The Dexter Leader
A Heritage Newspaper
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Mitch Ryder rocks downtown Chelsea
PUBLISHED: July 31, 2008
Mitch Ryder & his retooled Detroit Wheels rolled into downtown Chelsea last Thursday night for a benefit concert to raise money for Sounds & Sights. Soon after warm-up band the Witch Doctors got the huge crowded tent moving, Ryder and his band hit the stage for an extended set that shook the crowd out of their seats and on to the dance floor for an hour plus of thumping rockin' rhythm and blues.
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An estimated 400 ticket holders sang and danced to Ryder's chart topping hits such as Little Latin Lupe Lu, Jenny Take A ride, Devil With The Blue Dress On, and Sock It To Me, along with more recent tunes such as It Must Be In Her Jeans. Another 200 or so on lookers enjoyed the show from beyond the reaches of the venue's fencing behind The Common Grill.
Dressed in his classic brimmed hat and black sunglasses, Ryder energized the large crowd, as his signature soulful gravely voice boomed as strong as ever. Neither he or his band ever missed a beat on this night.
Shortly after his final encore, Ryder reappeared to chat and sign autographs.It's been some time since Chelsea has experienced the energy that Ryder and his group brought here. It may be a while before it's seen again. Early ticket and beverage sales reflect a profit for the event and Sounds & Sights. Proceeds will provide seed money for operating expenses for next year.
"I think this show went as well we could have imagined," says event co-organizer, Craig Common. "Mitch came into our small community and put on a show that none of us will soon forget. It's a great tribute to Chelsea that we had such an enthusiastic turnout. The comments were all very positive, and the musicians were thrilled with the reception they received from our community. We could not be any happier."
The Sounds & Sights committee will be meeting again soon to begin discussing next year's concert.
"The bar was raised pretty high last Thursday night," says Bob Pierce, Sounds & Sights committee member and Chelsea chamber director. "We have become known as music and arts destination, so it's our mission to keep bringing great entertainment to Chelsea."
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