Eminem, and in particular his movie 8 Mile, brought national attention to Detroit's hip-hop scene only recently. Yet, hip-hop has been central to the culture of this city for more than 20 years. It was here that hip-hop pioneers like The Crew Called Open Mic, A.W.O.L, Smilee, and Kaos & Mystro refined their talents. Their work opened the doors for newer Detroit artists like Slum Village, Miz Korona and Njeri Earth, as well as producers like Karriem Riggins and Jay Dee.

Hip-hop in Detroit is still prominent today, as is poetry. Closely affiliated with the hip-hop culture, poetry has grown increasingly popular. The Metro Detroit Slam Team is former champion of the National Poetry Slam Competition, and the local Max M. Fisher Music Center hosts regular slam competitions. Witnessing these, and hip-hop performers live, is the best way to truly appreciate the word-smithing wizardry of these talented artists. Detroit gives you many options to do both.

Artist Sampler

Aaliyah
Eminem
Insane Clown Posse
Jay Dee (producer)
Karriem Riggins (producer)
Kid Rock
Royce da 5'9"
Slum Village
Crystal Williams (poet)
Toi Derricotte (poet)
Anthony Butts (poet)

Landmarks

Fifty-Four Sound (recording studio for Eminem) 1525 E 9 Mile Rd., Ferndale
The Shelter 431 E. Congress, Detroit

Where to Hear the Sound

Majestic Theatre 4140 Woodward, Detroit (313) 833-9700
The Fillmore (formerly The State Theatre) 2115 Woodward Ave., Detroit (313) 961-5450
Max M. Fisher Music Center, 3711 Woodward, Detroit (313) 576-5111