WDET 101.9 FM

The Moth StorySLAM — Give and Take
2023-11-02 18:30 (America/New_York) | Marble Bar, 1501 Holden Street, Detroit, MI, 48208, United States
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The Moth StorySLAM is an open-mic storytelling competition in which anyone can share a true, personal, 5-minute story on the night’s theme. Sign up for a chance to tell a story or sit back and enjoy the show!
This month’s theme is “give and take.” Prepare a five-minute story about the push and pull, an eye for an eye, a quid pro quo. The art of compromise — or lack thereof. Finding balance or disrupting the system. A tit for tat, giving in, or seizing the crown for yourself. What do you bring to the table?
Doors open: 6:30 p.m.
Show starts: 7:30 p.m.
Tickets for Detroit’s StorySLAMs go on sale three weeks prior to the show date at 3 p.m. ET.
Seating is not guaranteed and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please be sure to arrive at least 10 minutes before the show. Admission is not guaranteed for late arrivals. All sales final. As many as 10 tickets may be available at the door for all of our StorySLAMs on a first-come, first-served basis.
Marble Bar is 18+ unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Ann Delisi's Essential Cooking: BARDA
2023-11-14 17:00 - 21:30 | BARDA, 4842 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI, 48208, United States
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For our next Essential Cooking Dinner, Ann Delisi is heading to BARDA, where Chef Javier Bardauil will prepare a five course meal for two seatings of guests on Tuesday, November 14, 2023. Plus, DJ sets from host of WDET’s Soul Saturday, Nick Austin!
BARDA Detroit is the first and only authentic Argentinian and Latin American-inspired Restaurant in Detroit. Using ancestral methods of Patagonian cooking, BARDA’s open fire is the very soul of the restaurant’s dining experience. BARDA specializes in simple yet bold dishes, combining techniques that reach far across vast geographical terrains. In November of last year, Ann Delisi and Chef James Rigato Spoke with Chef Javier about his life, restaurant, and journey from the Argentinian to the Detroit Culinary scene on the Essential Cooking Podcast.
Tickets are $150 and will directly support WDET and the BARDA Staff.
Two seatings available: 5PM and 7:30PM. Please choose carefully when purchasing your tickets and be sure you are selecting your preferred seating.
There will be no substitutions offered. If you have a dietary restriction or serious food allergy, please contact BARDA directly to confirm accommodation.
If you’d like to be seated with a separate ticket holder, please email Nicole Amine: nicole.amine@wdet.org.
MENU:
1st Course
Glazed Beets, Ajoblanco, Raspberry
2nd Course
Charred Caesar, Gem Lettuce, Parmesan, Breadcrumbs, Anchovy
3rd Course
Roasted Cauliflower, Cauliflower Bagna Cauda, Breadcrumbs
4th Course
Bife, Strip Loin Steak, Chimichurri
5th Course
Flan, Dulce de Leche, Whipped Cream

Colors of Detroit: A Benefit for WDET & Concert of Colors
2023-12-01 18:30 - 23:00 | The Motown Mansion, 918 W Boston Blvd, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States
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Join us on December 1, for the first ever COLORS OF DETROIT, a celebration of the rich diversity and multiculturalism of Detroit to benefit WDET, Detroit Non-Profit Public Radio and Concert of Colors.
Colors of Detroit will be held at the Motown Mansion in the Historic Boston-Edison neighborhood – former home of Motown Records founder Berry Gordy, now owned by renowned arts consultant Alan Brown. This event will feature an on-site broadcast of The Don Was Motor City Playlist with WDET’s Ann Delisi, a live performance by Bomba group Rican Struction, DJ sets by WDET music hosts Ismael Ahmed and Nick Austin, a silent auction, and strolling heavy appetizers by some of Detroit’s most celebrated Chefs:

Mamba Hamissi (Baobab Fare)
Amado Lopez (Casa Amado)
Max Hardy (Coop Detroit)
James Rigato (Mabel Gray)
Warda Bouguettaya (Warda Patisserie)

Concert of Colors is Detroit’s only free annual diversity-themed music festival featuring global music at its finest. Over its rich 31-year history, the festival has blossomed into a celebrated, beloved highlight of metro Detroit’s summer festival season- one of the few remaining large scale, free-admission music festivals in the area. WDET (101.9FM) is Detroit’s listener-supported public radio station, dedicated to providing the community with accurate news and diverse cultural and music programming. WDET is housed on the campus of Wayne State University in the heart of the Cass Corridor.
Additional event information below.
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Doors open at 6:30PM.
Tickets are $275 + EventBrite’s Fees and will directly support WDET and Concert of Colors.
Due to the nature of this event, we are unable to accommodate dietary restrictions.
The Motown Mansion is located at 918 W Boston Blvd in the Boston Edison Neighborhood. Valet and street parking will be available.
What to wear: Celebrate Detroit’s diversity by wearing colorful and creative attire!
Please note that the venue will contain stairs between rooms. This is a private residence; there will be no elevator on site.
Open bar available, cash tips for staff encouraged.
The Don Was Motor City Playlist broadcast will begin promptly at 8PM and end at 10PM. Additional entertainment will be enjoyed throughout the mansion.
The event will conclude at 11PM. We ask that you please respect the neighborhood residents upon arrival and departure.
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COLORS OF DETROIT is supported by:

