We’ve got everything from orchestral renditions of Journey’s greatest hits to parties that won’t stop until the sun rises this week in Metro Detroit. The lights may come down in every other city, but here in Detroit, they’re always going up. 

Upcoming events (April 23 – 30)

Keith Harring: Subway Drawings 

Elaine L. Jacob Gallery

April 17 – August 15

Free

Put on your most elegant pair of painter’s jeans and get ready to take a dive into the world of artistic vandalism. From April to August, the Elaine L. Jacob Gallery at Wayne State University will be hosting an exhibition composed of 25 subway drawings created by Keith Harring between 1980 and 1985. “Art is for everyone,” so be sure to take this opportunity to see one of America’s most prolific artists. The gallery is open from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, while the hours shift to 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Fridays. 

Undergrad Art Exhibition 

Wayne State Art Department Gallery

April 24 – May 8

Free

Break out the strolling shoes, practice your hand-behind-the-back smolder and embrace your inner art critic. Over the course of the next three weeks, Wayne State University will be holding its 2026 undergraduate exhibition showcasing fine arts, art history and design. This collection is an emphasis on the student’s ability to go beyond the confines of what we see as contemporary art. The opening reception will be held from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., with the gallery being open Wednesdays and Thursdays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. 

Open Studio/ Gallery at Wayne State 

480 W Hancock St, Detroit

April 24

$7 – 10

But if that’s just not enough art for you, if you’re a real division 1 yearner and you’re looking for something more to sink your creative canines into, this Friday, the Wayne State University Graduate Artist Coalition is hosting an open studio and gallery event coinciding with the opening reception of the undergraduate exhibition. In addition to the ceramics, industrial design and paintings, there will also be live music as well as refreshments. The event will be held from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.  

12 Hour Party 

Marble Bar & Lincoln Factory

April 24

$50

Caffeine and ample water consumption are going to become your most trusted compatriots this weekend as you fight the urge to pass out with your tenacity to groove. This Friday, Marble Bar is teaming up with Lincoln Factory to bring you a 12-hour set consisting of 4 different stages across both venues. Stages will be both indoors and outdoors, with performances from DOME SURVEY, Ayesha, Matthew Dear, Bruno Schmidt and more. The event is set to begin at 9 p.m. and end at 9 a.m. And don’t forget the five-hour energy. 

Specter 

TBA

April 25

$29+

Normally, I’d say something along the lines of, “house and acid are commencing a takeover this weekend,” but take over where? The location hasn’t even been disclosed yet… I suppose this week’s motto should be “eh, take a chance.” At least you know which horses you’ll be betting on. This Saturday, Chicago native Specter is headlining the Sleep Olympics booth with Sugar, Shigeto, Meftah and 2000 Avalon on deck. The event will begin at 10 p.m. and it will go until 7 a.m. Boy, we are just screwing with your sleep schedule, aren’t we?  

Cuffing SZN 

Big Pink

April 25

$23

The neon beacons and the beckons of R&B are calling you home this weekend, to your true home, with all of us wonderful degenerates in tow. Pull through to Big Pink this Saturday to immerse yourself in 2000s throwbacks and bumping dance rhythms. DJ Selfie, Completd and Chuck Inglish are spinning tracks to get you making questionable decisions until the wee hours of the night, but you know what Austin Butler’s mother always used to say, “embarrassment is an underexplored emotion, get out there and make a fool of yourself.” This event is set to begin at 10 p.m. and goes until 2 a.m. 

Oakland University Film Showcase 

Dodge Hall

April 26

Free

But, if stationary art and house shows dont pique your interest, perhaps you’ll feel better suited supporting local filmmakers at Oakland University’s 2026 film showcase. The English, creative writing and film departments have united to bring you a night filled with narrative, experimental and documentary short films. So, make the trek out to Rochester and don’t forget the popcorn. And don’t worry, this event starts at 3 p.m. and goes until 6 p.m. for you “normal sleep pattern” people. 

