One of the most iconic rock venues in Detroit will be seeing a big transformation in the coming months -- The Magic Stick, on the second floor of the Majestic entertainment complex on Woodward, will turn its back on its rock roots for electronic music, the Detroit Free Press reports.
The Stick has been instrumental in boosting the popularity of Detroit bands such as The White Stripes and Queens of the Stone Age in the past two decades. In response to declining revenues, owner David Zainea opted for a change of pace. He told the Free Press:
"It broke my heart to make this decision. Financially, I had no choice but to do it. I'm sure I'll hear a lot of complaints...This is a gamble, but I think it's going to work."
Zainea is partnering with Amir Daiza, the owner of Clutch Cargo's, to make the switch to electronic music. The renovation will include a bigger stage, new bathrooms, and all new decor. The remodeled venue is slated to open in mid-April.
--Paige Pfleger, Michigan Radio Newsroom