ARN & NANCY TELLEM + THE DETROIT PISTONS
JENNIFER & DAN GILBERT
TOM GORES
GRETCHEN GONZALES DAVIDSON
CINDY NICHOLSON
THIRD MAN RECORDS
DOEREN MAYHEW
MARX LAYNE
COREY HARRIS
CRAIN HOMES
UNITED JEWISH FOUNDATION
ACCESS
COMCAST
THE CHARLES H. WRIGHT MUSEUM
DON MANVEL
AHMAD CHEBBANI
CHRISTINE & DAVID COLMAN
THOMAS SEBOLD & ASSOCIATES
COUP D’ETAT
HOLLY & MATT ROSSETTI
DAMIEN CRUTCHER
NJIA KAI
CBI INTERIORS
MARY ZATINA & KEVIN PRIHOD
KEN & PENNY FISCHER
MARIAM NOLAND & JIM KELLY

WDET Noel Night Open House
2023-12-02 17:00 - 22:00 | WDET, 4600 Cass Ave, Detroit, 48201, United States
Visit WDET’s studio on Saturday, Dec. 2 for a celebration of the holiday season as the Cultural Center of Detroit comes alive with over 100 participating venues.

Tour the station to see where the news, music and conversation is made
Meet some of your favorite WDET hosts
Grab some refreshments
Shop vintage WDET merch at discounted prices — perfect for holiday gifts!

WDET is located at 4600 Cass Avenue, on the first floor of Wayne State’s University Towers building and will be open from 5PM – 10PM.

The Moth StorySLAM — Home
2023-12-07 18:30 - 21:30 | Marble Bar, 1501 Holden Street, Detroit, MI, 48208, United States
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The Moth StorySLAM is an open-mic storytelling competition in which anyone can share a true, personal, 5-minute story on the night’s theme. Sign up for a chance to tell a story or sit back and enjoy the show!
This month’s theme is “home.” Prepare a five-minute story about where the heart is. Where you’re from, your humble abode, your roots, your heritage or where your mama lives. Your comfort, refuge or domestic bliss. Or perhaps a dysfunctional swamp with no lifeboat in sight. Your zip code, your people, your culture, your pajamas. There’s no place like it.
Doors open: 6:30 p.m.
Show starts: 7:30 p.m.
Tickets for Detroit’s StorySLAMs go on sale three weeks prior to the show date at 3 p.m. ET.
Seating is not guaranteed and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please be sure to arrive at least 10 minutes before the show. Admission is not guaranteed for late arrivals. All sales final. As many as 10 tickets may be available at the door for all of our StorySLAMs on a first-come, first-served basis.
Marble Bar is 18+ unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Detroit GrandSlam: Fight or Flight 2023
2023-12-20 20:00 - 22:30 | The Senate Theatre, 6424 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI, 48210, United States
Mark your calendar for the 2023 MOTH Detroit Grand SLAM. Winners from this year’s StorySLAM series will compete at the Senate Theater in Detroit on December 20, and only ONE will take the title of “Detroit’s GrandSLAM Story Champion.” On this night, listen as ten open mic storytellers share unique, unexpected, and magical true stories.
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The Moth StorySLAM — First Impressions
2024-01-04 18:30 - 21:30 | Marble Bar, 1501 Holden Street, Detroit, MI, 48208, United States
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The Moth StorySLAM is an open-mic storytelling competition in which anyone can share a true, personal, 5-minute story on the night’s theme. Sign up for a chance to tell a story or sit back and enjoy the show!
This month’s theme is “first impressions.” Prepare a five-minute story about initial encounters. Blind dates, fixer-uppers, catfish and long-lost twins. When your gut instincts were proven right, or when you unfairly judged a book by its cover. Day one at a new job, new school, or new city. The stinky cheese that was actually scrumptious. The singer with the gravelly voice that you grow to love. The indelible mark made upon meeting somebody for the first time.
Doors open: 6:30 p.m.
Show starts: 7:30 p.m.
Tickets for Detroit’s StorySLAMs go on sale three weeks prior to the show date at 3 p.m. ET.
Seating is not guaranteed and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please be sure to arrive at least 10 minutes before the show. Admission is not guaranteed for late arrivals. All sales final. As many as 10 tickets may be available at the door for all of our StorySLAMs on a first-come, first-served basis.
Marble Bar is 18+ unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Ann Delisi's Essential Conversations: Motown Trombonist & Arranger Paul Riser Sr.
2024-01-17 19:30 - 21:30 | Willis Show Bar, 4156 3rd Ave, Detroit, MI, 48201, United States
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Join us for Ann Delisi’s next Essential Conversation with legendary Motown arranger and trombonist, Paul Riser on Wednesday, January 17th at the Willis Show Bar. They’ll talk about his life, musical influences, and share stories about working on dozens of Motown hits during the label’s prime. During which, he arranged recordings such as, “My Girl,” “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” and “I Heard it Through the Grapevine” among many others. We’ll hear samples of those recordings and take your audience questions in Willis Show Bar’s beautifully intimate setting. It’s an honor to have Paul as a guest in this space, and we hope you’ll join us to hear about his incredible musical journey within and outside of Motown.
Tickets for this event are $100 and will directly benefit WDET and Willis Show Bar.
To listen to previous episodes of the podcast, click here.
P lease note that Willis Show Bar is a 21+ venue