The Music of Journey 

Orchestra Hall

April 24-26

$21+

If it wasn’t the music itself and it was simply that it didn’t have enough elegance whilst also reminding you of your father who grew up in the 80s, you’re in for a treat pal. This weekend the Detroit Symphony Orchestra is hosting an orchestral tribute to one of rock’s most notorious bands: Journey. The beauty of this performance is set to make sure you’re the one who’s crying now. The event begins at 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, with a 3 p.m. Sunday performance as well.  

Jay Electronica 

The Crofoot Festival Grounds

April 25

$23+

Or, if you just felt there wasn’t enough grit in your meal this week, New Orleans native Jay Electronica is slated to perform alongside Detroit heavy hitter Boldy James this Saturday in Pontiac and you’re not going to want to miss this. These two emcees are making history this weekend, and I don’t need to give you Exhibit A through C to show you that it’d be pitiful of you to skip out. The concert is set to begin at 7 p.m.  

We’ve got everything from live Looney Tunes scores to 7 a.m. DJ sets this week, so be ready to brace for that falling anvil and make sure you’ve got your daily intake of coffee because it’s gonna be a wild ride.

Upcoming events (April 16 – 23)

Paradise Lost 

Hilberry Gateway

April 17 – 26

$15 – 25

Take a journey down to the Hilberry Gateway in Midtown to witness Wayne State’s biblically epic rendition of Erin Shields’ “Paradise Lost.” This performance reimagines one of history’s most tantalizing tales by challenging our general idea of what good and evil are while delving into aspects of oppression, rebellion and knowledge. There are weekday shows ranging from 2 p.m. or 7 p.m., as well as weekend shows which begin at either 3 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. 

Detroit Artists Market 

4719 Woodward Ave, Detroit, Michigan 48201

April 17 – May 16

Free

Come down to the Detroit Artists Market to see the student finalists from Cranbrook Art Academy face off for the opportunity to be awarded the John F. Korachis Scholarship. This is the 60th Annual Scholarship and Awards Exhibition put on by the academy and this year, there are 10 finalists—3 of whom will receive this esteemed scholarship—showcasing paintings as well as sculptures. This event is a month-long and is available to the public between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. each day.   

World Music Concert 

Varner Recital Hall

April 17

$7 – 10

Take a ride out to Rochester this Friday to immerse yourself in African and Caribbean culture with performances by Oakland University’s African Ensemble and Steel Band, featuring Haruna Walusimbi, royal musician of the Busoga and Buganda kingdoms in Uganda. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. and runs until 9:30 p.m. 

Bugs Bunny at the Symphony 

Detroit Opera House

April 18 – 19

$48+

It may be a few weeks past the end of rabbit season here in Michigan, but fortunately, it’s opened up once again for this weekend only. Grab your Stormy Kromer hat, your hunter’s orange and book it down to the Detroit Opera House on the back of a roadrunner because you’re not gonna want to miss this cartoonishly nostalgic performance.

This Saturday and Sunday, 17 episodes of classic Looney Tunes will be played on the big screen while a symphony plays the iconic scores live for your enjoyment. This performance will also feature the world premiere of a new animated short celebrating Bugs Bunny’s 85th birthday. The event begins at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday. 

The Magical Music of Harry Potter 

Music Hall Center

April 16

$50+

Hop on your broom or your griffin and whisk yourself down to the Music Hall Center in downtown Detroit to be enchanted with the sorcerous sounds of the wizarding world. This Thursday, “The Magical Music of Harry Potter” is coming to spellbind you to the edge of your seat as you’re carried through an expedition of your childhood. The event begins at 4:30 p.m. 

