By Vincent Khan
When most people think about Michigan musicians, the three names that come to mind are Madonna, Eminem, and Kid Rock. Madonna was first big around the ’80s, with Eminem and Kid Rock becoming popular ten years later in 1998 and 1999. Fast forward twenty years, and it’s 2022. Some would say that we are “double time” overdue for an artist to make it out of Michigan. Below are three artists I feel the area should keep their eye on in the coming years.
- Donald Benjamin Band
- Genre: Country
- Origin: Pinconning
Breaking out in 2002, the Donald Benjamin Band shattered all expectations with their 2002 debut project, “Destination Unknown.” The title track hit international radio, debuting on FOXSports Radio’s “JT the Brick Show,” earning the lead member Tony Thorton credibility as a songwriting talent. Calling themselves “the wolf of country music,” the band has expanded beyond those expectations sharing the stage at nationwide venues with famous names such Guns ‘N Roses, Chase Rice, Ryan Hurd, and others. To date, two of their highlighted songs are “The Cabin” and “Shake it For Me.” After giving some of their songs a listen, even though their music is not my cup of tea, I can see why their name has been on many people’s cell phones and speakers over the years.
- Hedge Row
- Genre: Rock
- Origin: Bay City
Within the past couple of years, a group of four young men has been making a name for themselves, performing at nearly all Bay City Bars. Even though mainly performing at local bars, the group has become a city-wide favorite by performing at numerous events during Bay City’s summertime festivals, attracting thousands of tourists. Their most advertised song is “Plastered,” pulling in 2,600 views to date, including a music video on their Facebook page.
- Bizzle O
- Genre: Rap
- Origin: Bay City
Going by the stage name of “Bizzle O,” Cortes Castillo is one of the most focused musicians throughout the Tri-City areas. His goals are set high with already co-establishing a record label with his right-hand man “2 Dolla”, who appears on many tracks with Bizzle. Bizzle O has numerous songs under his belt for the public to listen to. His SoundCloud and YouTube platforms are flooded with multiple songs for his fans to listen to while always discovering more content. His main inspirations are Two Live Crew and Luke Combs, who are on two different ends of the spectrums for music. Cortes said his record label’s (Champion Music) primary focus is making everyone better. He proves that statement by promoting open mics at Bemos Bar in Bay City. He is motivating all musicians in the city to come out, brush off their nerves and show their talents.
Supporting local artists from your area should not be overlooked by anyone. Seeing others achieve through their creativity inspires and enlightens the community. Next time you’re in a setting, and there is live music, please be respectful to the artist and be their biggest fan for the night. Here in Michigan, we are lucky enough to have a handful of award-winning artists we can proudly say were raised in the Mitten!