WDET Travel: Alpine Lakes & Scenic Trains Preview
2024-01-29 19:00 - 20:00 | MI
The WDET Travel tour heads to Switzerland and Italy for an incredible 11-day experience Oct. 3-13, 2024.

Cruise through Lago Maggiore and visit one of the beautiful Borromean Islands.
Stroll the lakeside boulevards of St. Moritz.
Journey through the Bernina Pass on one of the world’s most scenic railways.

Learn more at our virtual meeting on Monday, Jan. 29, starting at 7 p.m. ET.
RSVP »

The Moth StorySLAM — Love Hurts
2024-02-01 18:30 - 21:30 | Marble Bar, 1501 Holden Street, Detroit, MI, 48208, United States
The Moth StorySLAM is an open-mic storytelling competition in which anyone can share a true, personal, 5-minute story on the night’s theme. Sign up for a chance to tell a story or sit back and enjoy the show! Tonight’s theme is…
This month’s theme is “love hurts.” Prepare a five-minute story about a love that made you go “OUCH.” The agony of deferred love, the misery of good love gone bad or the anguish of one-way love. Bring stories of your heart, kicked to the curb by the people or places or things you love… or used to love. Love that “hurts so good” is also welcome.
Doors Open: 6:30 p.m.
Show Starts: 7:30 p.m.
Tickets for Detroit’s StorySLAMs go on sale 3 weeks prior to the show date at 3 p.m. ET.
Seating is not guaranteed and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please be sure to arrive at least 10 minutes before the show. Admission is not guaranteed for late arrivals. All sales final. As many as 10 tickets may be available at the door for all of our StorySLAMs on a first-come, first-served basis.
Marble Bar is 18+ unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.

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Smart Politics: An Election Discussion Hosted By WDET News Director Jerome Vaughn
2024-02-19 19:00 - 20:30 | HopCat Detroit, 4265 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI, 48201, United States
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Join WDET News Director Jerome Vaughn and a panel of Michigan journalists for the first installment of Smart Politics, hosted at HopCat Detroit on President’s Day – Monday, February 19! We will discuss Michigan’s effects on the 2024 presidential election and take audience questions with our panelists:

Clara Hendrickson, Reporter, Detroit Free Press
Craig Mauger, State Politics Reporter, The Detroit News
Colin Jackson, Reporter, Michigan Public Radio Network

Food & drinks will be available for purchase, and we highly encourage enjoying dinner during our programming! To view the HopCat Detroit dinner menu, click here.
Seating will be on a first come first serve basis. If you have a group of 5 or larger and you’d like to request a table together, please contact Nicole Amine: nicole.amine@wdet.org.
The views and opinions of each panelist are their own and do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of WDET or Wayne State University.
We ask that you please respect our panelists, host, and the other attendees. Anyone displaying disruptive or disrespectful behavior may be asked to leave.
If you plan to purchase or consume alcohol, please bring a valid government issued ID.
HopCat is wheelchair accessible.

Ann Delisi's Essential Cooking: Basan
2024-03-06 17:30 - 22:00 | Basan, 2703 Park Ave, Detroit, MI, 48201, United States
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Join us for the next installment of Ann Delisi’s Essential Cooking at Basan for two seatings on March 6: 5:30PM and 8:00PM. Chef Eric Lees will showcase his style with a five course meal with a special wine pairing for guests to enjoy.
Basan opened in 2022 and is the latest endeavor of Detroit Hospitality Group Four Man Ladder (Grey Ghost, Second Best). Tucked neatly into the ground floor of the historic Eddystone and a mere stone’s throw from Little Caesar’s Arena, Basan is a marriage of distinctive food and inimitable beverage with a lifestyle of hospitality.
The name is derived from a mythological fire breathing rooster, an allusion to fare cooked over the fiery breath of the robata grill in the heart of their kitchen. The Basan staff has graciously opened their doors to WDET listeners and we couldn’t be more excited!
Due to the nature of this event, there will be no menu substitutions. If you have a severe food allergy, please contact Basan directly.
Seats will be assigned to maximize space due to limited availability. If you’d like to be seated with a separate ticket buyer, please contact Nicole Amine: nicole.amine@wdet.org.
There are two seatings for this event: 5:30PM and 8:00PM. Please select the ticket that corresponds to your desired seating when checking out.
Tickets are $200 and directly support WDET and Basan.
Basan is wheelchair accessible.
Basan’s main entrance faces Little Caesars Arena on Sproat Street, immediately west of Park Ave. Prepaid parking is available for $10 at 2756 Cass Ave. using this link.
Street parking is available on the surrounding streets or on Park Avenue using the spaces provided. Please plan for increased street traffic on game or concert nights.
In addition to street parking, more parking options are available at ParkWhiz.

