Telegram - Serving Metropolitan Detroit Since 1944

Detroit has some of the most iconic and legendary people, buildings and venues in the world. Seated right off the shore of the Detroit River, lies a majestic 6,000 person waterfront venue, called the Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre. A cultural jewel, it is a destination of choice for many recording artists and entertainment superstars from around the world, said, The Aretha. For many years, it was known as Chene Park Amphitheatre, until the death of Detroit's own, Queen of Soul, the late, Aretha Franklin. In 2019, it was rebranded to its new name.

In Detroit, if you take the time to dig deeply into the history, you'll find it to be filled with treasures and richness. You may even find out information that you've never known about. Case and point, it all began when Detroit's Mayor, the late Coleman Young, had the vision to use the site space to transform it into a beautiful waterfront development. He wanted the location to rival the Pine Knob, which is located in the suburbs.It was a part of his, Moving Detroit Forward...for Urban Economic Revitalization Plan back in the 1980s.

Now having been in existence for a little over four decades, this amazing waterfront venue is still going strong. Since inception, jazz music and its artists, have played a prominent role in the musical lineup all throughout the city, including The Aretha. Keeping up with its own tradition "Wednesday Jazzy Nights", takes place all summer long. Starting in the month of June and ending in the month of August. For many, being present and watching some of your favorite artists, there's nothing better! It's something about the sounds of the instruments mixed with the vocal talent of the artists.

As African American Music Appreciation Month, comes to a close,we must shine the spotlight on Ms. Shahida Mausi and her entire team. She is the President of The Right Productions Inc., and they are the force behind our summer long fun of listening to live music by African American artists. There is nothing like it!

Ms Shahida Mausi, President of The Right Productions, Inc. begins to work on the upcoming season of the The Aretha when the current season ends

When asked about the business side of things, Ms. Shahida said, with confidence that "The Aretha is the only venue that is managed and operated by an African American Owned company of it's size'. The Right Productions Inc., puts a lot of time into the planning of next year's summer season. In the fall, after the summer season has ended, they begin their planning. Ms. Shahida told the Telegram News that "We try to be mindful of the audience and the talent", so that is why it happens so quickly. She also told us after being asked, what does it mean now to have a new name, she replied, "Aretha is a legend and to carry her name is a big responsibility. We better honor her commitment to excellence". It is with that mindset and tenacity, that amazing shows are put on for all to experience.

If you've never been before, you must attend this year's season. The lineup is amazing. It includes Maxwell and Tamia, Jonathan Butler, PJ Morton, The Dramatics, O'Jays and the Manhattans and many more in July and August. Just visit, http://www.thearetha.com for more information.

Now for all of you concert goers, the Aretha has told, the Telegram News that there are some major updates. Before you head down to the waterfront, make sure to have access to a debit/credit card. Parking now is cashless. Also, the parking lot is no longer controlled by the venue. In addition, if you are visiting and you have a lawn ticket, you must bring your blanket not chairs. Lastly, there is a clear bag policy.

Enjoy your experience at The Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre.