Happy Hour: Root Cause Analysis wsg Emily Slomovits
Mar
13

Happy Hour: Root Cause Analysis wsg Emily Slomovits

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Root Cause Analysis kicks off their 2026 World Tour with a free happy hour set. Expect rootsy Americana favorites, deep cuts, and originals, delivered with tight harmonies and loose logic. 
Lending legitimacy to the whole endeavor will be special guest, violin virtuoso Emily Slomovits!

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BLUEGRASS FRIDAY: PONTIAC TRAIL BLAZERS ft. Rochelle Clark
Mar
13

BLUEGRASS FRIDAY: PONTIAC TRAIL BLAZERS ft. Rochelle Clark

Hailing from the Ann Arbor area, the Pontiac Trail Blazers have been the house bluegrass band for Detroit Street Filling Station since 2017. They are often joined by a bevy of special guests and focus on the beautiful harmonies and acoustic prowess that are unique to their Bluegrass roots. Featuring Rochelle Clark on vocals & guitar

$10 cover

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Ryan Racine & The Little Victories
Mar
14

Ryan Racine & The Little Victories

Ryan Racine is a singer, songwriter, and guitarist from southeast Michigan. Performing in bands for nearly 30 years, Ryan released his first solo album “Outsider’s Heart” in 2018. The album is a culmination of his experiences both musical and personal, exploring themes of belonging, depression, finding love, and accepting happiness, all sonically planted in American Roots styles.Between 2020 and 2023 Ryan released 5 singles and is currently recording a new full-length record for release in 2025.

Ticketed Show | 6:00 PM | 5:30 Doors

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Happy Hour: Jan Krist & Alan Finkbeiner
Mar
18

Happy Hour: Jan Krist & Alan Finkbeiner

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Detroit born Singer-songwriter Jan Krist was raised on rock, and schooled in the folk music of the 60’s and 70’s.Today, Krist's work reflects the power and poetry of having matured as an artist in that place and time.
Born in Flint, Alan Finkbeiner began drumming for his father’s honky tonk band when he was only four. He is a multi instrumentalist, with a deep understanding of folk, rock, and jazz, Alan’s musical contributions always hit the perfect notes. 

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Karaoke Night
Mar
18

Karaoke Night

A night for those of you that sing in the shower and belt it in traffic. A night for those that have no proper place to perform. We have your stage at North Star Lounge! Lousy singer? We don’t care. Just bring a good time.

Hosted by our very own Ryan M.

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Happy Hour: Maggie May
Mar
19

Happy Hour: Maggie May

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Hailing from Patrick County, Virginia and with her guitar in hand, Maggie Blankenship soulfully sings a combination of original and cover tunes that are guaranteed to take you on an uplifting journey. Influences of bluegrass and rock ‘n’ roll echo throughout her unique folk-rock music style. Anytime she steps on stage she is taken to a sacred place that welcomes anyone willing to join her. She delivers an unforgettable performance that often channels musical icons such as Susan Tedeschi, Grace Potter, Stevie Nicks, and Janis Joplin.

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Happy Hour: The Myriad Project
Mar
20

Happy Hour: The Myriad Project

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
The Myriad Project is a genre-defying electro-acoustic chamber ensemble based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Defined by a passion for community and collaboration, the ensemble (Emily Brownlee, oboe; Donald Schweikert, bassoon; and Daniel Fecteau, electric violin and loop station) curates their repertoire and performance experience in a way that emphasizes authenticity, creativity, and audience engagement. Their music has been described by listeners as colorful, whimsical, and fantasy-inspired, and features beautiful melodies and immersive textures. The trio formed during their shared time at the University of Michigan and has been enthusiastically exploring new projects, genres, and possibilities ever since.

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BLUEGRASS FRIDAY: PONTIAC TRAIL BLAZERS ft. Wesley Fritzemeier
Mar
20

BLUEGRASS FRIDAY: PONTIAC TRAIL BLAZERS ft. Wesley Fritzemeier

Hailing from the Ann Arbor area, the Pontiac Trail Blazers have been the house bluegrass band for Detroit Street Filling Station since 2017. They are often joined by a bevy of special guests and focus on the beautiful harmonies and acoustic prowess that are unique to their Bluegrass roots. Featuring Wesley Fritzemeier on tenor guitar

$10 cover

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The Lucky Nows
Mar
21

The Lucky Nows

Featuring renown singer-songwriter Jen Cass, the stunning work of harmonica legend Rosco Selley, and the vast and varied musical chops of multi-instrumentalists Eric Janetsky and Michael Robertson, The Lucky Nows have spent the last decade showcasing their stellar songwriting, exceptional musicianship, and intricate harmonies on some of the country’s most famous stages, from The Ark to Wheatland, and everywhere in between. The Lucky Nows have been honored to share the stage with many of our heros, and make it a point to extend opportunity and grace to new singer-songwriters at every step of our journey.
They will be joined by Ozzie Andrews on bass.