The Moth StorySLAM — Dazzled
2024-03-07 18:30 - 21:30 | Marble Bar, 1501 Holden Street, Detroit, MI, 48208, United States
The Moth StorySLAM is an open-mic storytelling competition in which anyone can share a true, personal, 5-minute story on the night’s theme. Sign up for a chance to tell a story or sit back and enjoy the show!
This month’s theme is “dazzled.” Prepare a five-minute story about a time you sparkled. Dripping in diamonds down the red carpet, smooth cruising in a Corvette or cosplaying at Marilyn Monroe. Share your shiniest knock-out memories that no one believes, or the moments that prove that all that glitters is gold.
Doors Open: 6:30 p.m.
Show Starts: 7:30 p.m.
Tickets for Detroit’s StorySLAMs go on sale 3 weeks prior to the show date at 3 p.m. ET.
Seating is not guaranteed and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please be sure to arrive at least 10 minutes before the show. Admission is not guaranteed for late arrivals. All sales final. As many as 10 tickets may be available at the door for all of our StorySLAMs on a first-come, first-served basis.
Marble Bar is 18+ unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.

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WDET Spring Fundraiser 2024
2024-03-14 14:00 - 2024-03-24 15:00 | MI
Detroit Public Radio 101.9 WDET presents the 2024 Spring Fundraiser March 15-24!
WDET is celebrating 75 years of people-powered radio in metro Detroit. Become a member and invest in WDET’s next chapter of news, music and conversation.
Listeners who donate during the 2024 Spring Fundraiser have a chance to be entered in drawings for a chance to win unique prizes and experiences, including:

WDET Golden Ticket valid for select events at the Majestic Complex in Detroit over the next year
Passes to Movement 2024
Vinyl records bundle handpicked by Modern Music host Jon Moshier courtesy of Found Sound in Ferndale, Mich.
Pair of tickets to three select concerts at Pine Knob
Premier Pet Supply gift cards and more

Donate now »
Thank you to our sponsors!

Shades of Ireland WDET Trip
2024-04-08 - 2024-04-20 | MI
Ready to travel? Book your space now for the April 2024 Shades of Ireland tour featuring Northern Ireland! The thirteen-day excursion includes round-trip airfare and deluxe accommodations.
In Dublin, you can visit Saint Patrick’s Cathedral or tour the Guinness Storehouse. The trip features lively pubs, green landscapes and such iconic sights as the Cliffs of Moher and the magnificent Giant’s Causeway as we make our way to Belfast to experience the Titanic Museum. Look at the itinerary for Shades of Ireland featuring Northern Ireland at wdet.org/ireland!

Book Your Trip

WDET Presents: Paula Poundstone at the Flagstar Strand Theatre
2024-04-13 20:00 - 22:00 | Flagstar Strand Theatre, 12 N Saginaw St., Pontiac, MI, 48342, United States
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Iconic comedian Paula Poundstone is known for her smart, observational humor and a spontaneous wit that has become the stuff of legend. She regularly plays theaters across the country, hosts a weekly comedy podcast, Nobody Listens to Paula Poundstone, and is a regular panelist on NPR’s Wait, Wait… Don’t Tell Me.
Paula has starred in several HBO specials, including Cats, Cops and Stuff, which nabbed a cable ACE award for Best Comedy Special. She was the first female comic to host the White House Correspondents Dinner. She filed live coverage of the 1992 Democratic and Republican National Conventions and the Presidential Inaugural for The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and at the 93rd Emmy Awards. Paula has starred in two television series, both entitled The Paula Poundstone Show. Paula’s second book, The Totally Unscientific Study of the Search for Human Happiness, was one of eight semi-finalists for the Thurber Prize For American Humor; the audiobook was one of five finalists for the AUDIE award for Audiobook of the Year. Paula has released five albums and is featured in several documentaries and compendiums noting influential comedians of our time.
Join us at the Flagstar Strand Theatre on Saturday, April 13th for an unforgettable night of laughter and wit.

WDET Live In-Store Broadcast at Born in Detroit
2024-04-18 11:00 - 15:00 | Born in Detroit, 1275 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI, United States
Join us live in person or on air for one of WDET’s first remote broadcasts of 2024 on Thursday, April 18, 2024. The Metro hosted by Tia Graham and Nick Austin and In The Groove hosted by Ryan Patrick Hooper will brought to listeners live from the Born in Detroit pop-up shop at 1275 Woodward Ave.
Born in Detroit opened in the former MooseJaw location in mid-March and will stay open through the end of April – an activation ahead of the city’s welcoming of the 2024 NFL Draft on April 25-27.
Guests are invited to shop the exclusive merchandise while enjoying WDET’s programming from 11AM to 3PM:

The Metro hosted by Tia Graham and Nick Austin – 11AM – Noon
In The Groove hosted by Ryan Patrick Hooper – Noon – 3PM

Listen to the broadcasts of these shows live via the mobile app, 101.9FM, or on this website!

