"Busk" a Move

One of the most amazing aspects of visiting downtown Detroit is the walk to your destination. Most people go to downtown Detroit for a purpose. Couples may be headed out to a nice dinner in Greek town in cocktail dresses or a nice pair of pants, ready for a fun night out on the town. You may see a group of friends huddled together drinking beers at Cheli’s Chili Bar before the big Red Wings hockey game. Other people are dressed to the nine in gorgeous gowns and suits, walking toward the Fox Theater to catch the show. Others might be running to the casinos to make some quick cash or support bad habits. Walking the streets of downtown Detroit, the city looks beautiful. Tall buildings lead you in mazes as you try to find your way down the right one way street. The sounds of car horns echo between buildings and the lights of offices shine above for those who work later than the typical nine to five-er. People nod and smile as you pass by, and the smell of fresh coney dogs fills the air. If you wanted to you could really spend a whole night just walking around downtown Detroit looking at the architecture and enjoying the sights. Although the sights to see and hear are endless, there will always be one that catches your attention more than the others. Buskers.

Buskers, better known as street performers, street musicians, minstrels or troubadours are people who perform in public places for money and or edibles. Busk means “to seek,” and street performers are doing just that, seeking out their moment in the spotlight, waiting for their shot at fame and fortune. In 1860, busters filled the streets of Great Brittan and today, the legacy still lives on in the streets of the big cities. In Detroit, they are everywhere. The sounds of trumpets, saxophones and guitars fill the streets as you turn the corner. As you get closer to the sound, you will come across a man playing his instrument as if it is a part of him. The street musicians of Detroit perform as if they are standing in front of the entire crowd inside Comerica Park for a Tigers game, even though people may just be listening as they walk pass, or a couple of people stop for a few moments to show their appreciation. Performers empty instrument cases lay in front of them as they play, and they are too busy playing to ever ask for money. The sounds they create are what brings the money to the cases. They are amazing artists, and show it with each song they play. Rain or shine, wind or snow, you will find them entertaining the city. It is an amazing experience to see their love and drive to make music, and if you’re lucky, maybe they will play a song especially for you.