Ticketed Show | 6:30 PM | 6 PM Doors

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Adam Labeaux & Amy Petty Quartet
Mar
21

Adam Labeaux & Amy Petty Quartet

Adam Labeaux has established an indelible legacy within the Michigan music scene. His music is deeply rooted in folk, classic rock, funk, pop, and soul. Amy Petty is an incredibly versatile performer. A classically trained vocalist, her voice is at the same time overwhelmingly powerful and impossibly delicate. 
Amy and Adam only perform together a few times each year. And when these musical friends come together the result is nothing short of magical. Their voices, matched in intensity and delicacy, weave and blend together effortlessly, and their songs sit beside each other comfortably painting stories that are intimate, personal, and universal. 

Ticketed Show | 9:00 PM | 8:30 Doors

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Happy Hour: Kait Bimer
Mar
25

Happy Hour: Kait Bimer

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Kait Bimer is a vocalist, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, studying Vocal Jazz at the University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theatre & Dance. Her artistry bridges genres from jazz and folk to rock, funk, R&B, and soul, and she leads two bands: Out of Focus (rock) and ON TAP (soul/R&B). She has performed at venues across Michigan including The Ark, The Blind Pig, North Star Lounge, Ore Creek, and at festivals such as SpringFest, Melon Fest, and Mary Court Music Festival. ON TAP released their debut single “pennies” on September 20th, while Out of Focus is fundraising for their first EP. Beyond performing, Kait teaches voice, piano, guitar, flute, and piccolo, sharing her passion for music with the next generation.

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Happy Hour: Tofu Ink Book Launch & Reading
Mar
26

Happy Hour: Tofu Ink Book Launch & Reading

Join us for a free happy hour event!
Tofu Ink Arts Press takeover: a high-energy happy hour where "un-humdrum’d" literature takes center stage. Sonic raw intensity-inspired poetics that push the limits of the written word. This book launch is a vibrant collision of experimental risk and poetic storytelling with A2 locals, Brian L. Jacobs, who runs Tofu Ink Arts Press & is celebrating his epic new book of poetry, HOMOCAUST and with cosmic flaire Poetry Pushcart Nominee, Sara E. Hughes. Designed to make you "think about thinking" while soaking in the electric atmosphere of Ann Arbor’s favorite lounge. Don't just attend a reading, absorb the possibilities, and celebrate the release of Tofu Ink Volume 7 with the vanguard of the local indie press scene while enjoying a cocktail...

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LGBTQ Night: Trivia with Terry McClymonds
Mar
26

LGBTQ Night: Trivia with Terry McClymonds

Test your knowledge! Come with friends; make new friends, enjoy LGBTQ trivia like you’ve never experienced before! Your host, Terry McClymonds (who was the resident trivia master at Aut Bar for 9 years) will take you through both a verbal and written round. Food and drinks available for purchase. Come early for happy hour; club opens at 5pm

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Happy Hour: Blockhouse Valley
Mar
27

Happy Hour: Blockhouse Valley

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Formed as the creative endeavor of musical couple Ashleigh and Cody Cooper, Blockhouse Valley quickly gained a reputation for their unique takes on popular songs. Their original music draws deeply from the American Rust Belt, capturing the textures of Midwest living and Appalachian roots. Influenced by regional folk and bluegrass as much as by the alternative, rock, blues, pop, and country of the 90s and 00s, Blockhouse Valley creates music that blends grit and heart with modern relevance.

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Bluegrass Friday: Pontiac Trail Blazers ft. Ryan Michaud
Mar
27

Bluegrass Friday: Pontiac Trail Blazers ft. Ryan Michaud

Hailing from the Ann Arbor area, the Pontiac Trail Blazers have been the house bluegrass band for Detroit Street Filling Station since 2017. They are often joined by a bevy of special guests and focus on the beautiful harmonies and acoustic prowess that are unique to their Bluegrass roots. With a deep repertoire of traditional standards, originals, and unique covers, the Trail Blazers will keep you guessing with unexpected tunes and arrangements every week. Joining them this week is Ryan Michaud on banjo.

$10 cover

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Kate Hinote Trio and Emily Rose
Mar
28

Kate Hinote Trio and Emily Rose

The Kate Hinote Trio and Emily Rose will be joining forces for their collective North Star Lounge debut. Join us for a special 90 minute collaborative performance showcasing songs they have released independently or otherwise performed together over the last few years as their friendship and musical endeavors have intertwined and flourished.

Ticketed Show | 6:00 PM | 5:30 PM Doors

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Happy Hour: Mikey Abbasspour
Apr
1

Happy Hour: Mikey Abbasspour

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Weaving styles from around the globe, Mikey creates a tapestry webbed with romantic boleros, classic tunes, and Celtic melodies. As a writer, Mikey draws from a worldly pool of influences and classical study to evoke wonders of nature and musical tales. As a songwriter, his influences include Bob Dylan, Fleet Foxes, and Wilco.

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Happy Hour: Tom Egel
Apr
2

Happy Hour: Tom Egel

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Making his second solo appearance at North Star Lounge, Tom will be performing a tribute to Todd Snider who tragically passed away in November. Todd Snider was able to not only tell a story with his songwriting, but he also made you feel like he was an old friend. During this performance, Tom will be recreating some of Todd’s music and sharing some of his memories of Todd over the years starting with his appearance at the 2001 Ann Arbor Folk Festival along with several performances at the the Ark in Ann Arbor.  For Tom, there’s always been something special about a solo acoustic guitar performance and Todd Snider was the one of the best at his craft. We hope you can make it to enjoy some of Todd Snider’s heartfelt songs and stories.