DJANGOPHONIQUE 

Cliff Bell’s

April 16 – 18

$25

If you’re looking for something a bit smoother, well, you’ve stumbled upon silk, my friend. DJANGOPHONIQUE is an award-winning project that is nurturing the Hot Club revival right now. The sounds present transport you to another time, one where you’re a bit more centered and perhaps even Parisian. Think of it like Midnight in Detroit and you get to be Owen Wilson. Local Spins even deemed it the “Most genuine manouche jazz that can be heard in Michigan.” Showtimes are at 7:30 p.m. as well as 9:30 p.m. 

New Dawn 

Big Pink

April 18

$23

You know the deal. Lace up those Chucks and bolt over to the Eastside’s neon warehouse once again for some of the greatest Afrobeat, Afrohouse and Ampiano this city has to offer. Get ready to grab a drink and shift continents as DJs Yung D, Blakito, Marine and Getboxed spin tracks deep into the night. The event begins at 10 p.m. and ends at 2 a.m. 

fcukers 

Lincoln Factory

April 17

$29+

Hop, skip and jump over to Lincoln Factory this Friday for a legendary performance by New York-based electronic band fcukers as they combine forces with indie rock band Sex Week. This event begins at 8 p.m. and ends at 2 a.m.  

Orbit 

TBA

April 18

$22+

Get your caffeine in order and blast off to a currently undisclosed location this weekend as the co-founder of Swedish label Studio Barnhus Axel Boman is set to deliver his solo debut with a three-hour performance that’s sure to leave you floating out of your body by the end, from sleep deprivation, of course... The show will be opened by DJs clairvoyant, Mister Joshooa and Secrets. This event goes from 11 p.m. until 7 a.m., so pack a set of pajamas and a toothbrush. 

We all know music can be a powerful conduit to tell stories, exchange energies and connect across cultures. One note can paint a thousand pictures or tell thousand year old histories. 

Xiao Dong Wei is an internationally recognized erhu master. Her journey into music began in China at the tender age of 5. Her work has taken her across the globe and landed her in the Detroit area. 

She blends traditional Chinese instrumentation with contemporary styles like jazz, rock, and orchestral performance, playing over 20 instruments.

On April 24, 2026, the Michigan Philharmonic presents “Sounds of the Pacific Rim,”. It invites audiences to explore the sounds of the Oscar-winning score for Ang Lee’s Oscar-winning film “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.”

The concert creates a space for global conversation with local connections. A pre-concert talk, featuring Pacific Rim instruments, erhu, and Japanese taiko drums. 

Xiao will also premiere her own piece “Hometown Reflections.” Xiao and Charles Ezra Ferrell joined The Metro to talk more about her music and global connections in Detroit. 

Listen to The Metro weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on 101.9 FM and streaming on demand.

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We’ve got everything from jazz vocalists to Memphis rappers this week, so be ready to put on your cufflinks, but don’t forget the Three 6 Mafia-themed pocket square

Upcoming events (April 9 – 16)

The Saunderson Brothers 

Big Pink

April 10

$23

We know that last week we let down you house heads and now we’re here to repay our debt. This weekend, electronic music is practically flooding the Eastside and we’ve got your snorkel and flippers. The Saunderson brothers are slinging out house tracks like Waffle House slapjacks in a B2B set with Slimey so lace up those non-slip shoes and get ready to step into the kitchen. This event starts at 10 p.m. and goes until 2 a.m. 

SHIFT 

Spot Lite

April 11

$23+

Urban Pulse reacquaints with Spot Lite this weekend, bringing the heart of Berlin to Detroit. Headliner Lars Huismann is delivering atmospheric German techno that’s reminiscent of the old days but continues to carve a clear path in today’s scene. He’s also joined by DJs Redax, JANSØ, Austin Buck and KHONSHU. Whether you’re sporting a pair of lederhosen or dressing like you’re ready for Berghain, embrace the sounds of the Fatherland and get grooving. This event begins at 10 p.m. and goes until 3 a.m. 

