On this week’s episode of Acoustic Café, we’re joined by Michigan native Luke Winslow-King! Originally from Cadillac, MI, he’s lived in New Orleans, New York and elsewhere before moving to Spain in 2018. From there, he’s released his last few albums, including the new one called “Coast Of Light.”

Also this week, archives from Gregory Porter, Kashus Culpepper and two recent late great bluesmen, Joe Louis Walker and John Hammond.

See the playlist below and listen to the episodes on-demand for two weeks after it airs using the media player above.

Acoustic Café Playlist for March 22, 2026

• “Million Dollar Intro” – Ani DiFranco
• “Cats” – Mitski
• “Wait Up” – Iron & Wine ft. I’m With Her
• “Nothing I Could Hide” – Arlo Parks
• “Rita Ballou” – Margo Price
• “In God’s Hands” – Joe Louis Walker (Acoustic Cafe in-studio performance)
• “Sail Away” – Tyler Ramsey & Carl Broemel
• “Dangerous Blues” – Luke Winslow-King (Acoustic Cafe in-studio guest)
• “Coast Of Light” – Luke Winslow-King (Acoustic Cafe in-studio guest)
• “Shadow Of A Man” – Mumford & Sons
• “Friend Like You” – Mark Erelli
• “Don’t Be A Fool” – Gregory Porter (Acoustic Cafe in-studio performance)
• “Dead Man Walking” – Infamous Stringdusters
• “Feeling Fine” – Ocie Elliott
• “Only Women Bleed” – Tori Amos
• “Fade To Nothing” – Asgeir
• “Man Of His Word” – Kashus Culpepper (Acoustic Cafe in-studio performance)
• “Say Yes” – Beabadoobee
• “For The First Time Again” – Tyler Ballgame
• “BLKWMN” – Ledisi
• “Clap Hands” – John Hammond (Acoustic Cafe in-studio performance)
• “Traveling Myself” – Luke Winslow-King (Acoustic Cafe in-studio guest)
• “Black Eyed Gypsy” – Luke Winslow-King (Acoustic Cafe in-studio guest)

Listen to Rob Reinhart’s Essential Music every Saturday from 2-4 p.m. ET on Detroit Public Radio 101.9 WDET and streaming on-demand at wdet.org

This week on Rob Reinhart’s Essential Music brand new Detroit music from Ryan Allen, Nick Behnan and The Legal Matters.

Also a great cover from the “HELP (2)” compilation, new waterbaby and Tank & The Bangas, plus a never-before-heard Bill Withers song from Taj Mahal!

See the playlist below and listen to the episode for two weeks after it airs using the media player above.

Rob Reinhart’s Essential Music Playlist for March 21, 2026

HOUR ONE:

• “Good News” – ROZZI
• “All I Did Was Dream Of You” – beabadobee
• “Why Don’t You” – Squeeze
• “Pulling Mussels (From A Shell)” – Squeeze
• “When It’s Right, It’s Right” – Nick Behnan
  
• “I Feel For You” – Chaka Khan
• “2Sided” – Arlo Parks
• “Stones” – Everlast
• “So This Is Heartache” – Teddy Thompson
• “Dry Spell” – Kacey Musgraves
• “Hold On” – Devon Gilfillian
  
• “Move” – Tank & The Bangas
• “Universal Soldier” – Depeche Mode
  

• “Beck N Call” – waterbaby
• “Riptides” – Death Cab For Cutie
• “After All This Time” – Joe Jackson
• “Another World” – Joe Jackson
• “Diamond In The Rough” – Laura Rain & The Caesars
• “It Don’t Mean Nothing” – Richard Marx
• “Somewhere Else” – TOMORA
• “The Valley” – Son Little
• “They’re Coming For Us” – Ryan Allen
• “Stuck With Me” – The Legal Matters
• “I Ain’t Sold On Time” Foy Vance
• “Time” – Taj Mahal
• “Moanin’ And Groanin'” – Bill Withers

Listen to Rob Reinhart’s Essential Music every Saturday from 2-4 p.m. ET on Detroit Public Radio 101.9 WDET and streaming on-demand at wdet.org

New York might be the city that never sleeps, but Detroit’s frequently mentioned among the most insomniatic cities in the nation. We’re here to make sure it stays that way with this week’s most tantalizing events. 

Upcoming events (March 19-26)

March du Nain Rouge 

Cass Corridor

March 22

Free

Embrace your wicked nature and dance for the Demon of the Strait this Sunday. The March du Nain Rouge has taken place in Detroit for well over a decade, but the story of this devlish figure has loomed over the city for more than 300 years.

I suppose it was about time that we showed him some love.

The parade features massive floats, costumed street performers, musicians and more. It’s a day where all glorious freaks, artists and partygoers show out for their supremely devilish leader in pursuit of a sinfully good time. The event begins at 11:30 a.m., with the opening ceremony starting at 1 p.m. 

Ann Arbor Film Festival 

Michigan Theatre

March 24-29

Free-$85

The Ann Arbor Film Festival is back for its 63rd year, showcasing filmmakers from around the globe. The festival highlights experimental, animation, documentary, fiction and performance-based works. It takes place over the course of six days and enlists a wide variety of programs, each of which has several competing films.

Tickets for each screening are $15, while the opening night party will run you $85. So, grab a drink, see a film and hit an afterparty with some newfound friends. Screenings start as early as 10:30 a.m., with some going until 2:30 a.m. 

