If you are reading this and it is after Dec. 21, then the world has not ended and you are probably looking for something to do in the aftermath of what ever just happened (or didn’t happen).
One thing to consider over this weekend of pre-parties before the big New Year's Eve events is adding a little soul back into your life at the end of the year party for Grand Rapids Soul Club.
This monthly music event has not only been electrifying our local nightlife scene with its eclectic and rare soul and R&B programming, but our local promoters are also opening doors for guest DJs from Chicago and Detroit to showcase their talent in our market.
Also, it gives guest DJs a chance to take a look at the crowds. According to Mike Saunders, one of three DJs responsible for GRSC, “We have seen a definite uptick in attendance since we have started attracting a crowd that is diverse in age and race.”
Soul music is a big part of Michigan’s success with the advent of Detroit’s Motown, but Soul Club exposes guests to rare tracks, sometimes from an obscure Grand Rapids soul artist.
“Some folks are coming to get exposed to a culture and music that has been segregated from them,” says Saunders. “At the same time, we also get others who are relieved to find a night in Grand Rapids that plays funky and soulful jams that have been a part of their lives since they were children. I feel like we are just getting started in exposing the rich culture of soul music to Grand Rapids.”
While the December show will not have a guest DJ, look for a fun-filled night including a special promotional offer from Detroit's Hard Luck Candy at 11 p.m. A limited number of GRSC #6 CDs produced by the promoters will be for sale at this event.
Soul music brought a generation together and it appears this new 2012 fixture of the Grand Rapids nightlife scene shows no sign of slowing down. I cannot think of a better way to end the year than in the company of folks who dig and dance to soul music.
Admission: $5. (21+ event)
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