Jeff Daniels Celebrates Homegrown Music

Actor, singer, and songwriter Jeff Daniels is celebrating "Made in Michigan" music at his third annual Jeff Daniels & Friends concert over the Thanksgiving weekend.  Inspired by a similar event, which was the brainchild of musician, Arlo Guthrie, Daniels' showcase will take place on Saturday, November 29th, at the historic Michigan Theater in Ann Arbor.   

The show is expected to be fun and uplifting, featuring a combination of folk, blues, and jazz performers.  According to Daniels, "We had nearly two thousand people up on their feet singing and dancing in the aisles last year and the year before.  I'd say we've started something big and now have our own festive, holiday tradition."  To keep the festivities accessible during these tough economic times, producers have even lowered ticket prices since last year's show.

A talented singer and songrwriter, Daniels will share the stage along with a strong lineup of homegrown talent.  Friends joining him include Mr. B, The Ragbirds, B.A.S.I.C., Ben Daniels Band, and Steppin' In It. 

Mr. B is also known as Ann Arbor's own, Mark Braun.  He started playing piano at age fifteen.  Eventuually, inspired by the music of Jimmy Yancey and other greats, he developed a "Boogie Woogie" piano style that has made him a local favorite.

By weaving together global and local musical elements, The Ragbirds have created a sound uniquely their own.  This five-person band is fronted by Erin Zindle, an energetic vocalist, musician, and songwriter who can skillfully switch between violin, mandolin, accordian, banjo, and percussion.

B.A.S.I.C. is a youth choir that was developed out of the Washtenaw County Chapter of the Gospel Music Workshop of America in 2007.  These talented youngsters highlight contemporary gospel, while also including traditional gospel, hymns, and anthems in their repertoire.

Another fresh face appearing at the concert is Chelsea songwriter, guitarist and vocalist, Ben Daniels.   His Ben Daniels Band also features George Merkel on guitar and Tommy Reifel on bass.  The trio creates a smooth, contemporary folksy sound, with a slight rock edge.  

Recently returned from appearances in Colorado and California, Lansing's Steppin' In It is happy to be back home and making their third straight appearance at this event.  The highly acclaimed quartet specializes in old time country and blues.

As for Jeff Daniels, he may be best known for his acting, but he's also a gifted songwriter who has been singing and pickin' guitar for more than thirty years.  "For me, songwriting began as a way of passing time on movie sets," says Daniels.  "Over the years, I've turned the musical side of my life into a show for no other reason than I enjoy doing it." 

Daniels often peppers his shows with humor too, as evidenced by the personal invitation to the show he extended to viewers of WXYZ Channel 7 in Detroit, “If the relatives are in town, ya know, and you’ve had enough of ‘em, I’ll take ‘em for a night.”  

Whether you're ditching the relatives or just treating yourself, it's sure to be a good time.  Attendees, be sure to come back and share the highlights in the comments section of this article.

Tickets for Jeff Daniels & Friends ($22.50, $37.50, $75.00) are on sale now at the Michigan Union Ticket Office 734-763-TKTS or via www.ticketmaster.com.