Don Was Detroit All-Star Revue to Honor The Scene at Concert of Colors 2026
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By Lee DeVito
Originally published by Detroit Metro Times
May 14, 2026
One of Detroit's most beloved music traditions will take center stage at the 35th Annual Concert of Colors as Don Was Detroit All-Star Revue presents "A Salute to The Scene" on Saturday, July 18, from 8:30–10:30 p.m. at the Detroit Film Theatre.
The special performance celebrates The Scene, the groundbreaking Detroit television dance show that aired on WGPR-TV from 1975 to 1987. Often compared to Soul Train, the program introduced generations of Detroiters to funk, R&B, and emerging electronic artists while showcasing the city's vibrant dance culture.
The evening will be hosted by original The Scene host Nat Morris alongside WDET's Ann Delisi, bringing together two familiar voices to celebrate an important chapter in Detroit's musical history.
Led by acclaimed producer and Blue Note Records president Don Was, the Detroit All-Star Revue has become a Concert of Colors tradition, honoring influential artists and musical movements that helped shape Detroit's identity. Previous performances have celebrated icons including George Clinton and Iggy Pop.
This year's performance carries special significance as it is dedicated to Ismael Ahmed, the founder of Concert of Colors, who passed away earlier this year. Ahmed established the festival in 1993 to bring people together through music and cultural exchange, creating what has become one of Detroit's most celebrated annual events.
In comments shared with Detroit Metro Times, Was reflected on Ahmed's legacy, describing him as a leader whose lifelong mission was to unite communities through music, culture, and understanding. He noted that while Ahmed's presence will be deeply missed, his vision continues to inspire the festival and its performers.
The tribute also recognizes the lasting influence of The Scene and legendary Detroit radio personality The Electrifying Mojo, both of whom helped introduce audiences to groundbreaking music that would shape Detroit's cultural identity and influence artists around the world.
Backing Don Was will be members of the Pan-Detroit Ensemble alongside an impressive lineup of guest vocalists and musicians, creating a performance that celebrates Detroit's rich musical legacy while paying tribute to one of the city's most influential television programs.
The Don Was Detroit All-Star Revue is just one of many highlights during this year's festival. The 2026 Concert of Colors lineup also features Miles From India, Sean Blackman's In Transit, Dengue Fever, Burnt Sugar Arkestra, Steel Pulse, and dozens of additional artists representing musical traditions from around the world.
The 35th Annual Concert of Colors takes place July 15–19, 2026 across 13 venues throughout Midtown Detroit. All performances are free and open to the public.
For the full festival schedule and event information, visit concertofcolors.com.