Mid-Michigan’s Electronic Music Scene: A Rhythmic Revival
Mid-Michigan is experiencing a vibrant resurgence in its electronic music scene, providing a pulse that resonates through its late-night dance floors. The energy is palpable, with DJs pumping out beats and crowds swaying together in unison. It’s alive, inviting, and embodies the heart of the community.
The Thriving Epicenter: Lansing
At the forefront of this revival is Lansing, where artists are sharing their sounds, and audiences are eagerly showing up. One of the standout events in this prosperous ecosystem is “Wavelength,” a weekly electronic music series that has found its home at The Green Door every Wednesday evening. This series showcases an eclectic mix of talented DJs, especially those from the Greater Lansing area, making it a true gem in the local scene.
Behind the Scenes: Big Sherm
Big Sherm is the mastermind behind Wavelength, serving as its curator and organizer. He describes the event as more than just a weekly gig; it’s a “community event and record label” focusing on fostering connections within the underground electronic music scene across Lansing and the broader Midwest.
Sherm’s vision for Wavelength is to bring back the nostalgic vibes of early techno and house shows, marrying them with contemporary elements to create a unique space for fans, DJs, and producers alike. “The goal was to provide a platform where everyone could connect and grow,” he explains, highlighting the importance of collaboration within the music community.
Curating the Perfect Lineup
When it comes to curating the lineup, Sherm’s approach is thoughtful and intentional. He aims to feature at least one artist from another city each week—be it Detroit, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Flint, or Ann Arbor—coupled with local talent. This strategy not only enriches the experience for attendees but also helps interlink communities, creating a collective culture centered around electronic music.
“Connecting artists to build lifelong relationships through music gives me great satisfaction,” Sherm shares. At Wavelength, attendees have the unique opportunity to meet fellow electronic music enthusiasts—a gathering of like-minded individuals who share an admiration for the genre.
Special Events on the Calendar
April 29 marks a significant date for Wavelength, as it will host a compilation release party highlighting local producers, including Sherm himself. This nearly 20-track compilation signifies the rapid growth and flourishing creativity within Lansing’s electronic scene. “The electronic music scene in Lansing has been excelling at an amazing rate,” Big Sherm remarks, reflecting on the influx of new crews, events, and artists pushing the culture forward.
As the global awareness of Michigan’s contributions to electronic music continues to grow—especially in techno and house genres—the local scene in Lansing is positioning itself as a pivotal player. “We’re all blessed to be in such a strong location for this music,” he adds.
Each Wednesday, Wavelength continues to enchant audiences with a stellar lineup. On April 29, the energy will rise with featured performers like Frankie Far, Chad Hammond, Jay Arthur, KDUBBS, and URFQKZ (Big Sherm), who will deliver an evening filled with techno, tech-house, and groovy beats.
Event Details
- Event: Wavelength featuring Frankie Far, Chad Hammond, Jay Arthur, KDUBBS, and URFQKZ (Big Sherm)
- Genre: Techno, Tech-house
- Date & Time: 8 p.m., Wednesday, April 29
- Location: The Green Door, Lansing
- More Info: For updates and more details, follow Wavelength on Instagram and Facebook.
A Broader Musical Landscape: Folk Music’s Presence
While electronic music pulses through Lansing, the city also hosts a variety of musical genres. On April 24, the acclaimed contemporary folk artist Lucy Kaplansky will grace UrbanBeat, presenting a different kind of auditory experience.
- Event: Folk singer-songwriter Lucy Kaplansky
- Date & Time: 7:30 p.m., Friday, April 24
- Location: UrbanBeat, Lansing
- More Info: Visit Ten Pound Fiddle for ticket details.
The blend of electronic, folk, and various genres highlights the diversity of talent thriving in Mid-Michigan. This lively cultural landscape invites both locals and visitors to engage with live music experiences that echo the spirit of collaboration and creativity.
About the Author: Freelance reporter Anne Erickson covers local music for the Lansing State Journal and has extensive experience reporting for various publications. She welcomes inquiries for coverage through email at ashleyanne777@yahoo.com.
