Friends of the Grande now on Facebook

"To preserve the history of the Grande Ballroom and its physical edifice while promoting the Culture fostered by its patrons, performers and promoters." 

If you are interested in supporting this mission statement, please join 

the Friends of the Grande on Facebook !

Michael Davis - MC5 -1943-2012

Sad news from California this weekend.
MC5 Bassist Michael Davis has passed away at the age of 68.


Mike was one of the first I ever heard refer to the Grande as "our palace". I have used that term ever since in trying to describe this fanciful place that I myself had never been, but where the 5 lorded over the local music scene during the ballroom's rock heyday.


Thanks for the music Michael. Rest easy.


http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/obituaries/bassist-michael-davis-from-influential-60s-band-mc5-dies-at-age-68/2012/02/18/gIQAyIVeMR_story.html

Building Access

In the 10 years I have been writing and researching the Grande Ballroom I have received dozens of requests for access to the building itself. The present owners do not honor such requests for a number of reasons.
As the result of deferred maintenance, the ballroom's condition is extremely poor. Large holes in the roof allow rain to pour in and missing windows permit wind and snow to blow through. Freeze thaw cycles have caused bricks and 100 pound concrete cornices to crash to the sidewalk. The retail lower floor is now a moonscape of liberated gypsum and asbestos The city of Detroit has placed the Grande on its dangerous buildings list. In its present condition the building is un-insurable and injuries sustained by any visitors could be a huge liability for the owners.
I would like to go on record and state that I don't condone, recommend or permit unauthorized entry into the Grande Ballroom building. It is extremely hazardous and unauthorized access is considered breaking and entering as well as trespassing. Please respect this landmark and its owners wishes. - Leo Early