Hailing from Detroit Rock City, Amy Gore is the lead singer of the all girl, no glitz garage rock band the Gore Gore Girls. First discovered in 1998, the Gore Gore girls have just released their third album but have already played with such iconic acts as Iggy and the Stooges, the New York Dolls and the Cramps. Here, Amy gives us the goods on her hometown for this Stomping Grounds exclusive.
What’s your town’s nickname?
D-Town, Motown, Motor City.
Why do you live there?
I was born here. Can’t get out. Help me.
What is your favorite local attraction (monument, park, etc)?
The Conservatory on Belle Isle. It was my Grandmother’s favorite place.
What is your favorite local event/festival?
Fourth St. Fair, Dalley in the Alley.
What is the best time of year to be there?
Summer, Fall.
Where is the best place to drink and what’s their specialty or happy hour?
The Tiki Bar in my basement is comfortable and stylish. It’s happy hour all the time. Reservations required.
Who has the best jukebox (and what’s in it)?
Aside from the one that was in my basement up until recently, the Gasoline Alley juke is outstanding. I believe The Bronx Bar has an above average jukebox as well, however, my memories of The Bronx are always hazy …
Who is your favorite local celebrity/personality?
Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick, aka K-Dawg and Jack Kevorkian, otherwise known as Dr. Death. K-Dawg’s mayoral tenure is marred with local scandal, sometimes involving exotic dancers and motorcycle cops, which is always entertaining. Dr. Kevorkian is the so-called suicide doctor. I support Dr. Kevorkian! Vote K-Dawg!
What is your favorite place to see live music and what was your favorite show there?
The Gold Dollar on Cass, RIP. I spent the better (and worse) part of my early twenties there. Neil Yee is a saint, and a smart businessman. Favorite shows are Rocket 455, The Detroit Cobras, The Dirtys, Bantam Rooster and Gold Dollar Proms – back when RnR was a weekly event in this town. Above average and sorely missed.
What is your favorite local band?
Human Eye, Lee Marvin Computer Arm, Terrible Twos, Loretta Lucas and The Larkspurs, The Hentchmen, The Muggs, The Muldoons, The Displays, Molly-Jean.
What is your favorite local shop?
Lost and Found Vintage and Shine Boutique on Washington Ave in Royal Oak. Shoe Fair on Fort St. is closed.
What is your favorite diner or restaurant and what is their best dish?
Noble Fish. Octopus salad and Dynamite with sashimi.
What is your favorite record store and what was your best find there?
Broadway Records in Lake Orion, Michigan. Best find there, Blue Cheer /Vincebus Eruptum and Outside Inside w/ original gatefold
What is your favorite local publication (alternative weekly, zine, website or blog)?
The Farmer’s Almanac.
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