Totally Rad Vintage Fest 

Huntington Place

March 21-22

$8 – $25

Step into the past at Huntington Place this weekend for a chance to score that perfectly weathered 70’s tassel jacket you’ve been eyeing, or perhaps even that pair of Heineken dunks you’ve been searching for since ’03. There’s a plethora of vendors selling everything from clothes to vinyl and video games this year; you won’t want to miss this.

And if you’re just getting dragged along by your eBay-loving bestie, don’t worry, there’s free-to-play arcade games and a retro museum for you to drift away to while they hunt for the perfect pair of jeans. The event begins at 5 p.m. on both days.  

The Rusty Snails  

The Blind Pig

March 21

$20

The Rusty Snails have been carving a name for themselves recently—perhaps you’ve seen their new song “Northern Man” floating around on Instagram. Regardless, I’m proud to announce they’re coming to Ann Arbor this Saturday as a part of The Blind Pig’s Americana and Country Music Showcase. The brother-sister folk duo from Detroit is playing alongside Jen Sygit and Jadyn Savage, making sure to infuse you with all the twang Michigan has to offer. The event starts at 6 p.m. 

St. Baddies Day 

Big Pink

March 21 

$23

St. Patrick’s Day may be over, but that doesn’t mean the festivities have to end. This year, we were robbed with a mid-week celebration— but there’s a way to be compensated for your loss. Trek over to the neon lights of the Eastside and get ready to dance like an Irishman as Munch and Blakito spin banger after banger. The event starts at 10 p.m. and goes until 2 a.m. 

Monster Jam 

Ford Field

March 21-22

$40+

It’d be easy to chop up Monster Jam to being just a children’s event, but let’s be honest, everyone wants to see a 6-ton truck dressed like a bull do a backflip. This time around, drivers are competing for the Stadium Championship Series East. 

Whether you’re there for family fun or 2000’s nostalgia, we won’t judge. For all you know, I’ll be there with a foam finger and a Grave Digger hat…not that I’m choosing sides or anything. Oh, and make sure to grab a Pit Party ticket to meet the drivers and check out the beasts up close. The event starts at 5 p.m. on Saturday and 3 p.m. on Sunday. 

Concert in Alkyone 

Detroit Institute of Arts Theatre

March 19

Free

Take a stroll over to the DIA for a modern Mediterranean experience as the Hellenic Museum of Michigan hosts a performance by Alkyone, a musician from Northern Greece who melds traditional Greek styles with the ethereal contemporary sounds of indiepop and folk. The event begins at 7 p.m. and go until 10 p.m.   

Sweely 

Lincoln Factory

March 20

$23

If it’s specifically house music that’s calling your name, we’ve got something up our sleeve for you too. This Friday at the Lincoln Factory, French producer Sweely is headlining with m.O.N.R.O.E, Rakim Under and more in tow. This is Sweely’s first time performing in Detroit and in exchange for our stamina, he’s rewarding us with retro funk and jazz-inspired tracks until the sun comes up. This event begins at 10 p.m. and goes until 5 a.m.

THRG Presents 

Marble Bar

March 20

$17

If you’re looking to start somewhere else on Friday and then migrate over to Lincoln, you might want to check out Marble Bar. Breakbeat and Bass are gonna be shaking the windows as Emma DJ, Maara, Jacob Park and more make the dance floor erupt. This event begins at 9 p.m. and goes until 3 a.m. 

This week on Visions, I continue showcasing women in jazz and improvised music for Women’s History Month. All but two selections are led by women and while a majority of the episode focuses on newer releases, I still get a few classics in the mix.

I play quintessential cuts from Shirley Scott, Jessica Williams, Marian McPartland, Carmen McRae, and Amina Claudine Myers. I play brand new music from Caroline Davis, Ella Grace, Irreversible Entanglements, and Sylvie Courvoisier. I fill it all out with music from Sasha Berliner, Milena Casado, Linda May Han Oh, Patricia Brennan, Allison Miller, Esthesis Quartet, and more.

Check out the playlist below and listen to the episode on-demand for two weeks after it airs using the media player above.

Visions Playlist for March 16, 2026

• “UMMG (feat. Taylor Eigsti)” – Sasha Berliner
• “Yet I Can See” – Milena Casado
• “Éclats – for Ornette (Live in Europe)” – Sylvie Courvoisier Trio
• “Elbow Room (Live)” – Jessica Williams
• “Lawns” – Walter Smith III
• “Vibrate Higher (feat. Motherboard)” – Irreversible Entanglements
• “Make Someone Happy” – Shirley Scott Trio
• “Cherry Blossoms in the Rain // Sailing Through a Cloud (feat. Julia Danielle, Garrett Munz, Aval Stanley, Marion Mallard & Jayden Richardson)” – Ella Grace
• “It’s Over Now” – Carmen McRae
• “The 23”- Nels Cline
• “Portal (feat. Ambrose Akinmusire & Tyshawn Sorey)” – Linda May Han Oh
• “Aquarius” – Patricia Brennan
• “Doozy” – Marian McPartland
• “Of Two Rivers (Part 2)” – Allison Miller
• “3/4 of 4/4” – Amina Claudine Myers
• “Springtails” – Caroline Davis
• “Character” – Yuhan Su
• “Hollywood” – Esthesis Quartet

We know you’re tired from the joyful depravity of yester-week, but strap down those light-up Velcro sketchers and get yourself prepared for another 7 days of endless art and music in the Paris of the West.  

