In honor of Women’s History Month, One Detroit celebrates the voices, talents, and contributions of women in the music industry. Throughout the month, and all year long, we’re highlighting the incredible diversity and creativity of women in music, from pioneers and trailblazers to rising stars and established legends.

Whether you’re a fan of rock, pop, hip-hop, jazz, country, or classical music, you’ll find inspiring stories, fascinating facts, and amazing performances that showcase the power and passion of women who have shaped the sound of our times. Join us in exploring the past, present, and future of women in music and celebrate their impact on our culture, our communities, and our lives.

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Detroit DJ Whodat talks about her love of house music and uplifting Black female artists

Lifelong Detroiter Terri McQueen, also known under the moniker DJ Whodat, talks about her love for house music, being an African American woman in the music industry, and what motivates her to create the soulful, expansive mixes and eclectic productions that make up her unique sound.

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2023 NEA Jazz Master Award-winning violinist Regina Carter

Detroit-born violinist Regina Carter has received another prestigious musical honor: the 2023 National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Jazz Masters Award. She talks about making the music she loves and its connection to Detroit.

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The Godmother of House Music: DJ Stacey “Hotwaxx” Hale

The Godmother of House Music, DJ Stacey “Hotwaxx” Hale, discusses her early years navigating through a male-dominated industry, her passion for music mentorship, and her Sheometry Music & Arts Festival.

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Detroit drummer paves the way for other female drummers

Trailblazing Detroit jazz drummer Gayelynn McKinney talks about finding her place in a male-dominated industry, playing in the all-female jazz group Straight Ahead, and her Women Who Drum music festival.

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Marion Hayden: Music educator by day, renowned jazz bassist by night

The legendary Detroit jazz bassist Marion Hayden, co-founder of the all-female jazz group Straight Ahead, talks about her introduction to music and the legacy of Detroit’s jazz culture.

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Vocalist Joan Ellison personifies the legendary Judy Garland

Vocalist Joan Ellison pays tribute to the iconic American actress and singer Judy Garland and talks about what it was like to personify her legacy on stage.

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Detroit hip hop artist D.S. Sense

Detroit hip hip artist D.S. Sense spreads hope and happiness during the start of the pandemic through her Quarantine Concert series. She talks about her music, passion and perseverance.

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Chicago jazz pianist Alexis Lombre finds her second home in Detroit

Alexis Lombre talks about her musical upbringing, her newfound connection to Detroit, and her song “Come Find Me,” about an internal conversation with God.

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Detroit hip hop artist Detroit Ché

Local hip hop artist Detroit Ché gives her take on the music she produces and its connection to Detroit.

Performances by Women in Music

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Detroit Punk Rockers GiGi

All-female Detroit punk band GiGi performs their song “Don’t Quit the Band” at the 4th annual Detroit All-Star Garage Rock Punk Revue.

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Singer/Songwriter Audra Kubat

Local folk-punk singer/songwriter Audra Kubat performs her song “Oh Mother” at the 4th annual Detroit All-Star Garage Rock Punk Revue.

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The Leslie DeShazor Quintet

The Leslie DeShazor Quintet, fronted by renowned jazz violinist Leslie DeShazor, performs at the Dirty Dog Jazz Café.

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Singer/Songwriter Alison Lewis

Singer/Songwriter Alison Lewis 

Detroit singer/songwriter Alison Lewis performs the title track from her solo album “Our Lady of the Highway.”

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The Aisha Ellis Trio

The Aisha Ellis Trio

Drummer and percussionist extraordinaire Aisha Ellis takes the stage with her trio, the Aisha Ellis Trio, to perform their song “In Order.”

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Singer Monique Ella Rose

Singer Monique Ella Rose 

Detroit-based singer Monique Ella Rose blends Gospel, jazz, soul and R&B into her single “Can’t Get Enough (A Love Oddessy).”

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Laura Rain & The Caesars

Laura Rain & The Caesars 

Detroit artist Laura Rain & The Caesars blend nostalgic Motor City soul with elements of jazz, R&B and blues in their song “If I Can’t Have You.”

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