A star-studded concert took place in Detroit on Thursday night, featuring iconic musical talents such as Diana Ross, Eminem, and Jack White. The event, titled 'Live From Detroit: The Concert at Michigan Central,' marked the reopening of the historic 18-story Michigan Central Station, a symbol of the city's past struggles.
Ford Motor Co. took control of the once-vacant train station six years ago, with plans to revitalize the building and surrounding area for autonomous vehicle development. Bill Ford, the company's executive chairman, expressed pride in the transformation of the station, which had long been a visual representation of Detroit's decline.
The concert, which was streamed live on Peacock, featured electrifying performances by artists like Big Sean, the Clark Sisters, Common, Fantasia, Melissa Etheridge, and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. Notable presenters included Detroit Lions legends and actors.
Big Sean, reflecting on the station's history, described it as an 'oasis in the middle of the city' and a metaphor for Detroit's current resurgence. Eminem, the concert's executive producer, surprised attendees with a dynamic closing set, including his new single 'Houdini' and hits like 'Not Afraid' and 'Welcome 2 Detroit.'
Jack White, a Detroit native, delivered a memorable performance, playing songs that he noted were written just blocks away from the station. His rendition of 'Seven Nation Army' elicited an enthusiastic response from the crowd, symbolizing the city's spirit and resilience.
The Michigan Central Station, once a target for scavengers and urban explorers, now stands as a centerpiece of a 30-acre mobility innovation district in Corktown. The area is poised for significant growth, with the project expected to bring thousands of tech-related jobs and new businesses to the neighborhood.
Detroit's revitalization extends beyond the station reopening, with the city making strides in financial stability, population retention, and urban renewal efforts. Recent milestones, such as record attendance at the NFL draft, highlight Detroit's resurgence and the community's collective joy in the city's progress.
