Did You Attend Any Of These Legendary Concerts At The Intersection?

The Acrisure Amphitheater's opening night is on May 15th, with the inaugural concert headlined by none other than Lionel Richie, with Michiganders The War & Treaty and Brian Vander Ark from the Verge Pipe opening the show.

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In honor of this huge event, we're looking back at the other venues around Grand Rapids that have helped build Grand Rapids' incredible music scene. From the Van Andel Arena to the Orbit Room, we're looking at the legendary concerts from big bands (some from before they were big) that happened at these venues.

VIEW MORE LEGENDARY LINEUPS AROUND GRAND RAPIDS:

VAN ANDEL YEAR 1 | DELTAPLEX | THE ORBIT ROOM

Today, we're looking at Grand Rapids' longest-running concert venue, which recently celebrated its 50th year and has four stages that have hosted many acts that now sell out arenas: The Intersection.

The Intersection: A Brief History

Many of us know The Intersection for its location on the corner of Cherry St. and Caesar Chavez Ave, but that isn't where it got its start. Back in 1972, The Intersection originally opened on the other side of town in Eastown at 1520 Wealthy St SE, the current home of Eastown Bar & Grill. However, it outgrew the building and moved to its current location, where it's been since 2004.

VIEW MORE LEGENDARY LINEUPS AROUND GRAND RAPIDS:

VAN ANDEL YEAR 1 | DELTAPLEX | THE ORBIT ROOM

In 2018, the Intersection expanded to add two additional venues in its basement, bringing its offerings to four stages: the ~1,500-person Intersection (Showroom), the new ~800-person Elevation, the ~400-person The Stache, and a VIP/pre & post-show/small ~200-person venue called The Mint.

Speaking To Long-time General Manager, Scott Hammontree

Scott Hammontree has been the General Manager of the Intersection since  2003, along with his business partner, Joel Langlois, the former owner of the DeltaPlex Arena. We spoke with Scott about the Intersection's storied role in the city and his thoughts on the future.

Q: The Intersection recently eclipsed 50 years in business. What does it mean to you/Grand Rapids to have this kind of longevity?

A: Honestly, I am so amazed that we've been at this for so long after the move downtown. Independent concert venues generally have a shorter shelf life, so I am really thankful to the customers in West Michigan who keep us going. The community's support has been consistent and overwhelming. I think the fact that we produce shows from just about every single genre has been key.  

Q: Are there any specific shows that still stick out to you today?

A: For me and the 2,000-plus shows I have watched in the venue, I think a few that stand out are: Snoop Dogg, Jamey Johnson, Luke Bryan, Ratatat, a double bill with Panic! At The Disco and All American Rejects, Chappell Roan, Mutemath, Atmosphere, Pretty Lights' first show in GR, and Eric Church. There are really too many to list.

Q: How do you feel about the new Acrisure Amphitheater, especially given its proximity to your venue?

A: I think the Amphitheater will be great for the city, but it will create massive parking issues for both our employees and our guests. We do plan on having pre- and post-show parties in our parking lot, though. 

We thank Scott for his time. Now, let's look at some of the incredible acts that have graced the Intersection stage.