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LGBTQ Night: Queer Open Mic
Apr
2

LGBTQ Night: Queer Open Mic

Bring your song, story, poetry, comedy, expression, magic, monologue, mood, presence, attention, and appreciation to a safe and welcoming space in the beautiful queer community as we connect with each other and each other’s art. Sign-up begins at 6:30

Hosted by Coley Roberts and Thea Zuby.

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Happy Hour: Randy Tessier Band
Apr
3

Happy Hour: Randy Tessier Band

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Randy Tessier is an Ann Arbor-based guitarist, bassist, vocalist, and songwriter who has been a dynamic force in the Michigan music scene since the early 1970s. Known for his versatility and deep musicality, Randy has performed with a wide range of bands including Walrus, Private Sector, Los Chickens, George Bedard & the Kingpins, FUBAR, Al Jacquez Band, and Starfish. His expansive style spans blues, jazz, rock, funk, soul, and experimental sounds—delivering performances that are both grounded in groove and rich in creative expression. Joining him are Rich Dishman, Brigitte Knudson, Don Kuhli and Patrick Little.

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Bluegrass Friday: Pontiac Trail Blazers ft. Brad phillips
Apr
3

Bluegrass Friday: Pontiac Trail Blazers ft. Brad phillips

Hailing from the Ann Arbor area, the Pontiac Trail Blazers have been the house bluegrass band for Detroit Street Filling Station since 2017. They are often joined by a bevy of special guests and focus on the beautiful harmonies and acoustic prowess that are unique to their Bluegrass roots. With a deep repertoire of traditional standards, originals, and unique covers, the Trail Blazers will keep you guessing with unexpected tunes and arrangements every week. Joining them this week is Brad Phillips on fiddle.

$10 cover

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CHASING THE FECKLESS MUSE: The Dark Art of Songwriting, featuring the music of Mike Green and Bart Moore
Apr
4

CHASING THE FECKLESS MUSE: The Dark Art of Songwriting, featuring the music of Mike Green and Bart Moore

In this age of AI (Artificial Intelligence), Mike Green and Bart Moore will trade songs and conversation that instead represent HMM (Human Made Music). This one-of-a-kind concert also features ABH (Almost Brutal Honesty); DQ (Disconcerting Questions); GGP (Great Guitar Playing); and songs that convey what is beautiful - and what is bizarre - in the worlds they inhabit. Bart and Mike bring deep experience and lifetimes of music to their fascinating songwriting and performances, and they will explore this and more with each other, and with you.

Ticketed Show | 9 PM | 8:30 PM Doors

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Happy Hour: Lauren Crane
Apr
8

Happy Hour: Lauren Crane

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Lauren Crane writes a lot of stuff. Including songs. Which she also sings. She put a show together especially for Happy Hour at the North Star Lounge on April 8.  (She, like so many others, LOVES the North Star Lounge.) Lauren will be singing songs about farm animals, murder, extortion, body parts, food and other things. There may be spoken word. Probably, some laughs. And, new for 2026, she giving away attendee mementos unique to each of her shows. So come, April 8, 5:30—6:30. You’ll find out why they call it Happy Hour.

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Earthwork Music Collective ft. Joe Reilly, Amber Hasan, Chris Good & Dede alder
Apr
8

Earthwork Music Collective ft. Joe Reilly, Amber Hasan, Chris Good & Dede alder

Earthwork Music Collective believes in the intrinsic power of music to raise both community and self-awareness. Comprised of musicians, teachers, healers, farmers, water protectors, and community organizers, they encourage cooperation and collaboration, using music as a tool to serve, heal, inspire and empower. This monthly series features members from all around MI converging to create cosmic collabs, cultivate lasting relationships with our community, and elevate environmental and social justice movements.
This month’s show will feature performances by Joe Reilly, Amber Hasan, Chris Good & Dede Alder.

Ticketed Show | 7:00 PM | 6:30 PM Doors

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Happy Hour: saahnjoo
Apr
9

Happy Hour: saahnjoo

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
saahnjoo is a solo ambient-pop project featuring voice, keyboards, and drum machine. Detroit-metro based by way of New Jersey, saahnjoo writes songs covering loss, gratitude, and hope.

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HAPPY HOUR: The Widdershins
Apr
10

HAPPY HOUR: The Widdershins

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
The Widdershins are a college-town band from the Ann Arbor / Ypsilanti area which take their name from a Scottish adverb meaning “to move counterclockwise or in a contrary fashion”. It is led by Milan Seth, a talented vocalist and composer who plays rhythm guitar, backed by Dan McConnell’s exotic collection of basses, old-hand Scott Marlowe with his unique lead guitar style and backing vocals, and Jerome Drummond on bop kit. They play as many original Seth/Marlowe compositions as they do covers – music that is tuneful, refreshingly literate, and always widdershins – music to comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable.

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Bluegrass Friday: Pontiac Trail Blazers ft. Jack Wagner
Apr
10

Bluegrass Friday: Pontiac Trail Blazers ft. Jack Wagner

Hailing from the Ann Arbor area, the Pontiac Trail Blazers have been the house bluegrass band for Detroit Street Filling Station since 2017. They are often joined by a bevy of special guests and focus on the beautiful harmonies and acoustic prowess that are unique to their Bluegrass roots. Joining them this week is Jack Wagner on saxophone.

