Detroit’s decayed industry continues to cast a long shadow, its abandoned buildings at once awe-inspiring and eerie. But in spite of its struggling economy, corrupt politicians, and the city’s ongoing water crisis, the Midwestern metropolis is as much characterized and defined by its music. Detroit spawned The White Stripes, raised Eminem, and birthed Insane Clown Posse and horrorcore. It was the home of Motown, Alice Cooper, and Bob Seger, and Madonna grew up in the city’s suburbs.
Arguably one of the most vital and exciting artists to emerge from Detroit in recent years is Danny Brown. In this seventh episode of Made In America Danny discusses the mentality of local music fans and artists, and the formative effect the city’s had on his own music.
We also delve into the world of Detroit techno via dance legend Kevin Saunderson (of Inner City and one third of the Bellville Three), tracing the genre’s lineage through to DJ/producer Carl Craig. Plus we crash post-punk band Protomartyr’s basement rehearsal and talk to Derek from Turn to Crime/Awsome Color for an insight into the city’s future.