Siren: Girls on Wax 

Paris Bar

April 11

$17

Slide down Six Mile over to Hamtramck’s Paris Bar to catch Chicago native Inés spin deep–cut disco vinyl until you can’t remember whether you’re in Michigan or France. She’s also joined by an all-femme roster of DJs, including angel baskets, Savannah G and Auntie Chanel. This event goes from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. 

Golden Grizzly and Blue Grizzly Jazz Singers 

Varner Recital Hall

April 12

$7-10

Perhaps last week’s hiatus from house and techno was a breath of fresh air for some folks and don’t worry, because we’ve still got you stuck on our minds like spaghetti sauce on a Tupperware container. This Sunday, Oakland University’s Golden Grizzly and Blue Grizzly vocal groups are coming together for an energetic jazz ensemble set to leave your ears as soothed as a massage. This event begins at 7 p.m. and goes until 9 p.m. 

Northern Lights Festival 

Orchestra Hall

April 9-11

$21

Oh and we’re not done with the classics just yet. This weekend, take a rickshaw ride downtown to Orchestra Hall to hear the beauty emanate from the Northern Lights Festival. The performance will be led by Principal Guest Conductor Tabita Berglund as you dive into a Nordic soundscape. The hall will be filled with birdsongs as the violinist Johan Dalene puts his bow to the grindstone in Sibelius’s violin concerto. The event begins at 8 p.m. 

Project Pat 

Diamondback Music Hall

April 10

$38+

This weekend, the mane who’s down for his crown returns to bring that Memphis heat to Southeast Michigan. Project Pat is making a stop in Van Buren Charter Township as part two of his Redemption Tour, so get out there and bring your iced tea… but leave the nine’s and TEC’s at home. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m. 

Visceral Soup 

22North

April 11-12

Free

If the music isn’t appealing to you this week, sneak out to Ypsilanti for a calm yet vibrant vibe supporting Michigan artists. 22North art gallery is teaming up with Eastern Michigan University to put on their 10th exhibition, “Visceral Soup.” The show will feature work from 11 of EMU’s Master of Fine Arts students exploring the world of ceramics, painting and mixed media. The gallery is open Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. 

Microwave 

Majestic Theatre

April 10

$42+

Atlanta-based rock band Microwave is making their way to Detroit as they tour with Anthony Green, Hunny and Into It. Over It. They’ve recently released a 10th anniversary version of their 2016 album Much Love, and it’s time to show them how much love our city has to offer. The show begins at 7 p.m. If you’re not there, we’re going to assume you went to see Air Fryer instead and while we don’t entirely condemn that move, we will be judging semi-silently. 

Concrete Boys 

Saint Andrews Hall

April 11

$35

The Concrete Boys are back in Detroit this weekend for their This Is Us Vol. 2 tour at Saint Andrews Hall downtown. The group, made up of Lil Yachty, Draft Day, Camo!, Honest and more recently dropped their second album, a sequel to their first project and now it’s time to break out those hard hats and prepare for the mosh pit. The concert begins at 8 p.m. 

The music once sung by enslaved Africans is foundational to modern Christian and Gospel music. The music that was once used to give hope is preserved in various places throughout the co untry, including right here in Detroit. 

In 1972, The Brazeal Dennard Chorale was founded by Brazeal Dennard, an American educator and arranger. He wanted to discover new musicians while preserving the spiritual music of the African American experience and culture.

On the evening of October 29, 1978 in Detroit, the first Classical Roots Concert happened on the eastside. The concert included the best musicians in the area, local leaders and spiritual leaders.

Dr. Daniel Washington is a bass-baritone and tenured Professor of Music – Voice at the University of Michigan. Dr. Washington is also a board member for the National Association of Negro Musicians (NANM) and president of the Detroit Musicians Association.

LaToya Cross is the Communications and Advancement Content Specialist at DSO. Both join Tia Graham on The Metro to talk more about the exhibition and the importance of diversity within classical music.

Listen to The Metro weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on 101.9 FM and streaming on demand.

Subscribe to The Metro on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

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