While Detroit is known for Motown, Eminem and The White Stripes, there is also an emerging country music scene thriving right here in Detroit.
We’re introducing you to a local DJ making it his mission to help our hometown country artists while on the road to successful music careers.
“I’m behind the scenes in the control room with Ryan and Annie watching magic being made at Homegrown Happy Hour hosted by Frank Williams Jr.,” WXYZ reporter Jennifer Ann Wilson said in the studio.
“Detroit’s a hotbed for country," Williams, Jr. said. “Country fans and country music.”
Williams, Jr. is the host on Detroit's 99.5 WYCD from 7 p.m. to midnight. He’s passionate about introducing metro Detroit listeners to the hottest local country bands.
“I bring in a local artist every Tuesday and they play three of their songs for me, I interview them,” Williams, Jr. said.
According to Williams, Jr., the bands and artists are able to perform their songs, tell listeners about who they are and much more.
It all happens n the second floor of Hockeytown Café at MusicTown Detroit. It’s home to a small recording studio where over 150 local country bands have performed live on his show.
“When you launch an original project, it is a big effort, in general, to get people to buy your music on iTunes,” musician Joey Vee said. “So, to get people to see ya any chance you can is awesome!”
Williams, Jr. says the goal for all these bands is to hit it big in Nashville, but for now, they’re embracing their craft right here in Michigan.
He said there are a lot of big names that made Detroit proud, but there are also a lot of local artists who need a little push, and a little spotlight on them to get them started.
The goal, according to Williams, Jr., is to "let people know they're here and hopefully, they can make more (music), advance their career a little further."
”It’s great that Michigan can hear of these new bands.” Vee added. “It’s a great forum for local bands.”
“They want to see them make it to the top,” Williams, Jr. said, “They wanna be the next Luke Bryan or the next Chris Stapleton.
Homegrown Happy Hour is every Tuesday 12 p.m. - 1p.m. on the second floor of Hockeytown in Midtown Detroit.
If you are interested in being featured on Homegrown Happy Hour contact Frank Williams Jr. directly at FrankJrRadio@gmail.com.
