Letter From the Editor

Welcome to Cherry Capital Beats!

If you found this, I'm guessing it's because you either love music, make music, put on music-related shows, or love someone who fits one (or all) of those three things. 

I fit the first box. Throughout my teenage years and into early adulthood, I noticed how often I would see a concert advertised, only to be in Grand Rapids or downstate near Detroit. While that's a worthy reason for a road trip in my mind, it becomes easy to forget just where those artists started--- and where our attention lacks.

A (poor-quality, iPhone) photo from my very first concert experience at The Fillmore in Detroit (2021.) AKA: Where I fell in love with live music.

Traverse City prides itself on its bars and brewery scene, where guests can often enjoy their drinks with someone strumming a guitar. Much of Traverse City's history lies in its locals, whose core memories were often staged under bright lights at places like North Bar, Union Street Station, or even Dill's Olde Town Saloon.

Places where local talent can shine. 

From our beloved fudgies to those of us who brave the sometimes-nasty winters, there's no doubt that without those artists, this city's nightlife would fade.

Cherry Capital Beats is my attempt at aiming a spotlight on those who are building their way up and giving Northern Michigan an "easy in" to concerts close to them, no matter what kind of genre and community they're seeking. From interviewing artists who are already loved to those just starting; delivering updates on favorite venues; and highlighting local music history, I hope to fill that gap between sparse audience seating and an empty weekend calendar.

Please reach out if you have ideas, questions, or fun musicians/venues/tidbits you'd like to see featured. This isn't a one-man endeavor. This is a community.

Thanks, and as always: support live music!

Sara.