with Captain Mark (Midnight Mark), guitarist/singer formerly of the Midnight Run band and the Cherry Street Band. Though metal is not his first choice of music, he and his wife Lori showed up and hung out with the hard rock side of our party crew for more than half the night. Videotaping Killin Machine was Party Chuck formerly of Jimmy Jams, Student Body Lounge / Washes On The Border, First Edition, Chicks, a.k.a. one of the "Warrendale Bar Hopping Crew". Hadn't seen Chuck since my Longshots DJ gig and hadn't seen Mark since his Cherry Street Band performed at Razzle's bar around this time last year.
Speaking of Jimmy Jams, Captain Mark and Party Chuck think it's time - THIS YEAR - to have a ...
Jimmy Jams / Walshes On The Border / Student Body Lounge - Reunion Bash. Getting together with people who partied at those bars around the time that Madman Mike was a Featured DJ on the Warrendale strip. Idea is to all hook up at a bar that will appreciate us and where we hear OUR favorite party tunes.
Remember Sugar Shorts, Boozy Suzy, K-Toe, Two Steppin Sandy, Shaunee, Sami, Joe & Jenny, Jimmy, Greg Walsh, Chuck G and his annual neighborhood party, and way too many awesome people to mention now? Think reunion is a good idea? If you went to any of those three bars (they don't exist now), send comments by e-mail »» click here
February 13, 2008 - Wednesday
PARTY CREW NEWS »» Benny of Benny and The Jets has offered free passes to all of our party crew for a combination Comedy Club/Vip After Bar/Benny and The Jets one night package. Let's get a few more people on our party crew e-mail list and take him up on his offer.
Now I got another tune stuck in my head that won't go away till I pull out the CD and crank it LOUD. Tune is Dumb Girls by Benny and The Jets from Detroit. Hear the song for free on Benny's myspace page.
Made it to the Detroit Music Awards / Motor City Music Foundation meeting last night. A lot of people couldn't make it because of the snow and what's up with that? Recently it seems that every time I try to schedule a party crew night, go to an important meeting, or want to check out musicians on a open jam night, it snows! Hope all of you are having better luck.
Speaking of luck ... hope everybody gets lucky this Valentines week. Oh Yeah!
February 12, 2008 - Tuesday
Party Crew Night is set for saturday of this week. 4 bands, one place, one night. We are checking out the hard rock metal band Killin Machine featuring shredding guitarist Joey Jett, Lemon James (Hendix style rock/blues), Wildside and The Krumbz at the Token Lounge located on the south side of Joy Rd between Inkster & Middlebelt. Click Party Crew link on top right of this page for details.
Tonight: Hoping to attend the Detroit Music Awards / Motor City Music Foundation general membership meeting at Specs Howard in Southfield.
Great Music last Saturday at Memphis Smoke. The Alligators kicked off the first set then turned night into a jam session with many musicians and singers taking turns on stage. Will post a few pictures soon.
February 9, 2008 - Saturday
Been insanely busy all week. Hoping to attend tonight's Detroit Blues Society (DBS) meeting at Memphis Smoke bar in Oak Park. Yes, they hold meetings in bars with local live blues following. Is that cool or what? tonight - The Alligators. Music at the Detroit's Winter Blast is also going this weekend featuring many local bands on several stages. If you see me there, say HI!
February 4, 2008 - Monday
Party Crew Night Feb 2nd at Bumpers Bar in Westland: Cruizin' Jupiter band gets a big Thumbs Up! So does my waitress Rhonda and another waitress Heather - thanks for outstanding service. Band doesn't waste time between songs. High Energy Party Rock is what they're all about!
February 2, 2008 - Saturday
Party Crew Night Tonight! Checking out the Cruizin' Jupiter band at Bumpers Bar in Westland. Click Party Crew link on top right of this page for details.
Got two tunes currently stuck in my head that won't go away till I pull out the CD and crank it loud. A subconcious reaction to the Kilpatrick/Beatty fiasco?
Tunes are ... Nobody In Detroit and Funky Daddy by the Howling Diablos from their "Howling Diablos Live" CD. They're a popular funk/rock band from Detroit.
Amazing. Considering all the great music from national artists, most tunes that get stuck playing inside my head are from our outstanding local artists. Just received two CDs, one from Ed Palmer and another from Goatalion. Thank You! Will listen to both and post comments soon.
January 31, 2008 - Thursday
Was going to send out the first Party Crew Night e-mail yesterday letting people know what band and bar for this Friday night. Earlier in the week, forecast was for maybe 2 to 4 inches of snow on friday. Now they're predicting up to 10 inches?!!! What's up with that? Time for a change of plans. Will check out a band on Saturday if I'm not snowed in. Click Party Crew link on top right of this page for posted updates.
Got another tune stuck in my head that won't go away till I pull out the CD and crank it loud. Tune is ... Mixed Drinks by J-Me! (Jaime) from her "The Girl Next Door" CD. She's a hip-hop artist from Caro, MI.
January 29, 2008 - Tuesday
Bands and Musicians page (link at top of page) was mentioned today in the Detroit Free Press newspaper (The Freep) on page 2A under the heading "Five Things About Unusual Music" (sub-heading "In Michigan").
January 28, 2008 - Monday
Received in the mail an autographed CD from Ron Gay. Thanks Ron! He is an acoustic folk singer/songwriter from Pontiac MI. Songs in the style of reflective easy-going music. Click name to see his myspace page.
January 27, 2008 - Sunday (MIKE'S FIRST POST - THE INAUGURAL)
Whenever possible, I check out all types local bands, musicians, entertainers. To find out when, where and who I'll be checking out, click Party Crew link at top of page. Everyone is welcome to stop by and say HI. Will spend the next several days deciding which band/bar to check out this coming weekend. To see my local music collection »» click here.
Ever get a tune stuck in your head and it won't go away till you hear it? Stuck in my head right now is ...
Ain't It All Right by James Wailin from his "Rhythm of Life" CD. That tune jams! Need to pull out my CD and crank it loud, really loud. James is currently with The Reefermen performing in Metro Detroit.
WOW. So many OUTSTANDING Musicians and cool things happening. I received the new Mark Farner (Mark Farner and Nr'G) CD "For The People". As you probably know, Mark Farner was with the world famous Grand Funk Railroad band from right here in Michigan. Mark Bowsher of Mark Farner Music sent the cd to me. Thank You! On this CD, Farner turns into "the Rock Patriot" and also kicks in some tunes about love. Music is in the style of classic rock (mainstream rock), CD sounds good.
Guess who knows A LOT about current local music? Rachel May. She is hooked up big-time with local music in Metro Detroit and gladly shares her knowledge with us through her thursday column in the Detroit Free Press in the Play section. Column is titled Local Music Highlights, a must-read for us music lovin' party people. Check out her band Broadzilla (rock) then go out and watch her perform.
If you want to be conveniently updated by e-mail about many Metro Detroit bands and bars, I recommend the Nightbeat News. Danny of the Yankeeville band puts it out once a month.
Feel free to browse my website. Several "In Michigan" Music links at top of page, even more at the bottom.
Comments? Send them to me by e-mail → click here
