Welcome to The Detroit Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Detroit Pistons home games

• Housing affordability is declining

• A deep-dive into the life of Stevie Wonder

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“The only person you should try to be better than is the person you were yesterday.”

- Matt Haig

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 street is famously known as the home of Motown Records' first headquarters?

A) Woodward Avenue

B) Michigan Avenue

C) Grand Boulevard

D) West Grand Boulevard

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:
The iconic product first created in Detroit by pharmacist James Vernor is C) Vernors Ginger Ale.

News

💼 Business

Detroit Means Business offers support hub locations to assist entrepreneurs.(link)

Small business help is available for entrepreneurs in Detroit. (link)

Butter-Nut Bakery to close in mid-April. The popular Metro Detroit bakery that’s permanently closing after 50 years. (link)


🏒 Sports

Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin is out 2 weeks with injury. (link)

Lions Re-Sign CB Emmanuel Moseley, Moseley played two snaps in 2023. (link)

Lions Gameday Experience at Ford Field Ranked Best in NFL. (link)

🏦 Finance

Canadian leaders visit Detroit side of Gordie Howe Bridge to talk financial impact. (link)

Housing affordability in metro Detroit declines 70% in 4 years. (link)

Joann bankruptcy talks could mean more pain for metro Detroit landlords. (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 Pistons vs. Charlotte Hornets
Little Caesars Arena Detroit, MI
Monday March 11 | 7:00 PM (more info)

🏀 Detroit Pistons vs. Toronto Raptors
Little Caesars Arena Detroit, MI
Wednesday March 13 | 7:00 PM (more info)

🏀 Detroit Red Wings vs. Buffalo Sabres
Little Caesars Arena, Detroit
Saturday March 16 | 12:30 PM (more info)

🏀 Pistons vs. Miami Heat (20th Anniversary of 2004 NBA Championship)
Little Caesars Arena, Detroit
Sunday Mar 17 | 3:00 PM (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Dead By April
The Sanctuary Detroit
Monday March 11 2024 | 7:00 PM (more info)

🎶 JP Saxe - A Grey Area Tour
The Shelter Detroit, MI
Tuesday March 12 | 7:00 PM (more info)

🎤 The Decibel Magazine Tour 2024
Magic Stick Detroit, MI
Thursday March 14 | 2024 6:30 PM (more info)

🎶 Ben Hemsley
Magic Stick Detroit, MI
Friday March 15 2024 | 9:00 PM (more info)

Family

🦊🎭  Disney Princess: The Concert 
Fox Theatre Detroit Detroit, MI
Wednesday March 13 | 7:00 PM (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 “A steampunk-themed Detroit with Victorian architecture” 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

1824 - The Erie Canal opens, increasing trade and population in Detroit.

In 1824, the opening of the Erie Canal marked a significant turning point in the history of Detroit. This monumental event brought about a dramatic increase in trade and population in the city, transforming it into a bustling hub of commerce and industry. The Erie Canal served as a vital link between the Great Lakes and the Atlantic Ocean, providing a cost-effective and efficient transportation route for goods and people. As a result, Detroit experienced a surge in economic growth and prosperity, attracting settlers and entrepreneurs eager to capitalize on the city's newfound opportunities.

The impact of the Erie Canal on Detroit's development was profound, as it facilitated the transportation of goods to and from the city, opening up new markets and expanding trade networks. The canal's accessibility and affordability made Detroit an attractive destination for merchants and manufacturers, leading to the establishment of thriving businesses and industries. This influx of economic activity fueled the city's expansion and contributed to its reputation as a key player in the regional and national economy.

Moreover, the population of Detroit swelled as a result of the Erie Canal's influence, drawing in immigrants and migrants seeking employment and a better way of life. The canal's role in connecting Detroit to the broader network of trade and commerce played a pivotal role in shaping the city's identity and laying the foundation for its future growth and prosperity.

Famous People From Detroit

Stevie Wonder (1950)

Stevie Wonder is an American musician and former child prodigy who became one of the most creative musical figures of the 20th century. Known for his exceptional talent as a singer, songwriter, and musician, Wonder's career has been marked by groundbreaking achievements and a lasting impact on the music industry.

Early Life and Musical Prodigy (1950s-1960s)

Stevland Hardaway Morris, known professionally as Stevie Wonder, was born on May 13, 1950, in Saginaw, Michigan. He attended Fitzgerald Elementary School in Detroit, where he began to showcase his musical abilities at a young age. After releasing his first album, "The Jazz Soul of Little Stevie" in 1962, he enrolled in the Michigan School for the Blind in Lansing, Michigan, where he continued to hone his musical talents.

Rise to Stardom and Musical Innovations (1960s-1970s)

In the 1960s, Wonder's career took off with a series of hit singles that showcased his remarkable vocal range and musical prowess. His ability to blend genres and experiment with new sounds set him apart as a true musical innovator. Albums like "Music of My Mind" and "Talking Book" solidified his reputation as a groundbreaking artist, with hits like "Superstition" and "You Are the Sunshine of My Life" becoming timeless classics.

Social and Political Activism (1970s-1980s)

During the 1970s and 1980s, Stevie Wonder used his platform to advocate for social and political causes, becoming a prominent voice for civil rights and social justice. His album "Songs in the Key of Life" addressed issues of love, spirituality, and social consciousness, earning critical acclaim and cementing his status as a musical legend with a powerful message.

Musical Legacy and Continued Influence (1990s-Present)

Stevie Wonder's influence on the music industry has continued to resonate into the present day. His contributions to soul, R&B, and pop music have inspired countless artists and musicians, and his impact on the industry is immeasurable. His timeless songs and enduring legacy have solidified his place as one of the most influential musicians of all time.

Connection to Detroit

Stevie Wonder's connection to Detroit is deeply rooted in his upbringing and early musical development. His time at Fitzgerald Elementary School in Detroit played a significant role in shaping his musical talents and laying the foundation for his future success as a musician.

Key Achievements of Stevie Wonder:

• Grammy Awards: Winner of numerous Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year and Best Male Pop Vocal Performance.

• Songwriting: Known for his exceptional songwriting skills, with hits that have become iconic anthems of the 20th century.

• Social Activism: Advocate for civil rights and social justice, using his music as a platform to address important social issues.

• Musical Innovation: Pioneered new sounds and genres, blending soul, R&B, and pop music in groundbreaking ways.

• Enduring Legacy: His music continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians and fans worldwide.

Stevie Wonder's story is one of musical genius, social activism, and a lasting impact on the music industry. His contributions to music and society have left an indelible mark, making him a true legend in the world of music.

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

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

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