It will take some time for Detroiters to get used to, but Chene Park is no more. It is now called the “Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre.” Members of the Queen of Soul’s family, Mayor Mike Duggan, members of Detroit City Council and others gathered Friday morning for the renaming of the entertainment venue and unveiling of the new marquee.
August 31, 2018, the day of Franklin’s funeral, Mayor Duggan announced that Chene Park’s name would be changed as a tribute to the life-long Detroiter. Days later, City Council unanimously approved the resolution.
“August 22, 2015, the most memorable concert that ever occurred here was Aretha Franklin, opened by The Isley Brothers,” said Mayor Duggan. “She went on well past midnight, until she finished to the roar of the crowd and ‘R-E-S-P-E-C-T.’ She loved this facility and came back after she retired, surprising Smokey Robinson.”
“Today, this daughter of Detroit has a permanent memorial. She brought joy to millions around the world through her music, and now Detroiters can enjoy music for years to come at the ‘Aretha.’”
The dedication event for the new Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre featured the Queen’s music playing over the loudspeakers, live music from pianist Alvin Waddles, soloists Deontaye Clay and Kimberly Whitsett, and Bill Moss & Third New Hope.
Franklin last performed at the venue in 2015 to celebrate its 30th anniversary. A tribute concert was held there last summer after her passing. Franklin died August 16, 2018 at 76 after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
“This is a great honor for my mother and I am proud of her achievements,” said Kecalf Franklin, Aretha’s youngest son who was in attendance. “She would be very happy to see everyone out here celebrating her legacy. Although it was a challenging time when the renaming was announced, the family is thankful for this gesture.”
“Aretha would be so happy about the renaming of this fine city park. She loved Chene Park; she loved Detroit; and she loved you,” her niece, Sabrina Owens added.
The new digital marquee was designed by Skidmore Studio and features a new logo and a stylized signature of Franklin’s first name. Walker Miller Energy Services, Inc. sponsored the dedication event. Landscaping Services, Inc. provided landscaping support, complete with a musical note surrounded by a bed of flowers.
“It is befitting that Chene Park be renamed in honor of Aretha Franklin,” said City Council President Brenda Jones. “The Queen of Soul gave so much to this city and made significant contributions to the musical legacy of Detroit and the world.”
The spring and summer concert series at the new Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre kicks off June 1. As many as 40 events are planned, and 150,000 guests are expected to enjoy the “Aretha” this summer.
“We are honored to have been entrusted with upholding a tradition of excellence at The Aretha,” said The Right Productions CEO Shahida Mausi, which has managed the venue for 16 years. “This beautiful waterfront venue offers an unmatched experience to enjoy live music during this inaugural season.”
The unique waterfront venue first opened in the spring of 1985, after former Mayor Coleman Young said he wanted a venue for Detroiters that would rival Pine Knob (DTE Energy Music Theatre). It was named after French immigrant Charles Chene. The Chene family are on record to have owned slaves and servants in Detroit, so it is only fitting that the popular park is named after a queen.