This Iconic Cafe In Michigan Is One Of The Coolest Place You'll Ever Hear Live Music
By Jack Springgate|Published August 07, 2023
×
Jack Springgate
Author
I'm proud to be from the great state of Michigan. I've lived in the Mitten several different times throughout my life spending time in all corners of it. My journeys took me up and down the Lake Michigan coast, out east to explore Detroit and Ann Arbor, and to the dense forests of the UP.
Before writing with Only In Your State, I worked as a local TV news reporter and anchor, most recently in South Bend. Many of the stories I covered took place in Southwest Michigan. My roots are even deeper in the Wolverine State as I often head to Kalamazoo to visit family.
When I'm not out exploring nature, I'm avidly watching sports. I specifically have a deep love for the Michigan Wolverines (my alma mater), and I get to write about them and several other Big Ten teams as and editor for Athlon Sports. I also love to enjoy the great outdoors with my wife and our dog, Piper.
I'm excited to share all my favorite Michigan destinations with you. Keep exploring.
Detroit isn’t just called Motown as a monicker for the Motor City, but also because of its history as the birthplace of Motown music back in the late fifties. That culture remains to this day, and there’s one particular club in Detroit that continues to nurture it. Once you step into Aretha’s Jazz Cafe, you’ll be transported back to the days when Motown flooded the airwaves, as they bring the soul of this city to life.
Located in the same building as the Music Hall Performing Arts Center, Aretha’s Jazz Cafe offers visitors a taste of what they can get in the main venue, but in a much more intimate setting. I’ve made it somewhat of a tradition to grab a drink here before seeing a show at the main stage, but I’ve also made several trips to Aretha’s where I’ve spent the whole night there.
I can spend hours at Aretha’s Jazz Cafe simply listening to the music born and raised here in the Motor City. They have professional artists booked nearly every weekend and several weekdays, whether those are original artists or ones bringing back the hits of Motown’s greatest legends.
The Music Hall, which houses Aretha’s, hosted some of its first performances back in the 1920s, originally named the Wilson Theatre. After some tough years during the depression, the iconic venue bounced back in the 50s and 60s and is now restored to its original appearance and use.
There’s not a bad seat in the house at Aretha’s. Guests come for the music, but they also stay for the delicious cocktails and light tasting menu to complement the sounds from the stage.
You’ll find musical talent in the most unlikely places. Aretha’s hosts open jazz jam sessions on a weekly basis to let those brave enough to step on stage show the city what they’ve got. I’d say these are some of the most exciting nights to attend because you never know what you’re going to get.
Aretha’s Jazz Cafe tells the story of the legendary musicians to come through the venue. The name of the venue honors none other than Aretha Franklin, who always wished to have a downtown Detroit venue that carried her legacy.
Whether it’s for the perfect romantic night on the town or a prelude to the main show at the Music Hall, guests at Aretha’s Jazz Cafe will undoubtedly get a taste of what built Motown and fostered generations of musicians and innovators to come. Make sure to follow Aretha’s Jazz Cafe online to find out who’s performing before you plan your trip.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