$10 cover

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Kevin Meisel w/ Alex Anest & Ozzie Andrews
Apr
11

Kevin Meisel w/ Alex Anest & Ozzie Andrews

Born the son of a big band musician, Kevin Meisel grew up with the sound and spirit of music around him. Raised in Detroit, and traveling around the states, he listened to the streets, hearing the stories of those around him with an ear for empathy, translation and narrative. He will be joined by Alex Anest & Ozzie Andrews.

Ticketed Show | 9 PM | 8:30 Doors

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Happy Hour: Nathan Emmet
Apr
15

Happy Hour: Nathan Emmet

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Like a lot of people, Nathan Emmet is a fan of Debussy, Miles Davis, Nick Drake, and Nujabes. But then, you might ask, who out there is trying to mash all those kinds of rich, flowy-type jazz sounds into hazy folk music? As far as I know, not many, but he is. Without being overly bummed out or jolly-ho, a lot of his songs are dream-like but singable tunes that like to go in unexpected directions, kind of the way dreams do. After 15 years of writing and performing, Ypsi native Nathan Emmet is a hometown DIY guy that you'll see and hopefully say, "Oh yeah, I've seen that guy walking around before. I didn't know he makes pretty ok music, too.

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Karaoke Night
Apr
15

Karaoke Night

A night for those of you that sing in the shower and belt it in traffic. A night for those that have no proper place to perform. We have your stage at North Star Lounge! Lousy singer? We don’t care. Just bring a good time.

Hosted by our very own Ryan M.

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Happy Hour: Mary Magdalene
Apr
16

Happy Hour: Mary Magdalene

Join us for a free happy hour performance!
Mary Magdalene is just your run-of-the-mill aspiring teenage drag queen. She is so excited to get the opportunity to perform at North Star in her hometown of Ann Arbor! Come on down for drinks, food, and a night of dancing and diva-licious magic!

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Happy Hour: Critter Ruwart
Apr
17

Happy Hour: Critter Ruwart

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Critter Ruwart is a Michigan folk band rooted in authentic story telling and rhythmic instrumentation. Originally found in Wyoming by brothers Chris and Brendan Ruwart, the band has grown to include recent U of M grad’s Jack Michalak and Igor Trifunovic. 

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Bluegrass Friday: Pontiac Trail Blazers ft. Critter Ruwart
Apr
17

Bluegrass Friday: Pontiac Trail Blazers ft. Critter Ruwart

Hailing from the Ann Arbor area, the Pontiac Trail Blazers have been the house bluegrass band for Detroit Street Filling Station since 2017. They are often joined by a bevy of special guests and focus on the beautiful harmonies and acoustic prowess that are unique to their Bluegrass roots. With a deep repertoire of traditional standards, originals, and unique covers, the Trail Blazers will keep you guessing with unexpected tunes and arrangements every week. Joining them this week is Michigan-based folk band Critter Ruwart

$10 cover

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Greg Austill
Apr
18

Greg Austill

Greg Austill is an Indie Folk Artist from Otisville, Michigan. From a young age, gospel and bluegrass music were a heavy influence on his musical direction, eventually leading to a love of Folk/Americana music. Priding himself on raw and authentic writing and performance style, Greg connects with his audience through original songs as well as thoughtfully arranged cover songs.

Ticketed Show | 6:00 PM | 5:30 PM Doors

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Greg Austill & Friends ft. Critter Ruwart
Apr
18

Greg Austill & Friends ft. Critter Ruwart

Greg Austill is an Indie Folk Artist from Otisville, Michigan. From a young age, gospel and bluegrass music were a heavy influence on his musical direction, eventually leading to a love of Folk/Americana music. Priding himself on raw and authentic writing and performance style, Greg connects with his audience through original songs as well as thoughtfully arranged cover songs.
For this set, Greg will be joined by Critter Ruwart, a Michigan folk band rooted in authentic story telling and rhythmic instrumentation.

Ticketed Show | 8:00 PM | 7:30 PM Doors

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Laura McAndrew & Friends
Apr
22

Laura McAndrew & Friends

Join us for a casual hangout to raise funds for ACLU! Michigan-based singer-songwriter Laura McAndrew is joined by her friends Kyler Wilkins aka Ki5, Coley Roberts, Jess Corkins, So Say We All, Emily Slomovits, Aviva Match and James Bourland for a mix of originals and covers to soothe you through this week in late capitalism.

$20 Suggested Donation

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Happy Hour: Birjy
Apr
23

Happy Hour: Birjy

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Birjy is the wide-ranging electroacoustic solo project of Ypsilanti-based violist, singer, and composer Lea Detlefs. Using a looper and fx she continues the tradition started by violin looping extraordinaires such as Andrew Bird, Kishi Bashi, and Dixon's violin, with her own unique take on the one-man band act. Her music, ranging from originals to video game covers, has folk, world music, and post-rock vibes and may, it's been said, ‘transport you to another world’.