Upcoming events (March 12-19)

313 Day at The Station

Michigan Central Station

March 13

  $15

Embrace the city you love and hold it tight, or twirl it around, as you party in a piece of history this 313 day at Michigan Central Station. World-renowned DJ, Waajeed, is turning the building into an instrument of its own as house and hip-hop resonate off the limestone and into your bones.

The set begins at 6 p.m. and ends at 10 p.m., so as long as you can keep your eyes wide, you’ll be just in time for our next events. 

LA DISCOTECA 

Tangent Gallery

March 13

$20

The ear canal isn’t just a means of hearing; it’s a portal into another place and time. This Friday, transport yourself to Bogotá at the Tangent Gallery. DJ RUIZ OSC1 is spinning deep vinyl mixes that blends Colombian salsa with entrancing electronic drumlines, and if you’re one of those people who feels the need to step away from the party for a moment, feel free to check out the artists Tangent has sprawled across the walls. The event starts at 9 p.m. and goes until 3 a.m.

Piano Party 

Big Pink

March 13

$23

If your soul doesn’t long for Latin American melodies, maybe you’re feeling more drawn to the sounds of South Africa. This Friday, get ready to immerse yourself in the warmth of Johannesburg rhythm with DJs Yung D, Blakito and Ivy as they make the turntables erupt with Afrohouse, Amapiano and Gqom. The event starts at 10 p.m. and goes until 2 a.m. 

City of Stars 

2529 Orleans St. Detroit, MI

March 13

$10

Skate over to Eastern Market for the City of Stars art exhibition to view the works of local artists Sheefy McFly, Tony Whlgn, Phil Simpson and more, while you sip a cocktail and enjoy some barbecue. Four art pieces will be raffled off at the end of the night. Tickets to enter are $5. The event starts at 6 p.m. and goes until 12 a.m. 

Street Wear Art Market 

Detroit Shipping Company 

March 13

Free

Now, if you’re looking at all these options for 313 day and thinking to yourself, “man, I want to pop out tonight, but my outfits look like they were curated by a colorblind 5-year-old,” don’t worry, we’re here to help. Support local fashion and get yourself right at Detroit Shipping Company’s street wear art market, featuring artists ZekeDidIt, Artnuttz, Crushed Velvet Collection and more. Take the opportunity to network and grab a brew while you contemplate which hat fits the night’s vibe. The event begins at 4 p.m. and goes until 9 p.m. 

Darcy Moran 

The Crofoot

March 14

$23

Take a hike out to Pontiac to see emerging metro Detroit rock band Darcy Moran with openers Fremont Pike, Times New Roman and Travesty. Call an Uber, grab a few drinks and support the musicians that help make Michigan great. The event begins at 6 p.m. 

American Aquarium  

The Sanctuary

March 18

$33

That being said, if you were looking to combine your urge for rock with a bit of country twang, we’ve got the drop on that, too. North Carolina’s own American Aquarium is performing in Hamtramck next Wednesday, so make your choice, cowboy boots or Vans and make your way down The Sanctuary for some southern revelry. The show begins at 7 p.m. 

The Sounds of Laurel Canyon 

Orchestra Hall

March 13 -15

$21

But, if you’re more of an old soul and you’re looking to escape to the sweet sounds of 60’s and 70’s California rock, be sure to take a trip over to the Detroit Symphony Orchestra this weekend. Led by conductor Jeff Tyzik, the DSO is going to be enveloped in the music that made a generation of peace and love, featuring hits from The Eagles, The Doors, Fleetwood Mac and more. The event begins at 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, with a 3 p.m. show on Sunday.  

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Michigan Ave, Corktown

March 17

Free

You didn’t think we’d really forget St. Patrick’s Day, did you? Well… maybe afterwards, but we’ll cross that four-leaf clover when we come to it. Grab your shillelaghs and keep a pint in your pocket as the city gathers to celebrate the Irish. The parade begins at 1 p.m.

Today marks a milestone at WDET as the Don Was Motor City Playlist celebrates five years on air.  

Don Was and co-host Ann Delisi have delivered crate after crate of deep cuts and hits since 2021, helping listeners discover new favorite tracks and providing  stories about Detroit’s cultural history every Friday night.  

The show is a love letter to Detroit artists and a hub for all genres and musicians.  

Personal history of our hosts

Was and Delisi got to know each other while working on the Concert of Colors and cultivated a relationship that made them well-prepared for this powerhouse program. Delisi’s 35+ years of insights and experience as a broadcaster, combined with Was’ storytelling and internal archive of tunes, make this segment one of the most unique Detroit has to offer. 

Was, the six-time Grammy Award-winning Detroit native has done it all; quite frankly, there may be no music-related task too Herculean a feat for him to dip his hand in.  

He began his creative endeavors at Oak Park High School where formed his first band, The Saturns. But it wasn’t until he partnered with David Weiss to form Was (Not Was) that his talents were fully realized by the public with hits like “Walk the Dinosaur.”  

Following the band’s hiatus, Was became a successful producer, working with The Rolling Stones, Elton John, Willie Nelson and more. In 1995, he even received the Grammy for Producer of the Year.  

Delisi’s also a force to be reckoned with. She’s hosted Ann Delisi’s Essential Music program since 2009, focusing on creating a platform for local artists and spotlighting musical gems, both old and new.  

