Just when you thought nothing could be bigger than a weekend filled with PGA Championship golf, barbecue techno jams, and all sorts of great live music – we have a mayor in jail (whoa Kwame). As of press time for this column devoted to weekend debauchery, there have been no get-out-of-jail party announcements. But, considering the release is slated for the intriguing date of 8-8-8, let’s leave the thought of a Manoogian Mansion blowout as a possibility. ‘Til then, keep reaching for the stars … or just keep reading the highlights of this August weekend in the Notorious D-E-T.
Friday, Aug. 8
Bizarre
What: The D12 rapper has made waves on reality TV, has played in front of thousands of screaming fans through the world and has sold millions of records. Now the D-town/A-town mic master is taking it to TC’s Speakeasy for an intimate demonstration of his ferocious lyrical delivery.
Why: The charismatic character is dedicated to the craft and his fans, and we all know that raw Detroit rap is the ish.
Walk through the “Hannicap Circus” hurre.
Caribbean International Festival
What: The weekend trip down at Hart Plaza this weekend is a tropical Caribbean escape featuring an always entertaining mix of performances, cuisine, a beauty contest, a parade and more.
Why: The international sights and sounds will be good for the city’s soul...And we could use some good.
Open up and say ahh to a lil Caribbean culture by clicking this.
Musiq Soulchild
What: The Illadelphia funk and R&B multi-threat on the mic performer transcends categorization but is always fresh to def. And hitting Chene Park with Lyfe Jennings opening, this is bound to be one hot and sexy night of musical bliss.
Why: The neo-soul superstar is all that. You should bare witness.
Can I get an “Aijuwanaseing”? Two times… The Deets are here.
Ben Cyllus
What: Yes, yes – Ben calls Nashville home now, but he will always have a special place in his heart for Michigan (well, let’s hope so). Regardless, the singer-songwriter is showcasing his skills at the Bag and he’s bringing along quite the talented lineup, including Silent Violet, Last Tourist and Elise McCoy.
Why: It’s good to show some emotion once in a while, and lush soundscapes by these artists will certainly bring a beat to my cold heart.
Wear your heart on a six-string and play here.
Saturday, Aug. 9
Chopper Show Detroit
What: For the real biker enthusiasts, a chopper extravaganza featuring a slew of bands, babes, art, bikes and booze is all on tap at the historic Corktown Tavern.
Why: More than a half-dozen bands, featuring screaming tunes by Jack Oblivian; artwork on display from 20 artists, including Mark Arminski, and scorching hawt performances by Foxy Fearle$$, the Motor City Dolls Revue and so much more.
Rev those engines and break out your bikes and roll over here.
3rd Annual Back Pack Drive & House Music Picnic
What: Techno for a cause is always the best beat-down of all, and the third annual event is hitting Belle Isle for a day filled with good peoples, some of the best of Detroit’s DJ community (Alton Miller, Eric Johnson, Shake, Rick Wilhite and Norm Talley to name a few) and you know the barbecue is gonna be tasty.
Why: The event is all about the Detroit kids and all who journey are encouraged to bring back packs and school supplies…
Help the kids thrive while in school while dancing your troubles away here.
Buff1 CD Release Party
What: The underground hip-hopper is delivering his second full-length to the rabid fans of real music, and the CD release party at the Pig Saturday is gonna be another great opportunity to see some of the best talent this state has (and there is a ton).
Why: Buff1’s “There’s Only One” will be showcased, but the lineup is loaded with greats, including Athletic Mic League, Now On, Invincible and more.
Support your local hip-hop by going here.
Tonic’s Anniversary
What: Eight years of Pontiac partying with style and class and Metromix is thrilled to wish the crew a happy birthday. You should too and go blow out the candles and give them well wishes on this very special nightclub celebration weekend.
Why: Certainly the complimentary buffet, DJ Ryan Richards and host Nick Craig can lure you in.
Blow out them birthday candles here.
Soca Therapy
What: Pure gets down with the Caribbean Festival for a nightlife destination that complements the Hart Plaza festival. Featuring dance hall, reggaeton, soca and calypso, Surab Deb is handling the feel-good jams designed for the nightlifers looking for a little harder party than the day-time family-filled action.
Why: A vacation-vibe will take over the club and who couldn’t use a lil break?
Look for your “Caribbean Queen” (or king) here.
Holla at the Metromix Hammer at bjhammerstein@metromix.com.