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LGBTQ Night: Trivia with Terry McClymonds
Apr
23

LGBTQ Night: Trivia with Terry McClymonds

Test your knowledge! Come with friends; make new friends, enjoy LGBTQ trivia like you’ve never experienced before! Your host, Terry McClymonds (who was the resident trivia master at Aut Bar for 9 years) will take you through both a verbal and written round. Food and drinks available for purchase. Come early for happy hour; club opens at 5pm

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Happy Hour: Joshua Elwood & Friends
Apr
24

Happy Hour: Joshua Elwood & Friends

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Joshua Elwood has forged a unique musical path, moving between communities and immersing himself in multiple traditions along the way! He is enamored with the romantic charm of classic jazz, shaped by the discipline of classical study, and unapologetically drawn to the irresistible melody of a fiddle tune. Together with his “merry band” of adventurous and deeply committed peers, Josh blends counterpoint with companionship, crafting performances where virtuosity meets warmth and joy finds every listener!

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BLUEGRASS FRIDAY: Thunder & Rain
Apr
24

BLUEGRASS FRIDAY: Thunder & Rain

Thunder and Rain is a four-piece new grass band from Nashville, Tennessee. Touring and recording since 2014, the band delivers high-energy performances full of melodic hooks and grassy drive. Founding member Erinn Peet-Lukes (guitar, vocals) is joined by Amelia Ransom (fiddle) and Laura Ray (banjo), with rotating guest bassists. Their sound combines bluegrass instrumentation with pop and rock song structures, rich three-part harmony, and skillful picking. Peet-Lukes has earned national recognition for her songwriting at Kerrville Folk Fest, Merlefest, and the IBMA Songwriter Showcase.

$10 cover

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Schmaltz
Apr
25

Schmaltz

Schmaltz, a modern klezmer band based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, gives Jewish traditional music a new flavor by fusing elements of jazz, balkan, funk, latin, and polka. The group is seen frequently as part of a monthly residency at the North Star Lounge in Ann Arbor, as well as at synagogues, bars, jazz clubs, and other music venues all across SE Michigan.

Ticketed Show | 9 PM | 8:30 PM Doors

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Happy Hour: Will Kaye
Apr
29

Happy Hour: Will Kaye

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Will Kaye’s intimate guitar, soft voice, and oblique lyrics offer an unflinching look into his inner world. Hailing from Saginaw, Michigan and currently based in Ann Arbor, Kaye crafts an introspective and cerebral sound blending both the American and British folk traditions, evoking the works of musicians such as Nick Drake, Bob Dylan, Adrianne Lenker, and Paul Simon. His stark yet elusive work exploring themes of love, longing, grief, and hope have established Kaye as one of Southeast Michigan’s most affecting emerging acts.

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Happy Hour: Julia Rose
Apr
30

Happy Hour: Julia Rose

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Julia Rose is a singer-songwriter known for her soulful voice, honest lyrics, and captivating live performances. Blending folk, soul, and indie influences, she delivers songs that are both powerful and deeply personal.

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HAPPY HOUR: Josh Rose
May
1

HAPPY HOUR: Josh Rose

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Josh Rose’s songs float into the room like a Lake Michigan evening onshore breeze. They refresh you, they energize you, and they linger long into the darkness of your favorite nights. His endless catalogue will make every interaction unique and fluid in the hearts and minds of the listener. He has played thousands of shows throughout the Midwest in his 20 year career and has shared the stage with KT Tunstall, G Love and Special Sauce, Ziggy Marley, and Styx. Welcome to the Head-in-the-Clouds Folk music of Josh Rose.

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BLUEGRASS FRIDAY: PONTIAC TRAIL BLAZERS ft. Madcat Ruth
May
1

BLUEGRASS FRIDAY: PONTIAC TRAIL BLAZERS ft. Madcat Ruth

Hailing from the Ann Arbor area, the Pontiac Trail Blazers have been the house bluegrass band for Detroit Street Filling Station since 2017. They are often joined by a bevy of special guests and focus on the beautiful harmonies and acoustic prowess that are unique to their Bluegrass roots. Joining them this week is Madcat Ruth on harmonica & ukulele.

$10 cover

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Philip Bowen
May
2

Philip Bowen

Philip Bowen is a dynamic and engaging singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist whose sound is steeped in the rich traditions of his Appalachian roots. Born and raised in West Virginia, he picked up the fiddle at age four and built a loyal following through his energetic performances—amassing over 1.5 million fans and followers online. His viral success led to a win on TikTok’s Greatest Talent competition, and he’s since graced stages like The Bluebird Café, 3rd & Lindsley, and NPR’s Mountain Stage - with a potential return planned for 2025.

| 6:30 Show / Doors at 6:00 | 8:30 Show / Doors at 8:00 |

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Happy Hour: Panda Pete
May
6

Happy Hour: Panda Pete

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Pete Schumann (Panda Pete) is a songwriter/singer/ performer that plays a wide range of musical styles that lean heavily Americana and pop. Singing for over 40 years, Pete is known for a beautiful and dynamic vocal style and his songs are personal glimpses into those moments that make our life complete. Baritone ukulele, acoustic guitar and harmonica are his main instruments.  Pete shares his feelings, humor and insights from the stage and connects with the audience on a personal level.