Delisi has interviewed a plethora of the greats, from David Bowie to Iggy Pop—she always keeps us on our toes with our ears pressed to the speakers.  

She’s also hosted Backstage Pass, a Detroit Public Television show about arts and culture in the city. In 2023, Delisi was presented with the Spirit of Detroit for her work in uplifting artists.  

Now, Was and Delisi combine their knowledge and lived experiences into one of Detroit’s funkiest radio shows. We couldn’t be prouder to host it here on WDET.

Here’s to five years of the Don Was Motor City Playlist! 

Whether you’re a fan of country, EDM or hardcore, we’ve got you covered this week with some of the wildest events the city has to offer, and maybe even a place to improve your wardrobe in preparation.

Upcoming events (Mar. 5 to Mar. 12)

Michigan Sneaker Xchange 

Huntington Place 

Mar. 7 

  $30

I’d say, “run over to Huntington Place,” but we wouldn’t want you to crease your 3’s before this event even begins. The Michigan Sneaker Xchange is back once again with over 150 vendors dealing out everything from daily beaters to your lifelong grails. Buy, sell and trade your way from those dirty air forces to a pair of deadstock purple lobsters; those without a booth are allowed to bring up to 4 pairs. This event runs from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. 

The Sound of Music 

Fox Theatre 

Mar. 5 – Mar. 8

$38+

The hills are alive and romance has filled the air in Detroit this month. Time travel back to your childhood and embrace the drops of golden sun at the Fox Theatre this weekend for a performance of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s critically acclaimed The Sound of Music, directed by three-time Tony Awards winner Jack O’Brien. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show will begin at 7:30 p.m. 

Classical Roots Concert 

Orchestra Hall

Mar. 6 – Mar. 7 

$26

Swathe your ears in the silk of symphony at the 48th Annual Classic Roots Concerts hosted by the DSO. Since 1978, the DSO has held this event as a spotlight to better appreciate the works of black composers. The event is premiered by Kenneth Tomkins, commemorating the experiences of the enslaved and abolitionists upon the Underground Railroad with his spirited moving concerto. The Friday performance will be at 10:45 a.m., with Saturday night’s performance starting at 7:30 p.m. 

DCFC Kit Unveiling & Afterparty 

Big Pink

Mar. 5

$23

Grab your cleats and head over to the East Side as the Detroit City Football Club gets ready to reveal their new uniforms and make you hit your signature celebration moves on the dance floor. Earlier in the evening, there will be pickup soccer games, food vendors, drinks and more. Later, the kids are gone and the party goes on as DJs Sheefy McFly and JMT juggle the decks…just make sure not to take a dive. 

Midwest Freaks 

Tangent

Mar. 7

$35

Unleash your freak and shake off those conformist notions like a dog in a tick-riddled field this weekend with some of the most debaucherous DJs Detroit has to offer. This is the third city Midwest Freaks has taken on in its crusade to liberate the self-doubting traditionalists of the Rust Belt, although maybe it’s time you hedonists show them a thing or two about the beautiful anomaly we call our city. DJs include Rrose, BMG, Centrific and more. The event starts at 9 p.m. and goes until 6 a.m., so stay hydrated you night owls.  

Cuffing SZN 

Big Pink

Mar. 7

$23

Follow the pink neon glow over to Big Pink this Saturday and make sure to bring your partner or be prepared to find one; DJ MOCHI and Fullbodydurag are spinning R&B tracks until your heart looks like the Grinch’s post-Whoville Christmas carol. The event starts at 10 p.m. and ends at 3 a.m. 

Panda House 

The Sanctuary

Mar. 6

$22

Make sure to keep a piece of bamboo on your person this weekend because Panda House is bringing the zoo to The Sanctuary. The Detroit-based hardcore band is playing a set alongside Hail Your Highness, Brown Maple and Great Planes. The event starts at 7 p.m.  

Stephen Wilson Jr. 

The Fillmore

Mar. 11

$53+

Envelop yourself in Americana next Wednesday with a performance by emerging country/rock sensation Stephen Wilson Jr. The Indiana native is hitting our city as part of his Gary the Torch Tour and believe me, you’re not going to want to miss this baseball-capped guitarist’s rise to fame. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m. 

A$AP Rocky has always pushed against the edges of hip-hop. After spending time focused on fatherhood and acting, he returns with something different again, leaning into psychedelic textures, alt-rock energy and post-punk attitude.

Some critics are connecting it to a broader movement of Black artists exploring indie rock spaces, sometimes called afro-grunge. 

Whatever name you give it, the mood is hypnotic, experimental and bold. Rocky lets the atmosphere breathe while he floats across it. Here’s “PUNK ROCKY.” My Pick of the Week.

That was A$AP Rocky with “PUNK ROCKY.” If you appreciate when artists color outside the lines, join us every Saturday evening at 6 p.m. on 101.9 WDET and wdet.org for multi-genre journeys.

For The Progressive Underground, I’m Chris Campbell. We’ll see you next time. Peace.

On this week’s episode of Acoustic Café, we’re joined by the 4-piece Irish band Ye Vagabonds, playing songs from their 4th album “All Tied Together.” This is the band’s first album with no instrumentals, trad songs, and it’s all in English. Their new songs reflecting on their early days entering the Dublin music scene!

Also this week, Alison Mosshart on the SongWriter Podcast preview, and archives from Graham Nash, I’m With Her and much more.

