Top 10 Artist Spotlight Interviews: Revisiting Talented Musicians

As Local Spins concludes its 14th anniversary celebration, it’s an opportune moment to look back at some of the most loved features highlighting our favorite regional and national artists. With a myriad of stories to share, we cannot help but reminisce over our Top 10 Artist Spotlight pieces, which have resonated deeply with our readers.

Taking a stroll down memory lane always brings back cherished memories and unexpected surprises. Such is the delight we experience as Local Spins wraps up its 14-year journey as Michigan’s prime destination for music news. Recently, we showcased our Top 10 concert reviews of all time, alongside writer Tricia Boot Woolfenden’s Top 5 Meijer Gardens concerts. But today, our focus shifts to our Top 10 Artist Spotlight features, offering an eloquent portrait of bands and solo artists that have captured the imagination of our readers.

1. The fascinating journey of Billy Strings, from his roots in Ionia County to mastering the guitar at a young age, has been a riveting tale shared in our October 28, 2023 feature. A portrayal of his teenage rock years and meteoric rise resonated with readers, offering a glimpse into the life of this bluegrass virtuoso.

2. Prince’s enduring legacy, nine years after his passing, lives on at Paisley Park and in the hearts of many in West Michigan. Our exploration of his connection to the region and a visit to Paisley Park in Minnesota made for a popular post in April 2025.

3. Herb Alpert, the living legend, continues to enthrall audiences at 90 with his Tijuana Brass. A captivating interview with the ever-youthful trumpeter and composer by Ross Boissoneau shed light on Alpert’s remarkable journey, culminating in his 2025 tour stop at DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids.

4. Mark Farner, the iconic co-founder of Grand Funk Railroad, takes us closer to home with his new album and a re-recorded “I’m Your Captain.” A candid interview by writer/editor John Sinkevics in September 2024 offered insights into Farner’s musical evolution and his ties to northern Michigan.

5. John Mark McMillan’s odyssey through faith, identity crisis, and musical success was a revelation for many readers. A poignant interview by Enrique Olmos showcased the journey of this platinum-selling singer-songwriter.

6. Michigan-born country act MaRynn Taylor, on a meteoric rise, shared her journey from Rockford to opening for Kelsea Ballerini. Holly Holtzclaw’s feature on Taylor in January 19, 2025 captivated audiences, hinting at the promising trajectory of this budding country artist.

7. Eric Burdon of The Animals, a revered figure in rock, shared amusing and insightful anecdotes in one of Local Spins’ earliest interviews in 2012. Publisher John Sinkevics’ encounter with the legendary singer prior to a Michigan tour stop highlighted Burdon’s enduring charm.

8. Torn between healing from tragedy and brimming with hope, TobyMac embarked on a poignant journey before his triumphant Grand Rapids tour stop. Terry DeBoer’s interview in 2023 offered a glimpse into the heart of the artist.

9. Bachman-Turner Overdrive’s undying spirit and Randy Bachman’s enduring presence in rock showcased the tremendous longevity of these musicians. Ross Boissoneau’s interview in July 2025 with Bachman heralded The Guess Who’s return, embarking on a much-anticipated tour.

10. Drummer Zach Dubay’s mesmerizing music wizardry and his journey from Grand Rapids to Nashville captivated readers. Enrique Olmos’ interview shed light on Dubay’s multi-faceted talent, earning him a place on our Top 10 list.