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Happy Hour: Levi Lamberjack
May
7

Happy Hour: Levi Lamberjack

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Luxembourgish/American folk musician Levi Lamberjack has always been on a journey to bring new life to old sounds, drawing inspirations from the Appalachian folk, blues, jazz, and country music bred in the land he grew up in. His eclectic repertoire brings a unique timbre to his sound, yet the listener still feels a sense of familiarity and a sacred sort of rootedness.  His smooth and confident vocals and old-timey guitar are sure to intrigue, and hopefully touch and inspire.  Drawing inspiration from pioneers and revivalists of traditional folk music recording such as Dave Van Ronk, Ramblin' Jack Elliott, and Mississippi John Hurt, and later from the heartfelt new songs of Blaze Foley, Tom Paxton, and Utah Phillips, Levi blends the ailments of ages past with the very real trials of modern society and personal woes. Modern comparisons include C.W. Stoneking, Willie Watson, and Jeffrey Martin.

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LGBTQ Night: Queer Open Mic
May
7

LGBTQ Night: Queer Open Mic

Bring your song, story, poetry, comedy, expression, magic, monologue, mood, presence, attention, and appreciation to a safe and welcoming space in the beautiful queer community as we connect with each other and each other’s art. Sign-up begins at 6:30

Hosted by Coley Roberts and Thea Zuby.

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Happy Hour:  Blou Reed
May
8

Happy Hour: Blou Reed

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Blou Reed (pronounced BLOO Reed) blends jazz improvisation and harmony with strong, groove based rhythms to create a sound that bares the torch of tradition to light the way to the future of modern music. The band presents a wide ranging catalogue of original compositions and hip arrangements of well known Jazz standards.

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Madcat & Seifert
May
9

Madcat & Seifert

Peter Madcat Ruth & Stephen Seifert have formed a duo! Peter Madcat Ruth is a Grammy Award-winning virtuoso harmonica player. Stephen Seifert is a highly acclaimed mountain dulcimer player who has performed at music festivals all over the world. Together they present a purely acoustic, and extremely eclectic mix of Americana, folk music, blues, jazz, string band music, country music, soul music, and rock & roll. They are quite likely the only harmonica and dulcimer duo in the world!

Ticketed Show | 6:30 PM | 6:00 Doors

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Fangs & Twang
May
9

Fangs & Twang

Founded in 2014 with a theatrical concept, Fangs & Twang has evolved into a genre-blending powerhouse that fuses gothic horror, cryptozoology, classic rock, Americana, and outlaw country into a high-energy live show. Their eclectic sound delivers both humor and substance.

Ticketed Show | 9 PM | 8:30 Doors

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LGBTQ Night: Spring Clothing swap Dyke night
Mar
12

LGBTQ Night: Spring Clothing swap Dyke night

Early spring is upon us with rain and squelchy mud, and we are hosting a clothing swap in honor of spring cleaning, spring glow ups, and the little bit of fun and sprinkle of something new that we could all use after winter!!

How it works: Pull a gently loved item or two from your closet that you’d like to trade. Come to Dyke Night for good drinks, good snacks, and good people. We will have a table set up where we can spread out clothing items & accessories, and people can take a thing or two as they please! Anything left at the end of the night will be donated.

As always, our space is trans inclusive.

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HAPPY HOUR: Hannah Boike
Mar
11

HAPPY HOUR: Hannah Boike

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Hannah is a singer/songwriter from Flushing, Michigan, whose sound blends alternative folk with elements of R&B and soul. She currently has two singles out that you can listen to, as well as releasing her first music video this year. Hannah is currently working on her debut EP, which she plans to release next summer. She hopes her music resonates with you and appreciates your support on this journey

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Turner Luce
Mar
7

Turner Luce

SOLD OUT

Turner Luce is an Ann Arbor-based band that has performed numerous shows in Southeast Michigan since forming in 2019. The band emphasizes country rock and Americana stylings, playing both original songs and so-called “deep covers” by such groups as Tom Petty, Paul Simon, Sam Philips, and other legendary artists. Turner Luce consists of Dave Buehrer on bass and vocals, Philip Camp on violin, Dan Degener on keyboard and vocals, and Mark Scott on guitar and lead vocals. The band will be performing several original songs from its double EP release—“Nothing Left to Say” and “Past the Time”—on Spotify and other music streaming services.

Ticketed Show | 8:30 PM | 8:00 Doors

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Paledave
Mar
7

Paledave

SOLD OUT

Ypsilanti, Michigan-based Paledave, a.k.a. Dave Buehrer, is a recording artist whose songs combine rock guitar with creative arrangements, thoughtful lyrics, and catchy pop hooks. His angst and rock n roll attitude works its way into your cells, but leaves you on a high note. Paledave performs solo, as an acoustic duo (Paledave & Jenny Fair), and with his full band. He began performing his music in 2004 and has 3 album releases - Find What You Love (2004), One Good Leg (2008), and Still Tickets Left (2018). While continuing to perform with his other bands, Outbound Packard and Turner Luce, in 2026 Paledave will be back in the public eye with new songs and shows. His fans say his music reminds them of REM, Michael Penn, The Wallflowers, Tom Petty, and The Replacements, his biggest influence.