See the playlist below and listen to the episodes on-demand for two weeks after it airs using the media player above.

Acoustic Café Playlist for March 1, 2026

• “Million Dollar Intro” – Ani DiFranco
• “Undercurrent” – Perfume Genius
• “Keeper” – Courtney Marie Andrews
• “Sweet Ice Tea” – Tinsley Ellis
• “Somewhere Down In Georgia” – Mon Rovia
• “Marguerita” – Graham Nash (Acoustic Cafe in-studio performance)
• “True Love Will Find You In The End” – Beck
• “Forever Never Lasts” – Rachael & Vilray (Acoustic Cafe in-studio performance)
• “Sitric Road” – Ye Vagabonds (Acoustic Cafe in-studio guest)
• “The Flood” – Ye Vagabonds (Acoustic Cafe in-studio guest)
• “Low & Lonely” – AV & The Inner City
• “Only A Fool” – The James Hunter 6
• “Big Money” – Jon Batiste
• “Ancient Light” – I’m With Her (Acoustic Cafe in-studio performance)
• “Radio – Duo” – Alison Mosshart (SongWriter Podcast)
• “Can You Run?” – Rissi Palmer
• “Aeroplane” – Zach Bryan
• “Ripple” – The Dandy Warhols
• “Darkest Hour” – Bob Weir
• “Only A River” – Josh Ritter (Acoustic Cafe in-studio performance)
• “I’ll Change For You” – Mitski
• “Nothing Comes Easy” – Joy Oladokun
• “Long Grass” – Ye Vagabonds (Acoustic Cafe in-studio guest)
• “Danny” – Ye Vagabonds (Acoustic Cafe in-studio guest)

Listen to Rob Reinhart’s Essential Music every Saturday from 2-4 p.m. ET on Detroit Public Radio 101.9 WDET and streaming on-demand at wdet.org

This week on Rob Reinhart’s Essential Music on the final day of February, we’ll jump into historical March releases from the past 60 years including Seger, Anita Baker, Iggy Pop, Marvin Gaye and many more.

Also new music this week from Jill Scott, Mitski, Jose Gonzalez and the upcoming HELP (2) compilation!

See the playlist below and listen to the episode for two weeks after it airs using the media player above.

Rob Reinhart’s Essential Music Playlist for February 28, 2026

HOUR ONE:

• “Red Dragon Tattoo” – Fountains Of Wayne
• “Random Name Generator” – Wilco
• “You Went Away Too Long” – The Womack Sisters
• “A Perfect Storm” – Jose Gonzalez
• “Bruises” – Chris Bathgate
  
• “I Want You” – Marvin Gaye (March 1976)
• “Sweet Love” – Anita Baker (March 1986)
• “Gardenia” – Iggy Pop (March 2016)
• “Be Great” – Jill Scott ft. Trombone Shorty
• “This Time For Real” – Chet Faker
• “Nothing I Could Hide” – Arlo Parks
  
• “Big Bang Baby” – Stone Temple Pilots (March 1996)
• “Takin’ It To The Streets” – The Doobie Brothers (March 1976)

• “That White Cat” – Mitski
• “Doctrine Of Love” – Jalen Ngonda
• “That’s The Way God Planned It” – Billy Preston
• “We All Go Back To Where We Belong” – R.E.M.
• “Everybody Hurts” – Al Green
• “The Freshmen” – The Verve Pipe (March 1996)
• “Soul Kiss” – Joe Jackson (March 1986)
• “Moonlight Becomes You” – Frank Sinatra (March 1966)
• “These Boots Are Made For Walking” – Nancy Sinatra (March 1966)
• “Bad Blood” – Neil Sedaka
  
• “Pictures” – Gnarls Barkley
• “Like A Rock” – Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band (March 1986)

Listen to Rob Reinhart’s Essential Music every Saturday from 2-4 p.m. ET on Detroit Public Radio 101.9 WDET and streaming on-demand at wdet.org

Whether you’re a gearhead, political advocate, artist or house-head, we’ve got you covered this week with the finest club experiences and family functions the city has to offer. Put on your Saturday night best and try to keep it clean for Sunday morning, Detroit!

Upcoming events (Feb. 26 to Mar. 5)

Autorama 

Huntington Place 

Feb. 27-Mar. 1 

  General Admission: $30, Kids 6-12: $10, Kids 5 & Under: Free 

Come down to Huntington Place to experience Detroit’s 73rd Autorama! Check out over 800 unique works of art encapsulating hot-rods, muscle cars, trucks and motorbikes. The event will feature live music, celebrity appearances, famous movie cars, a pin-up contest, and more. The event will run from Friday to Sunday. 

Ground Zero 

TV Lounge 

Feb. 28

$35

The weather isn’t the only thing heating up this weekend. TV Lounge is hosting Ground Zero with performances from DJ Dextro, Redax and Lofila, spinning techno until your heart gives out and legs collapse. Dextro, known for his work on Missile, CLR and Mutual Rhythm, is sure to make this Saturday night one to remember…or not. The event will begin at 9 and go until “late.” 

Art March 

215 W Nine Mile, Ferndale, MI 

Mar. 1-Mar. 31 

Free

Celebrate and connect with Ferndale artists for the second annual Art March! Meet with gallery owners, local businesses and more as you enjoy live music, food vendors and a cash bar. There will be a wide variety of events available throughout March, but the opening takes place on the 1st from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. 

