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Welcome to The Detroit Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Detroit Tigers home games

• Ford backs Detroit Michigan downtown revival.

• A deep-dive into the life of Juan Atkins

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“The individual who says it is not possible should move out of the way of those doing it.”

— Tricia Cunningham

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Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

Which Detroit riverfront building, once the tallest in the city, was designed by the architectural firm of John and Donaldson?

A) The Book Cadillac Hotel

B) The Buhl Building

C) The Detroit Building

D) The Penobscot Building

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The birthplace of the Model T, which revolutionized the automotive industry, is A) Ford Piquette Avenue Plant.

News

💼 Business

Ford backs Detroit Michigan downtown revival. (link)

Thousands fill the streets of downtown Detroit for Motor City Pride. (link)

🏒 Sports

Lions Owner Sheila Hamp Named Michiganian of the Year. (link)

Detroit City FC women take down AFC Ann Arbor to pick up fifth win. (link)

🏦 Finance

Detroit riverfront leader has 'deep regret' for $40M going missing. (link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🐯 Detroit Tigers vs. Chicago White Sox
Comerica Park Detroit, MI
Friday June 21 | 6:40 PM | (more info)

⚽️ Detroit City FC vs. UNAM Pumas
Keyworth Stadium Hamtramck, MI
Saturday June 22 | 4:00 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎶Jhené Aiko: The Magic Hour Tour
Little Caesars Arena Detroit, MI
Wednesday June 19 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🎵 Concrete Boys
The Shelter Detroit, MI
Saturday June 22 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

Family

📚 Family Storytime
Elmwood Park Branch Library 550 Chene Detroit,
Wednesday, June 19 · 10:30 - 11am EDT | (more info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Detroitscape with a fusion of different historical eras.” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Detroit Historical Events

1959 - Berry Gordy Jr. founds Motown Records.

In 1959, Berry Gordy Jr. founded Motown Records in Detroit, marking the beginning of a legendary era in music history. With an $800 loan, Gordy established the record label under the name Tamla Records, later adding "Motown" to its name. This groundbreaking move laid the foundation for the development of some of the greatest R&B performers of the 1960s and '70s. Motown Records quickly became the most successful Black-owned music company in the United States, and its impact on the music industry was profound.

Under Gordy's leadership, Motown Records became synonymous with the ""Motown Sound,"" characterized by its distinctive blend of soul, pop, and R&B. The label's headquarters in Detroit became a hub for nurturing and developing talented artists, including iconic acts such as The Supremes, The Miracles, and many others. In 1972, Motown Records moved its headquarters to Los Angeles, but its legacy as a trailblazing force in music history remains deeply rooted in Detroit's cultural heritage.

Today, Motown Records stands as a testament to Berry Gordy Jr.'s visionary leadership and the enduring impact of Motown's contributions to the music industry. The label's influence on popular music, its role in promoting Black artists, and its timeless contributions to American culture continue to be celebrated and revered, making Motown Records an integral part of Detroit's rich musical legacy.

Famous People From Detroit

Juan Atkins (1962–): Musician and producer, known as the "Godfather of Techno

Juan Atkins: 1962–Present

Juan Atkins, also known as the "Godfather of Techno," is an influential musician and producer who played a pivotal role in shaping the electronic music genre. Born on December 9, 1962, in Detroit, Michigan, Atkins' innovative contributions to music have earned him the title of the original pioneer of Detroit techno.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings (1962-1970s)

Juan Atkins was born and raised on the east side of Detroit, where he developed a deep passion for music from a young age. His father, a concert promoter, exposed him to a diverse range of musical influences, laying the foundation for Atkins' future career in the music industry.

Exploration of Electronic Music (1980s)

In his teens, Atkins moved to Belleville, Michigan, where he attended Belleville High School. It was during this time that he befriended two individuals who shared his interest in a new style of music, sparking his curiosity and leading him down the path of experimenting with electronic music.

Pioneering Detroit Techno (1980s-1990s)

Atkins' impact on the music scene became evident as he delved into the world of electronic music, coining the name ""techno"" and laying the blueprint for the genre. His innovative approach to music production and DJing solidified his status as the "Godfather of Techno," with Mixmag describing him as the original pioneer of Detroit techno.

Influence and Legacy (2000s-Present)

Atkins' influence on the electronic music landscape has been enduring, with his work as a member of The Belleville Three, Cybotron, and Borderland leaving an indelible mark on the genre. His dedication to reinventing the future with techno has inspired countless musicians and continues to shape the evolution of electronic music.

Connection to Detroit

Atkins' upbringing in Detroit played a significant role in shaping his musical identity. The city's vibrant music scene and cultural influences provided the backdrop for his exploration of electronic music, ultimately leading to the birth of Detroit techno.

Key Achievements:

• Pioneered the Detroit techno genre and coined the name "techno."

• Influenced the evolution of electronic music as a member of The Belleville Three, Cybotron, and Borderland.

• Recognized as the "Godfather of Techno" and the original pioneer of Detroit techno.

• Continues to inspire and shape the future of electronic music with his innovative approach.

In summary, Juan Atkins' groundbreaking contributions to electronic music, particularly as the "Godfather of Techno," have solidified his legacy as a pioneering figure in the genre. His influence on the music industry, coupled with his connection to Detroit, has left an indelible mark on the evolution of electronic music, inspiring future generations of musicians and producers.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

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