WDET Travels: Morocco Virtual Q&A
2024-04-30 19:00 - 20:00 | MI
WDET Travels is offering a breathtaking experience for travelers in 2025: a 15-day trip to Morocco!
Colors of Morocco trip highlights include:

Stroll through the cobbled alleyways of ancient markets and medinas.
Experience the desert by 4×4 and during your two-night camp stay.
Visit a nomad family and learn about their ancient traditions.

Join our no-commitment virtual meeting to learn more about the Colors of Morocco trip on April 30, 2024, at 7 p.m. ET.
Register »

God Said Give 'Em Drum Machines - Immersive Screening at Marble Bar
2024-05-22 18:30 - 2024-05-23 00:00 | Marble Bar, 1501 Holden Street, Detroit, MI, 48208, United States
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Washington Hill Pictures, Marble Bar, and WDET are joining forces to host the first-ever nightclub screening of Detroit Techno documentary God Said Give ‘Em Drum Machines: The Director’s Cut to kick off Detroit’s Techno Week festivities.
Doors open at 6:30pm for a cocktail hour with Donna Gardner. The film screening is from 7:30-9pm, followed by the first b2b performance between two Detroit dance music legends, Eddie Fowlkes and Stacey “Hotwaxx” Hale.
All proceeds from the event will be donated to 101.9 WDET Detroit Public Radio. In God Said Give ‘Em Drum Machines, Director Kristian R. Hill and Executive Producer Jennifer Washington shine a light on the true Black origin story of Techno music in Detroit, and we are very excited to share this inspiring, immersive experience with Detroit techno fans from near and far.
**This event is ALL AGES, and capacity is LIMITED**

WDET Presents: Don Was & The Pan Detroit Ensemble at the DSO
2024-05-24 20:00 - 22:00 | Orchestra Hall @ The DSO, 3711 Woodward Ave, Detroit, 48201, United States
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Music has always loomed large in the life of DON WAS. Legendary producer and Detroit native, Don Was brings his rich musical legacy to life with a band of exceptional jazz talents from his hometown. Experience the essence of Detroit— with its unmistakable and underlying groove—through Don Was and The Pan-Detroit Ensemble.

The band includes long-time collaborators like Blue Note Records artist Dave McMurray on sax and Eminem’s Oscar-winning collaborator, keyboardist Luis Resto. Additional musicians include trombonist Vincent Chandler, trumpeter John Douglas, drummer Jeff Canady, percussionist Mahindi, guitarist Wayne Gerard and vocalist Steffanie Christi’an.
Don Was co-hosts The Don Was Motor City Playlist with Ann Delisi Fridays at 8:00PM on WDET. You can listen to recent episodes here.

Movement 2024
2024-05-25 - 2024-05-27 | Hart Plaza, 1 Hart Plaza, Detroit, 48226, United States
WDET is partnering with Paxahau as an official media partner for the Movement electronic music festival this Memorial Day weekend, May 25-27. Tune in starting May 20 to experience special programming celebrating Detroit’s musical legacy.
Donate to WDET to enter our Movement ticket drawing
Listen to WDET’ starting on Saturday, May 18, and donate during the following shows to enter our drawings to win weekend Movement passes:

Ann Delisi’s Essential Music | Saturday, May 18, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. ET
The New Music Show with Shigeto | Saturday, May 18, 8-10 p.m. ET
The Boulevard with Waajeed | Wednesday, May 22, 8-10 p.m. ET
In the Groove with Ryan Patrick Hooper | Thursday, May 23, noon-3 p.m. ET
Alternate Take with Liz Warner | Thursday, May 23, 8-10 p.m. ET

In the Groove, May 20-24
Join Ryan Patrick Hooper on In The Groove from 2-3 p.m. ET for live DJ mixes and interviews with artists performing at this year’s festival, including DJ Godfather, DJ Etta and more.

Alternate Take, May 23 and 25
Liz Warner hosts a 4-hour Movement edition of Alternate Take on Thursday, May 23, from 8 p.m. to midnight that features the return of focus:electronic. Liz will be joined by focus:electronic co-host Clark Warner as they highlight unforgettable festival moments from past years. They’ll also preview artists from this year’s Movement.
Then on May 25, Liz will broadcast from the WDET studios for a live Saturday edition of Alternate Take from 10 p.m. to midnight! It’s part Movement Festival celebration, part Saturday night party to keep the flow moving between The New Music Show with Shigeto and Movement Rewind during WDET After Hours.
Movement Rewind, May 25-27
Don’t miss Movement Rewind, WDET’s overnight programming from midnight – 5 a.m. ET during Memorial Day weekend — featuring highlights from the 2022 and 2023 editions of Movement. Performances include Deon Jamar, Meftah, Ash Lauryn, Beige, Eddie Fowlkes and more. Check out the schedule below.

