Summer of 09: Music Festivals in Michigan

The state of Michigan has always had its hand, or mitten rather, in the world of music. From the earliest hits of Motown featuring such rising stars as Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, Aretha Franklin, and Marvin Gaye, to some of the hard rock bands like Alice Cooper, Ted Nugent, and Iggy Pop, and even some notable hip hop acts like Eminem and D-12. Beyond the mainstream music, Michigan also boasts some great underground techno and hardcore scenes, as well.

In an attempt to embrace all styles of music that is offered throughout the state, and even nationally, there have been several popular music festivals setting their roots right here in Michigan. Some center around one particular theme or style of music, while others try to bring together musical genres from all over the world. One thing is for sure though - no matter which music festival you attend in the state of Michigan, you're sure to have a good time; and here is just a few of the music festivals that you might want to attend this summer.

Detroit Electronic Music Festival (DEMF)
May 23 - 25, 2009
Detroit, MI

Making its debut in the year 2000, festival organizers knew immediately that they had a hit on their hands when attendance estimates topped 1 million people over the course of the original 3 days. It has been an annual event ever since, with no plans on stopping in the near future. Some of the acts for 2009 include Bassnectar, Carl Cox, Delano Smith, Glitch Mob, RJD-2, and plenty more.

Rothbury Festival
July 3 - 6, 2009
Rothbury, MI
www.rothburyfestival.com

The Rothbury Festival sort of came out of nowhere in 2008, even for those who follow the festival scene. But despite some financial issues, including the bankruptcy of the festival's venue, the Double JJ Ranch and Resort, the Rothbury Festival will makes it return to the Double JJ Ranch for 4th of July Weekend with such acts as The Dead (their only summer performance), Bob Dylan, String Cheese Incident (their only 2009 performance), Damian Marley & Nas, G. Love and Special Sauce and many more.

Wheatland Music Festival
September 7 - 9, 2009
Remus, MI
www.wheatlandmusic.org

Celebrating nearly 40 years, the annual Wheatland Music Festival is a tradition for many Michigan families. Taking place near Remus, Michigan, Wheatland focuses on old fashioned bluegrass, folk, and Americana music, while blending in some dance routines by groups from all around the world. The 2009 Wheatland lineup includes The Steel Drivers, Detour Bluegrass, The Red Stick Ramblers, and many others.