January 2024

Toby Tansil discusses the documentary he helped executive produce, “Walk Through the Valley.” This compelling film emerged from a student’s challenge to empower their community, shedding light on Detroit’s history with Black people and the iconic Paradise Valley. Set to premiere at the Detroit Historical Museum Theater on February 11, the documentary features prominent figures like Ed Vaughn, JoAnn Watson, Jamon Jordan, and more. Toby shares his personal journey, utilizing basketball as a platform for growth and development, especially in working with Alkebu-Lan Village and community building. Explore the intersection of basketball, Black liberation, and the Schoolcraft neighborhood in this captivating episode, delving into the rich tapestry of Detroit’s cultural heritage.

Detroit is Different invites you into the dynamic world of Lawrence ‘LoDeez’ Burnside, a seasoned hip-hop artist whose journey in music has taken him to new heights. I share my personal connection rooted in high school rap battles with him, LoDeez’s trajectory has soared with the release of his latest album, ‘Dope House Gone Mad.’ In this engaging podcast episode, delve into the artist’s profound reflections on fatherhood, resilience amidst high school challenges, and surviving a daunting motorcycle crash. Join the candid conversation between two friends as they explore the essence of Detroit rap, discuss the evolving landscape of hip-hop, share anecdotes from their high school days, touch upon the importance of family, and delve into the intricacies of staying creatively inspired.

Detroit is Different invites you into the soulful world of Beverly Johnson, known to Detroit as Bevlove. Born into a family steeped in music, Bevlove’s journey from her mother’s lullabies to becoming a soulful sensation is a tale of love, passion, and unfiltered honesty. In this podcast, Bevlove shares the profound impact of years of journaling on her lyricism, giving birth to soul-stirring tracks like “Truth” and “Beautiful.” Delve into her formative years at Cass Tech’s theater department under the guidance of the Tony-winning Marilyn McCormick, where Bevlove not only honed her craft but also took center stage as Carmen Jones. Whether captivating audiences in Los Angeles or bringing it back to her roots in Detroit, Bevlove’s music, available on SoundCloud, Spotify, and iTunes, reflects the essence of a truly gifted artist whose heart remains rooted in the city she calls home.

Check out her music here on Sound Cloud: soundcloud.com/bevlove

Khary Frazier of Detroit is Different welcomes back Malachi Barrett from Bridge Detroit, talking Detroit politics from 2023 into 2024. The discussion delves into the pivotal matters concerning the Detroit City Council and the Mayor of Detroit matters, spotlighting the things shaping the city’s future. Angela Whitfield Calloway’s (Councilmember District 2) proposal to levy taxes on stadium ticket sales to bolster Detroit, while Fred Durhal’s (Councilmember District 7) vision to use ARPA funding for reimbursing those impacted by pension losses garners significance as two ordinances to be voted on in 2024. Scott Benson’s strides towards building emissions air quality is an ordinance that passed in 2023 that will be enforced in 2024, alongside the noteworthy update on the City of Detroit Reparations Task Force initiated by Council President Mary Sheffield. Mayor Mike Duggan’s proactive efforts to get the Michigan State Legislature’s backing for his Land Value Tax will emerge as a focal point in early 2024 local politics. This was a discussion that discussed tax breaks, affordable housing, tax money for development, surveillance oversight, lower crime rates, and new taxation for residents. Learn all about the 2023 Detroit City Municipal politics.

Malachi Barrett is a journalist for Bridge Detroit and the lead columnist for Detroit City Council.

The 3rd Annual State of Black Detroit conference took place on December 30, 2023, featuring the dynamic perspectives of Dr. Yusef Bunchy Shakur and Khary Frazier. Proudly presented by Detroit is Different in partnership with Detroit Community Movement Builders, this event promises an engaging exploration of pivotal themes impacting the Detroit community.

Featured Speakers
Black Values and Virtues – Dr. Yusef ‘Bunchy’ Shakur
Black Organizing – Carolyn Baker
Black Family – Jasahn & Krystal Larsosa
Black Generation Z – Jerjuan Howard
Black Heath – Dr. Jesse Brown
Black Justice – Nancy Parker
Black Business – Greg McKenzie
Black Media – Piper Carter

Dr. Yusef Bunchy Shakur and Khary Frazier led enlightening discussions delving into crucial aspects that shape the fabric of the Detroit community. Their dialogue will revolve around themes such as Faith, Access to Opportunity, Family, Community, Education, Justice, and Cooperative Economics, each playing a pivotal role in the growth and prosperity of Detroit.

The overarching theme, “Who’s Afraid of a Black Detroit,” sets the tone for thought-provoking discussions and explorations of resilience within the Detroit community.