State of the Mama 

Jam Handy

Mar. 5

Free

Come down to Jam Handy next Thursday for the Mothering Justice Action Fund’s State of the Mama. This year’s theme is “Rooted in Resistance: Mamas Decide,” honoring generations of Black resistance while advocating for mothers to make their voices heard to contribute to Michigan’s political future. There will be a panel discussion with State and Federal candidates as well as Michigan advocates, including Abdul El-Sayed, Mallory McMorrow, Eboni Taylor, Nyah Phillips and more. The event will begin at 5 p.m. and go until 8 p.m.  

Dilla World 

Lincoln Factory

Feb. 28

$23

It’s been 20 years since J. Dilla passed and Detroit remains hungry for donuts. Dance your way down to Lincoln Factory for the 5th annual celebration of Dilla’s life and legacy with artists Blaaqgold, Meftah, Big Tone and more. Best to start this set with a pre-function coffee because this event starts at 10 p.m. and goes until 5 a.m. 

Donovan Glover & Jeanine Styles 

Big Pink

Feb. 27

$23

Warehouse raves made Detroit notorious for its nightlife in the 90’s and 2000’s, and today’s no different…well, perhaps it’s a bit more up to “legal standards” now, but you get the gist. Join DJs Donovan Glover and Jeanine Styles for an evening of high BPM house and dance music over on the east side. The event starts at 10 p.m. and goes until 2 a.m. 

The Planet D Nonet 

Cliff Bells

Feb. 26-Mar.1

$25

If you’re not a fan or tired of Detroit’s electronic side, perhaps you’ll be better off getting acquainted with its older-spirited cousin. Hop, skip and jump over to Cliff Bells between Thursday and Sunday to witness The Planet D Nonent perform their acclaimed album, “Echoes of Harlem: A Salute to Duke Ellington, Vol. 2.” Doors open at 5 p.m. for dinner and 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. for show seating.  

Peter McPoland & Girl Tones 

The Shelter

Mar. 3

$35+

Peter McPoland takes on The Shelter with Girl Tones in tow this upcoming Tuesday. Vermont clashes with Kentucky on stage as these two budding alternative rock powerhouses visit our not-so-little city as part of McPoland’s Big Lucky Tour that began earlier this month. The event begins at 7 p.m. 

FRAMEWORK 

Northern Lights Lounge

Feb. 28

$23+

Now, if you’re saying to yourself, “Come on Owen, I know you’ve got to include a bit of variety, but I was hoping for a bit more EDM,” I’ve got you covered. Pop out to New Center for some more electronic-fueled, intimate debauchery with DJ sets by Detroit’s own Rick Wade, Shigeto, Ryan Spencer and Todd Modes. The event begins at 9 p.m. and goes until 3 a.m. 

Editor’s note: An earlier version of this post was published without mentioning State Sen. Mallory McMorrow’s attendance of the State of the Mama event. We have amended this omission to better be in accordance with our value of fair coverage.

This is my final installment of Black History Month celebrations and selections on Visions. I couldn’t possibly cover the pantheon of the greatest Black jazz musicians in a month, the shortest month of the year no less, but I hope you’ve enjoyed listening as much as I’ve enjoyed putting these episodes together.

Visions typically covers the period of jazz from the late 1960s to the present, but I couldn’t celebrate Black History Month through jazz, aka black music, without taking it back a little further to the 1950s and even 1940s. And I still haven’t even covered the half of it! But I’ll keep celebrating black music each week, each month, each year of Visions.

During this episode, I feature music from 1956 to 2026. You hear Joe Henderson, Elvin Jones, Cecile McLorin Salvant, Lee Morgan, Art Ensemble of Chicago, Mulgrew Miller, Immanuel Wilkins, Tomeka Reid, Herbie Hancock, Marcus Belgrave, Duke Ellington, and many more.

Check out the playlist below and listen to the episode on-demand for two weeks after it airs using the media player above.

Visions Playlist for Feb. 23, 2026

• “Punjab” – Joe Henderson*
• “Angela” – Lee Morgan
• “New Breed” – Billy Harper
• “Waltz for Monk [Live]” – The Mulgrew Miller Trio
• “A Night In Tunisia” – Dizzy Gillespie Big Band
• “Len Sirrah” – Elvin Jones*
• “Wild Women Don’t Have the Blues” – Cécile McLorin Salvant
• “BLUES BLOOD” – Immanuel Wilkins
• “Thème de Yoyo” – The Art Ensemble of Chicago
• “a(ways) For CC and CeCe [feat. Jason Roebke, Mary Halvorson & Tomas Fujiwara]” – Tomeka Reid
• “Firewater” – Herbie Hancock
• “Odoms Cave” – Marcus Belgrave*
• “Fleurette Africaine” – Duke Ellington
• “Darn That Dream” – Dexter Gordon
• “Kahlil the Prophet” – Jackie McLean

* indicates Detroit artists

On this week’s episode of Acoustic Café, our in-studio guest is Tre. Charles. He just started his musical journey 5 years ago, and he’s already appeared at Newport Jazz, and on stage with Ondara, Fantastic Negrito and many others. When not touring, Tre is organizing an artistic community in his home of Chapel Hill, NC.

Also this week, cool stuff from our archives from Beck doing a Hank Williams cover, Regina Spektor and much more.

See the playlist below and listen to the episodes on-demand for two weeks after it airs using the media player above.