Ticketed Show | 6:30 PM | 6:00 Doors

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BLUEGRASS FRIDAY: PONTIAC TRAIL BLAZERS ft. Tony Pace
Mar
6

BLUEGRASS FRIDAY: PONTIAC TRAIL BLAZERS ft. Tony Pace

Hailing from the Ann Arbor area, the Pontiac Trail Blazers have been the house bluegrass band for Detroit Street Filling Station since 2017. They are often joined by a bevy of special guests and focus on the beautiful harmonies and acoustic prowess that are unique to their Bluegrass roots. Joining them this week is Tony Pace on Dobro.

$10 cover

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Happy Hour: The Wildflowers
Mar
6

Happy Hour: The Wildflowers

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Shannon, Kandy, and Hilary weave together intricate harmonies, acoustic instrumentation, and captivating original music. The trio pours their heart and soul into every song, creating a sound inspired by diverse music traditions, yet remaining uniquely their own.

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LGBTQ Night: Queer Trivia w/ tory sparks
Mar
5

LGBTQ Night: Queer Trivia w/ tory sparks

Tory Sparks (the founder & very first host of LGBTQ trivia at North Star!) is back to test your knowledge. Come with friends or make new friends in a fun and safe environment!
Food and drinks available for purchase. Come early for happy hour; club opens at 5pm, trivia starts at 7:00 sharp (get your team together and signed up before then!)

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Happy Hour: Cincinnati Beer Gut
Mar
5

Happy Hour: Cincinnati Beer Gut

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Cincinnati Beer Gut is a must see, one man cowpunk band from Ohio. Simultaneously playing drums, guitar and singing, CBG performs his unique blend of rockabilly, 60s garage rock and tear in your beer country ballads all while sporting a luchador mask and his signature western nudie suit. 

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Happy Hour: Jeremy Siegrist
Mar
4

Happy Hour: Jeremy Siegrist

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Jeremy started regularly performing in the late 90’s, founded theillalogicalspoon in Jackson, MI in the year 2000, and Little Spoon River in the Irish Hills Area in 2019. His solo performances are full of emotional intensity and intimacy with a focus on the poetry and stories. With songs full of the ecstasy and trauma of being alive he explores the tensions between wildness and civilization, spirit and matter. The music moves from acoustic-punk to experimental to versions of traditional folk tunes, country blues, hymns, and sing-a-longs.

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Rollie Tussing Trio
Feb
28

Rollie Tussing Trio

Award winning finger-style and slide guitarist Rollie Tussing teams up with trumpeter Ross Huff and bass player Serge van der Voo to perform timeless classic jazz and country blues, dewy-eyed tunes of the 20s and 30s, as well as godforsaken songs of the nineteenth century. Their own compositions are influenced by those same lonesome, haunted and abandoned melodies that we all forgot to remember.

Ticketed Show | 9 PM | 8:30 PM Doors

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Bluegrass Friday: Pontiac Trail Blazers ft. Dave Keeney
Feb
27

Bluegrass Friday: Pontiac Trail Blazers ft. Dave Keeney

Hailing from the Ann Arbor area, the Pontiac Trail Blazers have been the house bluegrass band for Detroit Street Filling Station since 2017. They are often joined by a bevy of special guests and focus on the beautiful harmonies and acoustic prowess that are unique to their Bluegrass roots. With a deep repertoire of traditional standards, originals, and unique covers, the Trail Blazers will keep you guessing with unexpected tunes and arrangements every week. Featuring David Keeney on guitar.

$10 cover

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HAPPY HOUR: Dave Keeney & Sophia Hanifi
Feb
27

HAPPY HOUR: Dave Keeney & Sophia Hanifi

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Dave Keeney and Sophia Hanifi are known as the hardest working couple in the Ann Arbor music scene. Sophia’s versatile and distinctive vocals have graced bands from Map of the World, FUBAR and Hoodang. Dave has lent his considerable guitar, dobro and singing talent to scores of local artists as a versatile sideman, while also representing one third of the country rock outfit, Hoodang. Together, they bring new life into everything from country and pop standards to overlooked gems from any category you can name. Together in life and together in song, they make a greater sum than each of their individual talents.

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LGBTQ Night: Queer Open Mic
Feb
26

LGBTQ Night: Queer Open Mic

Bring your song, story, poetry, comedy, expression, magic, monologue, mood, presence, attention, and appreciation to a safe and welcoming space in the beautiful queer community as we connect with each other and each other’s art. Sign-up begins at 6:30

Hosted by Coley Roberts and Thea Zuby.

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Happy Hour: Chris Halverson
Feb
26

Happy Hour: Chris Halverson

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Chris Halverson is a Royal Oak, MI-based guitarist and composer, attempting to blend elements of jazz, ambient and fingerstyle into a holistic sound all his own. His first single, Shadow of a Bird, was released on September 5th, 2025, closely followed by his debut full length, One Day We’ll Cut Down Our Own Tree, released October 3rd, 2025. He is currently writing, recording and readying his next release.

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Happy Hour: Lily Bowen
Feb
25

Happy Hour: Lily Bowen

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Lily Bowen is a singer/songwriter based in the Detroit area. She has 8 singles released on all streaming platforms, and is influenced by pop artists like Gracie Abrams and Lizzy McAlpine. She has performed at many local events, like the Ann Arbor Art Fair and Dally in the Alley.

