Even as artificial intelligence threatens to infiltrate more and more of the entertainment industry, our West Michigan music community continues to prove how strong and irreplaceable it is, with this year’s Best of the West winners showing a true commitment to craft and community.
The Best Live Music Venue category remains one of the most competitive fields in the entire poll. This year, The Pyramid Scheme rises to the top, reaffirming its status as one of the area’s most beloved stages. Although it’s smaller in capacity, it has a larger-than-life legacy, bringing countless big names and cutting-edge acts up close and personal before they breakthrough, while also connecting closely with local bands and musicians directly. Joining it among the finalists again are GLC Live at 20 Monroe and The Intersection, two longtime concert destinations that have become perennial contenders in Best of the West voting. Together, the three venues demonstrate the depth and diversity of our live music landscape.
Festival culture remains equally vibrant in West Michigan, with Electric Forest once again claiming the top spot in Best Music Festival. More than a concert event, Electric Forest has become a cultural phenomenon, drawing fans from around the world to Rothbury for a weekend of music, art, and experiential excitement. Fellow finalists Breakaway and Upheaval – both held at Belknap Park – continue to strengthen Grand Rapids’ growing reputation as a festival destination. Though each caters to different crowds musically, both have become highlights on the summer concert calendar, and have equally cemented their place in this category.
In Best DJ, Adrian Butler, better known as AB, continues one of the most impressive runs in Best of the West history. Yet to lose in all the years we have included the category, AB’s familiar presence in clubs, festivals, and community events throughout the region, has only built upon his reputation for keeping dance floors packed and crowds energized. He’s joined this year by Keller Shaw and DJ John E, two DJs who have steadily expanded their presence across West Michigan nightlife and helped elevate the local DJ scene.
One of the most entertaining categories every year remains Best Cover Band. This year’s winner, Trixy Tang, has reclaimed their title after not finishing as a finalist last year, while the 2025 winner, Brena, failed to crack the top three this year. Finalists Onager and Project 90 return from last year’s list, with their loyal followings giving them both lots of love this year as well.
The Best Original Band category shares something with the cover band category as this year’s winner, Rhythm Therapy Band, also performs as an Alice In Chains tribute act. Their blend of rock, funk, blues, soul, and improvisational musicianship has earned them a devoted audience all throughout the region. Joining them this year are two familiar names, with both Desmond Jones and PHABIES returning once again as finalists. With an ever-evolving and adventurous live show, Desmond Jones has spent years establishing themselves as one of West Michigan’s premier jam bands while PHABIES continue to grow following their success at this year’s Jammies, earning recognition for their thoughtful songwriting, impassioned performances, and a growing catalog of acclaimed releases.
The Best Solo Musician category has the most change from last year, with none of those finalists returning to this list. Instead, there is an interesting mix of established and emerging talent. This year’s winner, May Erlewine, remains one of Michigan’s most respected and influential singer-songwriters. Her deeply personal songwriting and commitment to community have made her a beloved figure both locally and beyond. Fellow finalists Gunnar Thorn (also lead singer and guitarist of Rhythm Therapy Band) and Evelyine haven’t quite yet gotten to that iconic status that Erlewine has, but their inclusion here should be proof that they’re both just getting started.
Taken altogether, this year’s winners and finalists reflect a music scene that remains both deeply rooted and constantly evolving. Some names have appeared on our lists every year, while others are becoming new favorites. What unites them all is the support of passionate fans who continue to champion local music, local venues, and local artists, and as long as that support remains strong, music in West Michigan will continue to thrive.
STAFF PICKS
Best Original Band: The Mannequins
Almost ironic to their name, the real life and energy that The Mannequins have brought to West Michigan can’t be denied. Originally from the Chicago suburbs, the group relocated to Holland, and has steadily gigged all over, most recently taking home the top prize at The Stray's Battle of the Bands competition in Grand Rapids this spring. Made up of Grant McKenzie (vocals, guitar), Carter Bulthuis (bass), and Michael Sherman (drums), the trio craft what they call an emotion-first, effects-soaked sound that blends emo, alternative, and indie rock influences, while drawing inspiration from classic literature and film. As of right now, they continue to write their own story, and the next chapter proves to be only more exciting. — Eric Mitts
Best Music Venue: Glow Hall
While bigger venues often grab the headlines, it’s the smaller rooms that truly shape a music scene, and few places embody that spirit better than Glow Hall in downtown Kalamazoo. The all-ages venue and creative space has quickly established itself as a home for live music, film, art, and community gatherings, while remaining firmly rooted in a DIY ethos. More than just a place to catch a show, Glow Hall serves as an incubator for emerging artists to find their voice and connect with audiences. Through its School of Sound & Vision, and commitment to creative education, the venue is helping cultivate the next generation of musicians, photographers, storytellers, and artists, showing that small stages can have an outsized impact on our community’s cultural future. — Eric Mitts
DJ: Redd Marasigan
Redd Marasigan, the namesake behind Adobo Boy GR – Filipino Food and the inspiration for the GR Asian-Pacific Festival, is a rising star who’s been in the spotlight for years. He’s been the DJ for Maranda Park Parties since he was nine and is entering his fourth season this summer. If you’re out and about at an event, there’s a good chance you’ll see him behind the turntable. Seriously, this kid is fire. — Allison Kay Bannister
