Grass Lake has a new country star to cheer for.
Marla Moore, a Grass Lake Village resident and owner of the Ann Arbor Music Academy, claimed first place in the W4 Country 102.9 FM Country Idol 2026 competition on Friday, June 26th — and she did it in style, belting out Martina McBride's powerful anthem Independence Day to bring down the house at Revel Run in Chelsea.
The finals brought 20 singers to the stage, each competing for the top spot in one of the region's most anticipated local talent contests. The field was stacked with talent, but Marla's performance stood out from start to finish, earning her the W4 Country Idol title, a cash prize, and — perhaps most exciting — a coveted opening slot for Justin Moore at the Aretha Franklin Amphitheater in Detroit.
From Grass Lake to Chelsea — and Beyond
Marla's road to the finals started right here at home. On June 19th, she qualified at Missy's in Grass Lake, competing against 25 contestants in the preliminary round and earning her spot among the finalists. Seven days later, she made good on that promise in front of a packed crowd in Chelsea.
As owner of the Ann Arbor Music Academy, Marla teaches and inspires musicians in the region every day. Now, she's proving what's possible when you step out from behind the lesson plan and onto a stage of your own.
A Night Full of Talent
The finals were more than a competition — they were a showcase of the real musical depth that exists across Southeast Michigan. With 20 performers taking the stage at Revel Run, the evening was filled with standout performances from singers representing communities throughout the W4 Country listening area.
But when the dust settled, it was the voice from Grass Lake that the judges — and the crowd — couldn't shake.
Opening for Justin Moore in Detroit
As the W4 Country Idol winner, Marla will take the stage as the opening act for country star Justin Moore at the Aretha Franklin Amphitheater in Detroit. It's the kind of opportunity most singers only dream about — and for a Grass Lake local, it's a big moment for the whole community.
Stay tuned to Grass Lake Times for show date details as they're announced. And if you see Marla around the village — congratulate her. She's earned it.
— Grass Lake Times Staff