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Mike Vial (wsg Shiny Shiny Black)
Feb
21

Mike Vial (wsg Shiny Shiny Black)

Mike Vial not only believes life is stranger than fiction; he’s lived it. After 20+ years of teaching and playing acoustic centered music, writing songs and performing concerts, he has accumulated more stories than he can tell. Mike will be accompanied by bassist Ozzie Andrews.

Shiny Shiny Black, an award-winning alternative folk band from Goshen, IN, will be opening the show.

Ticketed Show | 8:30 PM | 8 PM Doors

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Bluegrass Friday: Pontiac Trail Blazers ft. Emily Slomovitz & Billy King
Feb
20

Bluegrass Friday: Pontiac Trail Blazers ft. Emily Slomovitz & Billy King

Hailing from the Ann Arbor area, the Pontiac Trail Blazers have been the house bluegrass band for Detroit Street Filling Station since 2017. They are often joined by a bevy of special guests and focus on the beautiful harmonies and acoustic prowess that are unique to their Bluegrass roots. With a deep repertoire of traditional standards, originals, and unique covers, the Trail Blazers will keep you guessing with unexpected tunes and arrangements every week. They will be joined by Emily Slomovitz on fiddle & Billy King on guitar

$10 cover

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Happy Hour: LUVPLANET
Feb
20

Happy Hour: LUVPLANET

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Singer, Songwriter, Guitarists, Nicole Sutton and Mark McGee are the heart and fire behind Luvplanet and its musical mission! Together with undeniable chemistry they craft magnetic, feel good rock'n'roll filled with potent lyrics, lush vocal harmonies, psychedelic guitar jams and infectious optimism! Mixing Rock, Pop, Country and Blues their timeless songs ignite the hearts of the listeners. Together with drummer Michael Amos and bassist Zak Plantus, they generate a powerful presence and persuasive sound

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LGBTQ Night: Trivia with Terry McClymonds
Feb
19

LGBTQ Night: Trivia with Terry McClymonds

Test your knowledge! Come with friends; make new friends, enjoy LGBTQ trivia like you’ve never experienced before! Your host, Terry McClymonds (who was the resident trivia master at Aut Bar for 9 years) will take you through both a verbal and written round. Food and drinks available for purchase. Come early for happy hour; club opens at 5pm

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Happy Hour: Elisabeth Pixley-Fink
Feb
19

Happy Hour: Elisabeth Pixley-Fink

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Elisabeth Pixley-Fink is a Michigan-based singer-songwriter, producer, and bandleader. Her emotion-focused folk and bratty garage rock hits you in the chest with guts, trust and hunger. Her current album, Heartskin, is a powerful interweaving of indie rock and folk storytelling, inspired by a masterful blend of riot grrrl, ambient stillness, and queer poetry.

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Community Drum Circle Guided by Sundance
Feb
18

Community Drum Circle Guided by Sundance

Come join the drum circle and create a supportive, encouraging community as we share rhythms and voices and explore the music that can be created together. Sundance has been inspired by drumming influenced by the African rhythms that have spread around the world, and the true medicine that comes from letting go and tapping into the Ancestral Voices. From his many years studying hand drumming traditions, Sundance has learned how to guide the drum circle journey while encouraging all to share what they have to give. No experience needed, just listen to your own heartbeat, and share your song. Extra drums will be available.

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Happy Hour: Andy Baker
Feb
18

Happy Hour: Andy Baker

Join us for a free happy hour concert!
Michigan singer/songwriter Andy Baker has spent 3 decades captivating audiences with his unique style of soul satisfying folk. His recent accolades include winning the 2020 Kerrville Newfolk Songwriting Competition and the 2022 Great River Folk Festival Songwriting Competition, as well as being featured as an Emerging Artist at the 2020 Falcon Ridge Folk Festival. His 2020 album “North Country Sky” spent several months on the National Folk DJ charts, and Jon Stein, host of WTBQ’s Hootenanny Cafe declares “Andy weaves breathtaking lyrics and melodies…He left me wanting more…much more!”

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Lucky 17
Feb
14

Lucky 17

With roots spanning from Texas, North Carolina, and all the way to Canada, Lucky 17 has forged a unique new musical offering here in Michigan. Singer-songwriters Ed Dupas, Caroline Barlow and Tony Pace have joined forces with local bass legend Ozzie Andrews to share their collective stories via song. Whether it's a dusty back road hymn, a song of loss, or a tune of hope and love, they deliver it all with authentic and soulful perspective. Three-part harmonies weave together with acoustic and electric instrumentation to offer an eclectic mix of song styles and textures. Collectively, their talents have graced many stages here and abroad including the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Ann Arbor Folk Festival, and Blissfest to name a few.

Ticketed Show | 8:30 PM | 8:00 Doors

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Dave & Kristi
Feb
14

Dave & Kristi

SOLD OUT!
Expect nothing but the real deal this Valentines Day at North Star Lounge. Dave & Kristi, an actual couple in love, will celebrate all the best the day has to offer with the able assistance of Emily Slomovitz, one of Ann Arbor’s favorite fiddle players. And don’t worry. It won’t get so mushy that singles or first daters will start squirming. It may be a candy and flowers day, but Dave & Kristi know that the greater love beyond romance is where the real good stuff lies.

Ticketed Show | 6 PM | 5:30 PM Doors

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