This weekend the annual Concert of Colors Festival took place in Detroit. Spanning two days and multiple venues, this free event celebrates the indigenous music of the city. A highlight of the festival each year is a performance by Detroit-born superstar Don Was and his All Star Revue. Don’s impressive resume includes multiple Grammy awards / nominations and production credits for acts as diverse as The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Elton John, and John Mayer. A founding member of the band Was (Not Was), Don is also the President of Blue Note Records, and to top it off, a member of DIME’s Board of Directors. Entitled “Music of the Rebellion”, Don’s show this year commemorated the 50th anniversary of the 1967 uprisings in Detroit.
Don’s show is always a highlight of the festival, but it was even more special for DIME this year, who were represented by four of our vocal students! Under the direction of Antea Shelton, DIME’s Head of Vocals and Songwriting, Alivia Combs, Ally Evenson, Danihea Hobson and Devin Woodson took to the stage at Orchestra Hall on Saturday to sing ‘Everyday People’ by Sly and the Family Stone with Don and his band at one of Detroit’s most prestigious venues.
The show was an incredible opportunity for these students, who have just finished their first year at DIME. Here’s what they had to say about the experience of performing with a living legend.
“One year ago today I auditioned for DIME and I have been blessed with the most amazing opportunities. Performing with DON WAS and his band last night was exhilarating to say the least!” (Alivia Combs)
From left to right: Danihea Hobson, Alivia Combs, Devin Woodson and Ally Evenson
“This time last year I was frazzled and nervous about transferring schools to DIME. The thought of “am I doing the right thing?” was crossing my mind daily. One year later, I get to walk out on the stage of Orchestra Hall and perform for the largest audience I’ve seen while up on stage, with Don Was and one of the greatest sounding bands in the world. I know it sounds cliche, but it was a total dream come true. DIME has opened up a world of possibilities for me, and I couldn’t be more thankful.” (Ally Evenson)
On stage at Orchestra Hall
“I’m still mind blown that I was able to perform with Don Was! My life has shifted so much in a positive way since I started attending DIME!” (Danihea Hobson)
DIME students with Don Was!
“Last night was one of the greatest performance experiences of my life. I had the opportunity and honor to perform with Don Was and with some of my best friends! But, our part truly came together with the help of one my favorite teachers, mentors, and songwriters, Antea Shelton! Thank you so much for coaching and supporting us through the whole experience.” (Devin Woodson)
DIME students with Head of Vocals and Songwriting, Antea Shelton
Congratulations to Alivia, Ally, Danihea, Devin and Antea!
