In 2019, Chene Park was rebranded and renamed to honor Detroit’s own music icon Aretha Franklin and the majestic, 6,000-person waterfront venue certainly has that vibe that the Queen of Soul would be proud of – in other words, it’s got plenty of soul.
Located along the shore of the Detroit River, The Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre is situated on an international border between the U.S. and Canada which is considered one of the busiest waterways in the world. The Aretha has long been recognized as one of the top 100 concert venues in the world and the cultural jewel is a destination of choice for major recording artists and entertainment superstars from around the world.
The list boasts entertainment legends and A-listers including Aretha Franklin, Diana Ross, Smokey Robinson, New Edition, Chaka Khan, Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, Jean Luc Ponty, Hiroshima, Will Downing, Mary J. Blige, David Sanborn, Joss Stone, Vince Neil, Gipsy Kings, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Michael McDonald, Run D.M.C., George Clinton, The Go-Gos, Big Sean, Kem, Lita Ford, Erykah Badu, The Roots, Sheila E., Bollywood artist Sonu Nigam, and Derrick May with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra.
PHOTO GALLERY FEATURING ALTHEA RENE
The Aretha is easily one of Detroit’s best outdoor concert venues for live music. The breadth and diversity of its envied programming reflect the region’s multi-cultural spectrum and cosmopolitan spirit.
The Aretha’s long-popular Wednesday Jazzy Nights series showcases legends and leaders in Jazz and R&B at an affordable price. Weekends at Chene Park feature increasingly diverse genres including R&B, HipHop, Rock, Pop, Latino, Hindi/Bollywood and more.
ALL PHOTOS BY TERRY JACOBY
In 2021, a major capital improvement campaign began, with additional enhancements done in 2022 including new LED screens, three prominently placed facing Canada and the Detroit River. Boaters regularly gather on this international waterway to soak up the sounds. There’s truly no better entertainment venue destination in Detroit than on the beautiful banks of the Detroit River, at the Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre.
Since 2004, The Right Productions, Inc. (TRP) has managed and operated the 6,000-seat Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre (formerly known as Chene Park) under contract to the City of Detroit. A true family affair, TRP was formed in 1996 by Shahida Mausi.
Shows run until Sept. 6. For a complete list of upcoming events, click HERE
Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre
2600 Atwater Street.
Detroit, MI 48207
313.393.0292
