By James Windell
More than five years ago, Diane and Lisa Van Deurzen-Otey left their home in Tucson, Arizona to come to South Haven to help out a friend. They had no intention of staying in this area because they had established careers as jazz‑blues artists who had deep community involvement.
But once here, they decided to stay.
“We came here to help some friends and then decided to look at this as a new adventure,” says Lisa. “What an adventure this has been! We feel so loved and supported by the community here and are in constant awe of the doors that keep opening.”
Not that they were looking for new doors to open. Prior to coming to this area, they were Arizona Blues Hall of Fame inductees, internationally touring performers, and co‑producers of multiple albums.
But since 2021, Lisa and Diane have built a reputation in Western Michigan by producing inspiring concerts and hosting a monthly open-mic night that welcomes performers and audiences of all backgrounds.
On Monday, June 1, 2026 at the South Haven City Council meeting Diane and Lisa were honored with a proclamation by Mayor Annie Brown.
The proclamation reads in part: “Through their words and actions, Diane and Lisa have demonstrated the true meaning of inclusion, compassion, and acceptance – not merely speaking of love and unity, but living those values each day and reminding our community that love always wins… and Diane and Lisa have fostered a more inclusive and informed community by inviting Mary Jo Schnell of the OutCenter Southwest Michigan to lead workshops on LGBTQ+ awareness, and by championing ongoing advocacy and meaningful observances of Pride Month, Black History Month, Women’s History Month, and Transgender Day of Remembrance through testimonies, music, poetry, and displays.”
Collaborating as a piano and vocal duo for more than 20 years, they have become admired and beloved entertainers in the South Haven area. In the words of Mayor Brown’s proclamation, Diane and Lisa “have brought hope, joy, healing, and happiness to the City of South Haven by showcasing talented artists representing folk, blues, rhythm and blues, country, jazz, and other musical traditions, strengthening the cultural life of our community and creating spaces where people come together in celebration and connection.”
Besides performing as a duo at various venues, Diane and Lisa host a music series at the First Congregational Church in South Haven.
Following their acceptance of the proclamation, Diane and Lisa said they were humbled and honored by the recognition. “The South Haven Community has given us so much love and support,” Diane remarked. “We feel like they are all a part of our family and we are so grateful to be a part of this community.”
They indicated that their service to the community is far from over.
“We are very excited about the Sunday concerts we have planned at First Congregational UCC,” Lisa said. She said that they have a new treat for South Haven on Sunday, July 19 when they will put on a dinner and a show.
“It’s called “Soul Food Experience,” explains Diane, “and it will feature Serita’s Black Rose Duo. Serita Crowley, who is also a chef, and her partner in life and music, Jon Hayes, will be taking us on a culinary musical journey with a soulful concert plus BBQ chicken and other soul food.”
Their service to the community goes well beyond music, however. As Mayor Brown’s proclamation mentions, “Diane and Lisa also extend their kindness beyond the stage by preparing monthly hot meals for neighbors in need, which members of First Congregational Church lovingly deliver throughout the community, modeling warmth, graciousness, hospitality, and good humor for us all.”