Acoustic Café Playlist for February 22, 2026

• “Million Dollar Intro” – Ani DiFranco
• “Blues Run The Game” – Simon & Garfunkel
• “Fire Escape” – The Head & The Heart
• “Better Weather” – Kashus Culpepper
• “Vultures” – MEELS
• “Praying For Your Downfall” – Jensen McRae (Acoustic Cafe in-studio performance)
• “Fall Down (acoustic)” – Toad The Wet Sprocket
• “Sake Of The World” – Mutual Admiration Society
• “Memory” – Tre. Charles (Acoustic Cafe in-studio guest)
• “WNDWS” – Tre. Charles (Acoustic Cafe in-studio guest)
• “Cuckoo Storm” – Ye Vagabonds
• “Sun And Moon” – Samm Henshaw
• “Your Cheatin’ Heart” – Beck
• “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” – Beck (Acoustic Cafe in-studio performance)
• “So Much Trouble In The World” – Lucinda Williams
• “We Got To Have Peace” – Mavis Staples
• “Memory Be A Blade” – waterbaby
• “Hi, I’m The Preacher’s Son” – Foy Vance
• “Break This Time” – Alejandro Escovedo (Acoustic Cafe in-studio performance)
• “Can’t Get It Out Of My Head” – Lisa Cerbone
• “Watching You Drown” – Lisa Cerbone (Acoustic Cafe in-studio performance)
• “Summer Dress” – Red House Painters
• “Summer In The City” – Regina Spektor (Acoustic Cafe in-studio performance)
• “What You Won’t Do For Love” – Tre. Charles (Acoustic Cafe in-studio guest)
• “Lately” – Tre. Charles (Acoustic Cafe in-studio guest)

Listen to Rob Reinhart’s Essential Music every Saturday from 2-4 p.m. ET on Detroit Public Radio 101.9 WDET and streaming on-demand at wdet.org

This week on Rob Reinhart’s Essential Music lots of great new Detroit tunes from Dames Brown, Nick Piunti, The Legal Maters…

Also new music now from some great 80s legends still delivering excellent music!

See the playlist below and listen to the episode for two weeks after it airs using the media player above.

Rob Reinhart’s Essential Music Playlist for February 21, 2026

HOUR ONE:

• “No More Lies” – Thundercat & Tame Impala
• “Twisted On A Train” – King Tuff
• “Bein’ Alive” – Melissa Etheridge
• “Indigo Park” – Bruce Hornsby
• “Cry” – Thornetta Davis & Big Chief
  
• “American Obituary” – U2
• “Desire” – U2
• “Stay In Your Lane” – Courtney Barnett
• “The Look Of Love” – Isaac Hayes
• “Hair Down” – Samm Henshaw
• “Tragic Tragedy” – Nick Piunti
  
• “Cowboy Dreams” – Boy Golden w/Cat Clyde
  
• “Ramona” – Beck
  

• “Take Me As I Am” – Dames Brown
• “Belle Isle Drive” – Will Sessions w/Amp Fiddler & Dames Brown
• “In The Middle Of It” – Hiss Golden Messenger
• “Stray Dogs” – Hrishikesh Hirway ft. Iron & Wine
• “Baby’s Behind The Wheel” – Frank Allison & The Odd Sox
• “Song of The Future” – U2
• “Marching On” – The Legal Matters
• “Stay High” – Brittany Howard
• “Another Life” – Alabama Shakes
• “Here” – Mumford & Sons ft. Chris Stapleton
• “Letterman” – Michigander
• “Say It Loud – I’m Black And I’m Proud” – James Brown
• “I’m Black And I’m Proud – Say It Loud” – James Brown, Carl Cox remix
  

Listen to Rob Reinhart’s Essential Music every Saturday from 2-4 p.m. ET on Detroit Public Radio 101.9 WDET and streaming on-demand at wdet.org

 Food is a connection to the past and a living memory. It has a way of reminding the senses that love existed.

It’s never just about the food. It’s about who taught you. It’s about who was there to help you stir the pot and give you the spoon to lick the cake batter. It’s about the traditions passed down on purpose and by accident. And sometimes it’s about learning the hardships that put the food on the table.

Ifayomi Christine is a writer, director, and lens based artist. She recently directed the film “Until It Feels Like Worship,” which untangles generational grief and trauma through remembrance and release.

Cornetta Lane-Smith is a Detroit-based filmmaker, writer, producer and the founder of Studio 8278. She wrote and executive produced the docu-series “Recipes of Resistance.” The series explores how food and conversation help unpack human complexity. 

They both joined The Metro’s Tia Graham to talk more about the film and docu-series. 

Listen to The Metro weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on 101.9 FM and streaming on demand.

Subscribe to The Metro on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

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Whether it’s exploring the world of short film or finding your new favorite whiskey, WDET has you covered on Detroit’s upcoming events. Prepare to expand your palette and dance your heart out, Detroit!

Upcoming events (Feb. 19 to Feb. 26)

Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express  

Stagecrafters 

Feb. 19 through Mar. 1 

  $28-$38

Take a ride to Royal Oak to witness Murder on the Orient Express adapted for the stage. All is well by nightfall, but as the sun rises through the passenger car windows, we’re one traveler short… Who could the killer be? There are performances every Thursday through Sunday until March 1, with both 2 p.m. matinees and evening shows at 7:30 p.m. 

