From Jody Watley to Mac Diesel: 7 Motor City Pride 2022 Acts You Won't Want to Miss
With so many acts to choose from all weekend across four entertainment stages, there’s something for everyone at Motor City Pride, from June 11-12. Add these seven not-to-be-missed performances to your short list.
Jody Watley
7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 11. Pride Stage.
Jody Watley may be inching toward her fifth decade as a performer, but her beats are fresh as ever. Watley’s resume includes an impressive list that showcases the star’s versatility: Grammy-winning R&B artist, chart-topping pop sensation, songwriter, record producer. Sing along with Watley as she belts old familiars (who can resist joining in on hits like '80s pop earworms “Real Love” and “Looking for a New Love”?) during what is sure to be a lively, memorable performance for 2022 Pridegoers.
Wake Up Jamie
1 p.m. Saturday, June 11. Festival Stage.
Wake Up Jamie, described by primary songwriter and frontwoman Jess Joyce as “glam emo,” draws influence from the pop-punk, country, classic rock and '90s alternative she grew up listening to. Joyce is accompanied by co-frontwoman Hailey Christine, whose strong, crisp vocals serve as a contrast to Joyce’s characteristic raspy belt. The lineup also includes guitarist Chris James, bassist Pippa Ross and drummer Jerry Heiss.
Mac Diesel
7 p.m. Saturday, June 11. Riverfront Stage.
On stage, it's not unusual to find Mac Diesel mixing three to four tracks simultaneously with his tongue hanging out as he double drops addictive grooves. Known for uniquely and seamlessly mixing genres like house, techno, funk, jazz and soul, Diesel has been on the scene since 2014, performing across the country. “I’m not afraid to play a throwback R&B hook over a dirty breakfast banger or a Marvin Gaye chorus over a gritty bass line,” Diesel said.
Out Loud Chorus
1 p.m. Sunday, June 12. Pyramid Stage.
Washtenaw County’s Out Loud Chorus is a mixed LGBTQ+, non-auditioned choir open to everyone who loves to sing and has an open mind. Out Loud’s only requirement to sing with the chorus is that you are able to match pitch. Founded in 1995, the chorus produces two shows a year. They are billed as Washtenaw County’s only arts organization for the entire LGBTQ+ community.
The Band Mint
5 p.m. Sunday, June 12. Festival Stage.
The Band Mint is a local hip-hop outfit out of Oak Park that bills themselves as “A Tribe Called Quest meets The Red Hot Chili Peppers.” The group is a regular at various local venues and festival favorites at Detroit’s annual Dally in the Alley. For lovers of not just hip-hop and rap but also R&B and jazz.
Corry Michaels
7 p.m. Saturday, June 12. Festival Stage.
Corry Michaels comes to us from Cleveland, Ohio. The 25-year-old singer, songwriter and advocate considers himself a pop artist. His album “Give All Yourself” has become a vehicle for breaking down barriers, building bridges and creating safe and brave spaces. He enjoys partnering with various organizations as well playing on stages on his own terms. Expect him to perform his latest single, “Break the Ice.”
Crystal Harding & Friends
4 p.m., 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday, June 12. Pyramid Stage.
Crystal Harding will host a fabulous drag show featuring such talent as Dante Gabbana, Shauntrelle Blu, Whitney Naomi, Natalie Cole, King Teddy, Deja Van Cartier, Lotiphia Hunter, Lucy Misfit, Sabin, Isis Dupree, Geo Glam, Katrina Monae and DJ Splendah. Come out, enjoy and bring some singles 'cause this cast is going to work hard for you.
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