Michigan Rocks Radio. Why? "Because Michigan Rocks!"
— Mark Sandstedt
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Discover the captivating world of Michigan Rocks Radio with Mark's top Studio Conversations. Each week, Mark engages with local Michigan artists to explore their journeys, current projects, and the stories of their music. From intriguing anecdotes to notable facts and hit songs, these conversations offer a deeper insight into the vibrant Michigan music scene. Don’t miss out on Mark’s weekly highlights that celebrate the talent and creativity of Michigan’s finest musicians.
Spinners
The Spinner’s were a Motown act with a string of hit singles in the 60’s and 70’s. While none of the original members perform any longer, the current lineup features Jessie Peck, Marvin Taylor, Ronnie Moss and CJ Jefferson who continue to perform live. Frontman Jessie Peck joined Mark Sandstedt for a Studio Conversation to chat about carrying on the Spinner’s amazing legacy.
Papa Vegas
Papa Vegas was founded in Grand Rapids in the mid-90’s and was signed to RCA Records where they would release the album Hello Vertigo that yielded the hit song “Bombshell”. Papa Vegas singer/guitarist Joel Furgeson chats with Mark Sandstedt about how fast the record deal came and how fast it went along with other anecdotes regarding the band.
In The Valley Below
In The Valley Below is a Grand Rapids, MI band that is led by Jeff Mendel and Angie Mattson. The band has released 3 full-length albums and several EP’s and singles. Their latest album “The Black Moon” was released in 2024 and the band toured extensively to support it. Angie Mattson joined Mark Sandstedt for a Studio Conversation to chat about the past, present and future for In The Valley Below.
Myron Elkins
Myron Elkins is originally from Otsego, Michigan but has been living in Nashville for the past several years. He has endeared audiences far and wide with a unique blend or Americana roots/rock music. Myron is on tour continuously and is working on completing his third, full-length album. Listen to his recent Studio Conversation with Mark along with 2 songs “Red Ball” and “Get Home” recorded live at Dog Town Studios in Grand Rapids.
Jabo Bihlman
Emmy Award winning Traverse City artist Jabo Bihlman is well known for his solo work along with fronting The Bihlman Brothers Band and playing in Grinder Blues which is a project he collaborates with his brother Scott “Little” Bihlman and King’s X singer/bassist Dug Pinnick. Jabo continues to write, record and tour and joined Mark Sandstedt recently for
an in-depth Studio Conversation.
MARSHALL CRENSHAW
Marshall Crenshaw, a singer, songwriter and guitarist best known for his hit songs such as “Someday, Someway” a US top-40 hit in 1982, “Cynical Girl” and “Whenever You’re on My Mind”. He also co-wrote on of the biggest radio hits of the 1990’s, the Gin Blossom’s “’Til I Hear It From You”. He is also well known for playing Buddy Holly in the 1987 film La Bamba. Born in Detroit, Michigan, Crenshaw performed in the musical Beatlemania before releasing is self-titled debut album in 1982.
He has also toured as the lead singer of The Smithereens.
JEFF DANIELS
Jeff Daniels, the acclaimed actor, is a name that resonates in Hollywood. From Dumb and Dumber to Terms of Endearment, he has left an indelible mark on cinema. Beyond acting, he founded the Purple Rose Theater Company in his home town of Chelsea, MI, showcasing his dedication to the arts. As a talented singer-songwriter, Jeff has captivated audiences for over 20 years with his remarkable story-telling and often shares the stage with his son’s band, The Ben Daniels Band. Join Mark Sandstedt for his conversation with the legendary Michigander, Jeff Daniels, a Michigan Rocks Radio exclusive.
MARK FARNER
As a founding member of the legendary Flint, MI band Grand Funk Railroad, Mark Farner has been a big part of the Michigan Music Scene for decades. Currently residing in the Petoskey area, Farner and his American Band released a new record in November 2024 in celebration of the 55th Anniversary of the hit song “I’m Your Captain (Closer To Home)” which was
re-recorded for the new album. Farner and his band will be touring in support of the album this summer. He recently joined
Mark Sandstedt for a Studio Conversation on Michigan Rocks Radio where they discussed him collaborating with
Mark Slaugher in the studio.
Don Was
Detroit native, Don Was is a musician, record producer, filmmaker, radio host, music director and the president of the jazz record label Blue Note Records. Was formed the group Was (Not Was) with high-school friend David Weiss, who went by David Was. The group found commercial success in the 1980’s with their biggest hit “Walk The Dinosaur”. As a producer,
Was has received 6 Grammy Awards including the 1994 Grammy for Producer of the Year. His latest project, Don Was and the Pan Detroit Ensemble, is a jazz group comprised entirely of musicians from Detroit with Was playing bass.
Michael Persh
Rhythm Corps is an alternative rock band that was formed in Detroit in the early 1980’s. They are well known for their smash hit, “Common Ground” which reached #9 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Charts. Rhythm Corps lead singer Michael Persh joined Mark Sandstedt for a Studio Conversation to discuss the bands success and legacy.