Libations for Ismael Ahmed…
We honor the life and lasting legacy of Ismael Ahmed. Ismael was a visionary leader and cherished friend of Detroit Sound Conservancy who devoted his life to community advocacy and cross-cultural exchange. Through his deep commitment to international artistry and creative expression, he helped bring the Concert of Colors to Detroit, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s cultural landscape. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the many communities he supported and uplifted. His legacy of service, generosity, and connection continues to guide and inspire our work.
With decades of community-based experience, Ismael was an invaluable member of a convening DSC hosted in 2023. He offered thoughtful insight into both the challenges and possibilities within Detroit’s musical ecosystem, grounded in years of lived knowledge and care for the city. A passionate champion for artists, he consistently encouraged creatives to claim ownership of their work and recognize their impact. He showed up fully, supporting artists, fostering meaningful connections, and building bridges that empowered creatives to platform themselves with confidence and intention.
“There is a whole system set up that makes sure that low-income people don’t have access to the music, that people of different cultures of color don’t collaborate or know each other’s cultures. I’m not calling for us to overthrow the government, but I am saying that we can create systems that aren’t dependent on those things. So we can create syndicates that work to bring us together so that we stand up for each other’s music. When our community is in trouble, we can come to each other’s aid, because culture is the thing that weaves us all together.”
Ismael Ahmed
Libations from our Director, Michelle Jahra McKinney…
“Well, Planetary Citizens,” as Brother Ismael Ahmed would say on his WDET-FM Detroit show, This Island Earth.
I met Ismael many times over the years, but one of the most meaningful moments was when he hired me to perform at Concert of Colors 1996 with my women’s percussion and vocal group Hakamma. At that time, we were the only shekere group in Detroit.
He spoke to us about being “planetary citizens.” He was angelic. There was a beautiful aura around him, and his actions always followed his philosophy. He didn’t just talk about loving the community; he lived it. He was sincere, and he worked tirelessly to bring his visions into reality. Through his work, he brought a broader worldview to Detroit artists, grounding global perspective in local care.
With many years of community work and lived experience, Ismael was an invaluable asset to DSC’s Legacy Council. His insight illuminated both the potholes and the solutions within Detroit’s musical landscape, drawn from decades of engagement. He was a powerful advocate for artists learning to take ownership of their own work and their impact.
Ismael remained involved with DSC’s vision to preserve Detroit’s music legacy, reaffirming his belief in Detroit as a pillar and incubator for some of the world’s greatest talent.
Ismael was exactly what we needed at this time.
He showed artists ways to be self-sufficient, reminding them of their power in building bridges, and creating pathways for themselves. He brought a worldview to Detroit artists, and for that, the city of Detroit is forever grateful.”