Caption: About 20,000 people packed Roosevelt Park Thursday, June 6, 2024 for Live From Detroit: The Concert at Michigan Central to celebrate the historic re-opening of Michigan Central Station following an extensive six-year renovation by Ford. Eminem, Diana Ross, Jack White, Big Sean and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra led an all-star musical lineup at the 90-minute concert, which also featured appearances by Ford executives and local leaders.
The weather was perfect (but windy), and the atmosphere was electric. Everyone eagerly anticipated the start of the extraordinary Michigan Central Open concert. Little did they know, they were about to witness an event of sheer grandeur that would go down in history. With the entire world tuning in live on Peacock and WDIV-Local 4 and a crowd of nearly 20,000 attendees, the stage was set for an unforgettable night that would leave a lasting impression on Michigan’s history for years to come.
Diana Ross set the tone for the concert and delivered a dazzling grand opening performance against the stunning backdrop of the newly renovated Michigan Central Station. The iconic venue provided the perfect setting for the Motown legend to captivate fans with her timeless classics.
Caption: Diana Ross, performing at Michigan Central
The free concert was an incredible showcase of musical talent, featuring performances by some of the most prominent names in the industry. The lineup boasted unforgettable sets by renowned artists such as Big Sean, Common, Slum Village, Illa J, The Clark Sisters, Kierra Sheard, Sky Jetta, and Fantasia. The event was full of special guests, including Jalen Rose, Mike Epps, and Lions Legend Barry Sanders, making the evening star-studded.
Caption: Big Sean Performing at Michigan Central
The crowd was in for a special treat as the concert reached its climax when Eminem took the stage to perform alongside the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, followed by a surprise appearance by rapper Trick Trick. As if that wasn’t enough, the legendary Diana Ross delivered a stunning second concert inside Michigan Central, leaving the audience in awe.
During the event, Bill Ford, the Executive Chair of Ford, enthusiastically introduced the upcoming developments at Michigan Central. Before his speech, Mayor Mike Duggan and Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivered their remarks, as Mason from 105.3 Kiss emceed and got the crowd ready for the show.
Caption: (L)Mason and (R)Bill Ford at Michigan Central -Courtesy of Ford/Michigan Central
In a bold move in 2018, Ford ambitiously acquired the historic Michigan Central Station and initiated its restoration. This iconic landmark, with its rich history and cultural significance, posed significant challenges, requiring diligent efforts and unwavering determination to overcome numerous hurdles in the restoration process. Restoring the old train station cost upwards of $950 million.
The Michigan Central Open House event, a unique opportunity to explore the revitalized Station, will take place from June 7 to June 16. Following the 10-day reopening celebration on June 16, Michigan Central will gradually reactivate the Station over the coming months and years as it welcomes restaurants, retail outlets, and other commercial and community-focused partners. During this period, the first floor will be accessible for self-guided tours from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Fridays and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays, from June 21 to August 31. More than 60,000 people will tour the station as part of the sold-out Open House event.
“It’s going to be a place where people from all over our region will come with their families and have a great time. There will be a platform that will allow companies, startups, entrepreneurs, to push boundaries, rethink what’s possible, and find solutions that make a difference in people’s lives,” Ford said.
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