In the Groove, Memorial Day (May 27)
Ryan Patrick Hooper presents an encore presentation of the In the Groove Movement DJ performances into one mega mix on Memorial Day from noon – 3 p.m. ET!
WDET is excited to showcase Detroit’s music and its global impact on electronic music. Bookmark this page to stay connected for more Movement coverage and announcements.
Movement single-day and weekend passes are on sale now at movementfestival.com.
Tickets »

Mackinac Policy Conference 2024
2024-05-29 09:00 - 2024-05-30 18:00 | Grand Hotel, 286 Grand Avenue, Mackinac Island, MI, 49757, United States
Mackinac Policy Conference 2024

Detroit Public Radio 101.9 WDET is bringing the 2024 Mackinac Policy Conference to you.
The annual Mackinac Policy Conference brings together influential politicians, captains of industry and thought leaders as they shape the future of the state. WDET will broadcast special coverage from Mackinac Island this week with interviews and news stories that connect you to the ideas and agendas impacting metro Detroit.
Special coverage begins with All Things Considered starting at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, May 28, and runs through Thursday, May 30.
Wednesday, May 29
9-10 a.m.
WDET’s Mackinac Policy Conference coverage continues on Wednesday as Created Equal host Stephen Henderson interviews Michigan U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters.
11 a.m. – noon
The Metro co-host Nick Austin will be joined by MichMash host Cheyna Roth as they discuss the agendas for the conference. They’ll also talk to Hilary Doe of the Michigan Department of Economic Corporation.
4-6 p.m.
Russ McNamara hosts All Things Considered live from the Mackinac Policy Conference.
Thursday, May 30
9-10 a.m.
Stephen Henderson begins the day’s live coverage with conversations with U.S. Congresswoman and U.S. Senate candidate Elissa Slotkin, U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee and more.
11 a.m. – noon
Nick Austin talks to Tammy Carnrike, COO of Detroit Regional Chamber — who organizes the Mackinac Policy Conference. Detroit Public Schools Community District Superintendent Dr. Nikolai Vitti also joins the show.
4-6 p.m.
Russ McNamara hosts All Things Considered live from the Mackinac Policy Conference.
Mackinac Policy Conference 2024 Coverage
Supported by:

Ann Delisi's Essential Cooking: Oak & Reel
2024-05-29 19:00 - 21:00 | Oak & Reel, 2921 E Grand Blvd., Detroit, 48202, United States
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Join us for the next installment of Ann Delisi’s Essential Cooking at Oak & Reel on Wednesday, May 29th at 7PM. Chef and Owner Jared Gadbaw will prepare a 5-course meal with a special wine pairing for guests to enjoy. Plus, Nick Austin (The Metro, former host of Soul Saturday) will be spinning the tunes!
Despite major challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Chef/Owner Jared Gadbaw and his wife Abby opened Oak & Reel in September 2020, bringing fresh, seafood-focused Italian fare to East Grand Blvd and the Milwaukee Junction neighborhood. HOUR Detroit named it Restaurant of the Year in 2022, and on May 29th, Chef Jared and team will generously open their doors to WDET listeners for a private showcase of their culinary skills and hospitality.
In November 2023, Chef Jared sat down with WDET’s Ann Delisi and Essential Cooking co-host Chef James Rigato for a conversation delving into the chapters of his culinary expedition, his knowledge of the New York and Detroit food scenes, and testing the boundaries of the Midwestern palate. You can listen to that episode of Ann Delisi’s Essential Cooking here.
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Due to the nature of this event, there will be no menu substitutions. If you have a severe food allergy that needs accommodating, please contact Oak & Reel directly.
Seats will be assigned to maximize space due to limited availability. If you’d like to be seated with a separate ticket buyer, please contact Nicole Amine: nicole.amine@wdet.org.
There is one seating for this event: 7:00PM. Doors will open at 6:30PM.
Tickets are $200 and directly support WDET and Oak & Reel.
Oak & Reel is wheelchair accessible.
Oak & Reel has a designated, free parking lot on the east side of the building. There is also additional street parking on East Grand Blvd.

WDET Comedy Showcase: What's So Funny About Detroit? - MAY
2024-05-30 18:30 - 21:30 | Old Miami, 3930 Cass Ave., Detroit, MI, United States
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The WDET comedy showcase What’s So Funny About Detroit? is back!
What’s So Funny? brings a new set of six of the city’s funniest stand-up comedians to the stage on Thursday, May 30 to the iconic Old Miami bar & backyard in the Cass Corridor / Midtown neighborhood of Detroit.
WDET’s Ryan Patrick Hooper (host of In The Groove, weekdays 12-3p) will serve as your host and curator of comedy for the evening as he ) will serve as your host and curator of comedy for the evening as he introduces you to …. BRETT MERCER, BRAD WENZEL, ESTEBAN TOUMA, TAM WHITE, PAT SIEVERT, and headliner T. BARB!
This event is a benefit for 101.9 WDET-FM Detroit Public Radio. The cost of your tickets directly support WDET and will also go towards compensating the comedians, who are critical members of the city’s independent comedy scene and larger performing arts community.
This event will be held in the gorgeous backyard of the Old Miami. Please dress appropriately for the weather. In the event of rain or severe weather, this event will be canceled and your tickets will be refunded. No pets are allowed.
Tickets are $25 per person. Tickets can be purchased in advance online right here. Walk-up ticket sales at the venue are available *if the event is not sold out*
Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Show starts promptly at 7:30 p.m. The show will be approximately two hours long.
This show will be recorded live for a later airing on 101.9 WDET-FM Detroit Public Radio.
This event is BRING YOUR OWN CHAIR and/or BLANKET. Think of it as a comedy picnic. A food truck will be on site selling food (Mizz Ruth’s Grill). Outside food and drink is not permitted.
This is an uncensored comedy event. The opinions and jokes of the comedians are completely their own and are not a reflection on WDET’s editorial standards.
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What’s So Funny About Detroit? is supported by The Finnish Long Drink.