HERd 

The Garden Theatre 

Feb. 20 

Free

HERd is returning to Detroit for its third year, uniting leaders, advocates, and allies for conversations about uplifting women’s voices in its TED Talk-style format. This year’s theme, Passions with Purpose, encompasses the holistic well-being of women by focusing on the emotional, social and professional systems which shape women’s lives. Oh, and there’ll be cocktails! Reception is at 5 p.m. and the program goes from 5:45 p.m. to 8 p.m. 

10th Annual African American Family Book Expo & Read-In 

Developing K.I.D.S. Village Hall 

Feb. 21 

Free

Enjoy an afternoon delving into Black literary excellence for the opportunity to meet with more than 40 independent Black authors and listen to this year’s National African American Read-In. There are books for all ages, with a chance to get signed copies as well. The event will be held from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. 

The 2026 Oscar® Nominated Short Films: Animation and Live Action 

Detroit Film Theatre 

Feb. 20 through Mar. 15 

General: $11.50 & Seniors, Students, and DIA Members: $9.50 

Visit the Detroit Film Theatre inside the Detroit Institute of Arts for a screening of this year’s Oscar-nominated short films. Experience the works of emerging filmmakers as they explore bold stories in condensed segments. Screenings are happening each weekend through Mar.15, with matinees at 1 p.m. and evening showings at 7 p.m.; the collection spans 3 hours with an intermission between animation and live action.  

Detroit Pistons VS. San Antonio Spurs 

Little Caesars Arena 

Feb. 23 

$40+ 

The Pistons are slated to host the Spurs next Monday as they hope to continue their 3-game winning streak. The Pistons are currently the top contender in the Eastern Conference. The game will begin at 7 p.m. 

Symphonie fantastique 

Orchestra Hall  

Feb. 26 through Feb. 28 

$20

Enjoy an evening at the Detroit Symphony Orchestra with a performance of Berlioz’s 5-movement concerto about a young artist’s hallucinations following a failed love affair. The performance will feature the “once in a generation flutist” Emmanuel Pahud as soloist. The event runs for two hours and will begin at 8 p.m.

Haute to Death, BEIGE and Kindle

Marble Bar

Feb. 21

$16+

Celebrate eight years of Marble Bar with a post-Valentines DJ set by Detroit artists Haute to Death (1-800-CALL-ASH & S.O.F.T. Power), BEIGE and Kindle. Be sure to slide through with your partner, best friend, or messy situationship for a few drinks and much-needed dancing. The event starts at 9 p.m. and goes until 3 a.m. 

Big Stretch: Yoga with a live DJ 

Big Pink

Feb. 26

$17

Unleash your inner yogi while you get your groove on at Big Pink next Thursday. Bring your own mat, a friend and prepare to sweat out your troubles while the DJ spins tracks of encouragement. All ages are welcome, music by Botez! The event starts at 7 p.m. and ends at 8:30 p.m. 

Whiskey Festival 

Royal Oak Farmers Market

Feb. 21

$39+

Spend an evening in a whiskey lover’s dream this Saturday at the Royal Oak Farmers Market. With over 100 different brands of whiskey, live music and food vendors, this event is set to help you find your new drink of choice. General admission includes 10 drink tickets as well as a keepsake photo and commemorative glass to help you remember what you’ve forgotten by morning. The event will run from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. 

Lunar New Year at Eastern Market

Eastern Market Shed 5

Feb. 22

Free

Enjoy an afternoon of extravagance at the Association of Chinese Americans’ annual Lunar New Year Community Fair. The event will feature cultural performances from local community groups, food vendors, interactive experiences and opportunities to learn about traditional customs. The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Detroit’s own Zo! and Tall Black Guy are getting ready to release a brand new album titled “Expansions.” It follows the acclaim of their 2021 project “Abstractions,” a record that fused soul, jazz, hip hop and electronic textures and had the industry buzzing. Now they are back with the lead single, and once again they call on frequent collaborator Sy Smith, who recently released her album “Until We Meet Again,” also shaped by this production team. 

If this new track is any sign of what is ahead, expect a love letter to classic soul and dance culture. You can hear flashes of the Mary Jane Girls, Parliament-Funkadelic, Slave, those joints that used to light up the roller rink and keep the floor packed all night. Let’s get into “Keep Him Satisfied.” My Pick of the Week. 

Zo! and Tall Black Guy featuring Sy Smith with “Keep Him Satisfied,” the first single from the forthcoming album “Expansions.”

If grooves like that are your thing, join us every Saturday evening at 6 p.m. on 101.9 WDET and wdet.org, where we live in future soul, deep house, nu-jazz, b-sides and rare grooves.

For The Progressive Underground, I’m Chris Campbell. See you next time. 

Sacred Spaces is more than a tour,  it’s a celebration of cultural stewardship, collaboration, and the powerful role Black creatives play in shaping the city’s identity.

Throughout the month, nearly twenty Black-owned galleries, cultural institutions, and creative spaces have their doors open and are cross-promoting one another, inviting residents and visitors alike to experience the depth, diversity, and resilience of Detroit’s art ecosystem.

Misha McGowan is the gallery director and co-founder of Irwin House Detroit on West Grand Blvd. She also is the creator of Sacred Spaces.

We begin the conversation learning more about its origins and what’s happening right now to keep Detroit’s arts ecosystem connected. 

Listen to The Metro weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on 101.9 FM and streaming on demand.

Subscribe to The Metro on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

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