The best (and worst) people in Detroit, according to our readers

By Layla McMurtrie on Thu, Oct 17, 2024 at 3:30 pm

Erik Paul Howard

U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib.

Detroit has spoken! From politicians and musicians to photographers — and even villains — these are some of the best (and worst) people in Detroit, as voted by you. Don’t miss the full list of winners in our Best of Detroit 2024 issue.

The Metro Times 2024 Best of Detroit: The ballots have been cast... for our annual reader’s poll

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Facebook, Mike Morse Law Firm

Best Attorney: Mike Morse

24901 Northwestern Hwy., Southfield | 855mikewins.com

A top personal injury lawyer in metro Detroit, known for memorable ads and successful cases.

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Josh Justice

Best Burlesque Performer: Eartha Kitten

earthakittenburlesque.com

A Detroit burlesque performer known for her glamorous performances across the city.

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Instagram, @djgodfatherdetroit

Best DJ: DJ Godfather

instagram.com/djgodfatherdetroit

A figure in Detroit’s electronic music scene, known for his mix of ghetto tech and electro beats.

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Photo by Tony Lowe (@tonylowephoto)

Best Drag Queen: Sabin

instagram.com/sabindetroit

A Detroit drag performer recognized for her bold performances and activism.

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Screengrab, YouTube

Best Local Ambassador & Best Musical Artist (Hip-Hop)

eminem.com

While a new age of Detroit rap is on the come up, Eminem is still a undoubtable icon of the city. His global stardom never diminished his deep roots in Detroit, from supporting local charities to representing the city worldwide.

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Screegrab via YouTube

Best Comedian: Jaded Jaden

A local comedian.

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Dontae Rockymore

Best Musical Artist (Americana): The Whiskey Charmers

thewhiskeycharmers.com

A Detroit-based Americana band blending country and rock influences, popular in the city's live music scene.

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CeCe Winans Facebook page

Best Musical Artist (Gospel): Cece Winans

cecewinans.com

Legendary gospel singer and 15-time Grammy Award winner born in Detroit.

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Josh Justice

Best Musical Artist (Rock): Twiztid

twiztid.com

This Detroit-based duo blends hip-hop with rock, and has gained a dedicated fan base.

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Josh Justice

Best Photographer: Josh Justice

joshjusticephotography.com

Metro Times photographer Josh Justice has won Best Photographer for the last five years.

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Courtesy photo

Best Poet: Nandi Comer

nandicomer.com

Michigan’s first poet laureate since 1959, this Detroit writer's work focuses on identity, culture, and place.

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Mike Pfeiffer

Best Tribute Band: The Mega 80’s

A popular Detroit-based band known for their energetic '80s-themed tribute shows.

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Instagram, @the_inkling_fountain

Best Visual Artist: Richard Halprin

instagram.com/the_inkling_fountain/

Detroit-based visual artist who "populates his paintings with people in puzzling predicaments."

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Cody Ross, Detroit Stock City

Worst Villain: Ex-Detroit Riverfront Conservancy CFO William Smith

Fired Chief Financial Officer of the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy who was charged with a federal crime after being accused of embezzling from the nonprofit and spending the money on airline tickets, limousines, jewelry and more.

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