WDET Travels: Alaska Virtual Q&A
2024-06-13 18:00 - 19:00 | MI
Register now for WDET’s no-obligation travel preview for the August 2025 WDET Travels trip to Alaska.
During the eleven-day experience, you’ll see Alaska from a Holland America Cruise ship on a breathtaking journey from Alaska to Vancouver. Plus, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable rail journey from Denali to Talkeetna in a domed railcar.
Learn about the entire itinerary during our virtual travel preview and Q&A on June 13.
Register »

WDET Comedy Showcase: What's So Funny About Detroit? - JUNE
2024-06-27 19:00 - 21:00 | Old Miami, 3930 Cass Ave., Detroit, MI, United States
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*****UPDATE AS OF JUNE 2024! DOORS OPEN AT 6:00PM, SHOW IS AT 7:00PM!*******
The WDET comedy showcase What’s So Funny About Detroit? is back!
The What’s So Funny? showcase brings a new set of six of the city’s funniest stand-up comedians to the stage on Thursday, June 27 to the iconic Old Miami bar & backyard in the Cass Corridor / Midtown neighborhood of Detroit.
WDET’s Ryan Patrick Hooper (host of In The Groove) will serve as your host and curator of comedy for the evening as he introduces you to ……. Nicole Melnyk, Diana Graham, Blain Hill, Alex Bozinovic, Brianna Blackburn, and headliner Ahmed Bharoocha!
This event is a benefit for Detroit Public Radio 101.9 WDET. The cost of your tickets directly support WDET and will also go towards compensating the comedians, who are critical members of the city’s independent comedy scene and larger performing arts community.
Tickets are $25 per person. Tickets can be purchased in advance online right here. Walk-up ticket sales at the venue are available *if the event is not sold out*
This event is BRING YOUR OWN CHAIR and/or BLANKET. Think of it as a comedy picnic. A food truck will be on site selling food (Mizz Ruth’s Grill).
This show will be recorded live for a later airing on 101.9 WDET-FM Detroit Public Radio.
This event will be held in the gorgeous backyard of the Old Miami. Please dress appropriately for the weather. In the event of rain or severe weather, this event will be canceled and your tickets will be refunded.
The show is intended for a mature audience and may include coarse language and subject matter. The opinions and jokes of the comedians are completely their own and are not a reflection on WDET’s editorial standards.
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What’s So Funny About Detroit? is supported by The Finnish Long Drink.

Smart Politics: An Election Discussion Hosted By WDET News Director Jerome Vaughn
2024-07-10 19:00 - 20:30 | The Rind, 3125 Twelve Mile Road, Berkley, 48072, United States
Tickets »
Join WDET News Director Jerome Vaughn and a panel of Michigan journalists for the second installment of Smart Politics, hosted at The Rind (attached to Mongers’ Provisions) on Wednesday, July 10! We will discuss Michigan’s effects on the 2024 presidential election and take audience questions with our panelists:

Michael Siegrist, Canton Township Clerk
Matt Friedman, Founding Partner – Tanner Friedman
Erica Peresman, Voting Rights Advocate

Food & drinks will be available for purchase, and we highly encourage enjoying dinner during our programming! To view The Rind’s menu, click here.
Seating will be on a first come first serve basis. If you have a group of 5 or larger and you’d like to request a table together, please contact Nicole Amine: nicole.amine@wdet.org.
A $5 reservation fee will be required to secure your spot. Buy tickets HERE.
The views and opinions of each panelist are their own and do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of WDET or Wayne State University.
We ask that you please respect our panelists, host, and the other attendees. Anyone displaying disruptive or disrespectful behavior may be asked to leave.
If you plan to purchase or consume alcohol, please bring a valid government issued ID.
Parking is available in the lot behind the restaurant or along Twelve Mile Road.
The Rind is wheelchair accessible.
Supported by:

33rd Annual Concert of Colors
2024-07-16 - 2024-07-21 | MI
The Concert of Colors is Metro Detroit’s free annual diversity-themed music festival. Global music at its finest at this colorful, festive, upbeat coveted summer event. Housed in Culture Source a coalition of 152 arts organizations in Southeast Michigan, the Concert of Colors has become the Midwest’s biggest diversity and arts festival.
The goal of the week-long festival is to unite metro Detroit’s diverse communities and ethnic groups through music and dance from around the world – and create dialogue where participants embrace freedom of expression.
Over its rich 33-year history, the festival has blossomed into a celebrated, beloved highlight of metro Detroit’s summer festival season- one of the few remaining large scale, free-admission music festivals in the area.
The Concert of Colors was established by Ismael Ahmed (host of This Island Earth) – the former head of the human services organization ACCESS – and New Detroit in 1993 as a one-day event at Chene Park on Detroit’s riverfront. The inaugural event drew a modest crowd to Chene Park, but by 1999, some 10,000 music lovers were coming out each year. The festival expanded to three days in 2001, when it was part of the official festivities for Detroit’s 300th birthday, drawing an audience of 100,000. In 2019, the concert expanded to nine days.

