Detroit has tight-ties with rock-and-roll. From local legends and edgy fashions to sacred venues and party anthems inspired by the city — “Detroit Rock City,” anyone? — we can’t get enough. Luckily, starting this month, the sounds of rock-and-roll will vibrate through Detroit once again when Chevrolet Rockin’ on the Riverfront returns to GM Plaza for its 14th annual summer concert series.
The six-week event starts July 12 and runs through Aug. 16. Shows begin at 7:30 p.m. and will take place over six consecutive summer Fridays. Headliners include a variety of rock-and-roll artists, including The Marshall Tucker Band on July 12, Grammy-award winning Soul Asylum on July 26, and Loverboy on Aug. 2.
To kick things off each Friday night, one winner of WCSX’s Rockin’ Wars competition — a contest, hosted by the classic rock station 94.7 WCSX, in which six local rock bands were selected to rock out on the riverfront stage — will perform a 30-minute set. Openers include the Birds of Prey on July 12, The Harponics on July 26, and Feed the Monster on Aug. 9. In addition, the top-voted child performer of the WCSX’s My Kid Rocks! competition will sing alongside the Little River Band on Aug. 16.
Viewing space is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs, blankets, and arrive as early as 5:00 p.m. to claim seating. Boaters may anchor near the riverfront and watch the concerts from the water. As a thank-you to veterans, the GM RenCen and WCSX will offer those who served exclusive seating in a Veterans Row.
No outside food or coolers are permitted. However, concert-goers can enjoy refreshments and food concessions provided by Italian restaurant Andiamo Detroit Riverfront. Attendees are also encouraged to explore the surrounding area.
“Chevrolet Rockin’ on the Riverfront is one of Detroit’s most popular free concert series,” says Paul Edwards, U.S. vice president of Chevrolet Marketing. “Every summer the Riverwalk comes to life with concert-goers who often extend their concert experience by staying at the Detroit Marriott and dining at one of the GM RenCen’s restaurants.”
Admission to the event is available at no cost. Parking is open at the GM surface lot for $5. For more information about Chevrolet Rockin’ on the Riverfront, visit gmrencen.com.
From The Archive: The White Stripes’ Spare Style Draws a Long Line of Followers
|
|
|
