“Sister Hazel” to headline 2006 MAINStage
Southern alternative rock band “Sister Hazel” will headline CMU’s annual MAINStage event in August.
The band, featuring Ken Block (vocalist/guitarist), Andrew Copeland (guitarist/vocalist), Ryan Newell (lead guitarist), Jeff Beres (bassist), Mark Trojanowski (drummer), was popular in the 90s with hits like “All for You,” “Happy” and “Change Your Mind.”
“Sister Hazel” is touring throughout the summer. Its new album – “Absolutely” – comes out in September.
“We are all very happy with the choice,” said Eric Kmetz, Harper Woods junior and MAINStage co-chair.
MAINStage co-chair and Macomb junior Heather Hillman said she isn’t as familiar with the band as others are, but said students will be familiar with their music.
Kmetz said On the Fly and Program Board were interested in several bands to headline MAINStage, including “Panic! at the Disco,” “The Fray” and “All-American Rejects.”
“A lot of the bands we were looking at were going to be in Europe,” Hillman said.
In the end, “Sister Hazel” was the best fit, Kmetz said.
Hillman said she isn’t sure of the cost for the band. An offer was put out near the end of last week, and the band accepted the beginning of this week, Hillman said.
As for an opening act, nothing has been decided.
“We haven’t really talked about it,” Hillman said. “We might go local.”
MAINStage is an annual event the Sunday before classes begin in the fall. This year’s event will include three carnival rides, games, food, prizes and representatives from registered student organizations promoting their RSOs.
The involvement of local businesses also is of interest to the MAINStage crew.
“We’re trying to involve the community a bit more,” Kmetz said. “Let the freshmen know there’s more in the area.”
MAINStage will take place Sunday, Aug. 27, in Rose Ponds.