In addition to music, the Concert of Colors also offers global food and merchandise vendors, movies, poetry, children’s activities and much more.

The Concert of Colors is supported by WDET. Check out some of our highlights below or click here for the full 2024 lineup:

MC5 MUSICAL TRIBUTE on Friday, July 19, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Detroit Historical Museum. Hosted by Ann Delisi with Peter Werbe, Leni Sinclair, Don Was and Tino Gross and Band
DON WAS DETROIT ALL STAR REVUE: PEACE, LOVE AND UNDERSTANDING on Sunday, July 21 8:00-9:30 p.m. at Detroit Institute of Arts – DFT. Featuring Don Was, Marshall Crenshaw, Steffanie Chris’ tian, Milton Bennet, Herschel Boone, Carolyn Striho, Corktown Popes, Gretchen Gonzalez Davidson, Julie Benjamin, Kara Meister, MIKE

*Plus, the WDET Street Team will be on the DIA South lawn on July 20 -21. Say hello to enter to win tickets to a future comedy show!

Click here for more information about the 2024 Concert of Colors and schedule.

Don Was Motor City Playlist 3-Year Anniversary Bowling Party
2024-07-22 17:00 - 21:00 | The Garden Bowl, 4140 Woodward Ave, Detroit
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Join WDET along with hosts of the Motor City Playlist, Ann Delisi and Don Was on July 22 at the Garden Bowl to celebrate the show’s 3 year anniversary! This event will feature music, food, and bowling and has three ticketing tiers:

Your $50 ticket purchase includes an hour of bowling, bowling shoes and a ball, and pizza courtesy of Sgt. Pepperoni’s.
*****SOLD OUT***** For the purchase of a $250 VIP ticket, you’ll receive the above, plus an event-exclusive bowling shirt and the chance to bowl on either TEAM ANN or TEAM DON! VIP tickets are extremely limited and will be available on a first come first serve basis. *****SOLD OUT*****
If you’d like to enjoy the festivities, but would prefer not to bowl, you’re also welcome to purchase a spectator ticket for $25, which will include pizza.

Buy Tickets »
Additional event information below:
Doors for this event open at 5 p.m.. When you arrive, please check in at the front desk to receive your lane assignment and any additional information.
There are three general admission bowling times you are able to sign up for. Please note your bowling time on your ticket purchase when checking out and please respect the reservation times of your fellow bowlers.
A cash bar will be available for all attendees.
Lanes will be assigned based on the time frame you sign up for. If you’d like to bowl on the same lane as another ticket purchaser, please email Nicole Amine at nicole.amine@wdet.org. Please note there are six spaces per lane and we will be assigning parties to lanes to fully maximize available tickets.
Pizza will be served courtesy of Sgt. Pepperoni’s. Vegetarian options will be available. Due to the nature of this event, we are unable to guarantee the accommodation of all dietary restrictions. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Street parking is recommended.
If you have any additional questions, please email Nicole Amine at nicole.amine@wdet.org.
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On The Don Was Motor City Playlist, Blue Note Records President and music industry powerhouse Don Was pays homage to the Motor City and the artists that inspire him.
Each week, Was digs deep into his music archives to curate playlists and share personal stories about the artists whose songs he features. Co-hosted by WDET’s Ann Delisi, listeners hear commentary about Detroit and its rich musical and cultural histories.
This year, the show celebrates its third year on Detroit’s airwaves and we hope you’ll join us to celebrate!

THE DON WAS MOTOR CITY PLAYLIST 3 YEAR ANNIVERSARY PARTY IS SUPPORTED BY FENDER, KLIPSCH AND E-L-S STUDIO 3D

Cassandra Wilson: A Tribute to Ed Love with Ralphe Armstrong
2024-07-24 19:30 - 22:30 | Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre, 2600 Atwater St, Detroit, MI, 48207, United States
Celebrating WDET’s own Ed Love, Cassandra Wilson and Ralphe Armstrong present a tribute at The Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre along the Detroit Riverfront. The Aretha is a majestic, 6,000-person waterfront venue, recognized as one of the top 100 concert venues in the world.
Longtime “Destination Jazz” host Ed Love.
Ed Love will be honored for his impact in the studio, as mentor and promoter of musicians far and wide, and his commitment as a cultural torchbearer and multigenerational voice for the tradition of jazz here in Detroit and throughout the world.
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