BOTW 2025 MUSIC WINNERS
Despite the looming threat of economic uncertainty darkening the otherwise bright outlook for our local music scene, the fans came out in force to vote for this year’s Best of the West Finalists, proving that passion goes a long way, both on and off stage.
And speaking of stages, we have to start by recognizing the tragic closing of one of West Michigan’s oldest stages, as the iconic Kalamazoo State Theatre shut down, hopefully temporarily, late last year. Losing one of the most historic venues in our area didn’t affect the results in our Best Music Venue category, however, as once again GLC Live at 20 Monroe took the top slot, with longtime Grand Rapids favorites The Pyramid Scheme and The Intersection returning as finalists.
The Electric Forest Festival also repeated as our Best Music Festival winner, with last year’s finalists, Breakaway and Upheaval, both held over the summer at Grand Rapids’ Belknap Park, landing as finalists this year as well. More than just a music festival, Electric Forest remains a one of a kind experience for our state, and honestly the country, so its long-running dominance in this category isn’t likely to come to an end, with yet another massive crowd descending upon the illuminated trees of Rothbury for a weekend-long, all-night dance party earlier this summer.
In the Best Solo Musical Artist field, dobro wizard and Americana staple Mark Lavengood won the top spot. From collabs with his friend and superstar West Michigan native Billy Strings, in addition to hosting the fantastic Smiling Acres Festival, Lavengood more than deserves the high praise for his mind-blowing talent, infectious good vibes, and commitment to the community. He’s joined by two new finalists, soulful singer-songwriter Adrian Wright, and genre-defying performer CALV, showcasing the depth and diversity in our local scene.
Vinyl lovers once again showed their undying loyalty, with Vertigo Music holding strong as the champion of the Best Vinyl Record Store category for 10 years running. Black Dog Books & Records, which opened last year and focuses on used records and counterculture, enters our list for the first time, also joining longtime finalist, Corner Record Shop.
And perhaps the most moving victory on our entire list came in the Best Original Band category where Grand Rapids’ The Bootstrap Boys brought home the number one spot. The Jammie Award-winning outlaw country group tragically lost guitarist Nick Alexander in January, so it’s a bittersweet celebration for the band as they continue to carry on while mourning the loss of their friend. They’re joined by past winner, GR jam favorites Desmond Jones, and indie outfit PHABIES, who just released their sophomore album, The Curse of Caring, earlier this summer.
With so many stories behind each and every winner, it remains our pleasure to share a glimpse into all the hard work that goes into making West Michigan such a great place for music every month, and to take a moment here each year to truly celebrate it all.
STAFF PICKS
Best Original Band - Low Phase
Local alt-rock group Low Phase hit a new high point in an already stellar career with the release of their brand new EP, So Pretty It’s Perfect, last month. Living up to that straightforward description, the new record is packed full of gorgeous guitar-work, elevating the band to a whole new level, while echoing epic, ‘90s vibes around every corner. Just a viral hit away from blowing up, Low Phase won’t be at this level for much longer, so don’t miss out on the chance to see them up close on the smaller stages around town before they inevitably take off. – Eric Mitts
Best Music Festival - Smiling Acres Music Festival
Placed on a pristine piece of property in Trufant, Michigan, and perfectly timed on the weekend after Electric Forest, Smiling Acres embodies all the best parts of summer festival season. Among the ever-increasing number of festivals highlighting local and regional talent, Smiling Acres has an undeniable sense of pure joy that grows bigger every year. As mentioned before, Mark Lavengood’s extensive involvement gives it a personal touch that feels like a warm hug, one that’s still welcoming even in the sweltering summer heat. Family friendly and full of late night adventures, it really offers something for everyone to enjoy. – Eric Mitts"
