Waajeed is a legendary Detroit musician. Now, he wants to pass the torch to the next generation

Waajeed’s latest EP is his first slice of new music in two years.

It’s called “Acts of Love Mixtape: Act Three.” Across five tracks, the genre-fluid Detroit musician makes the case for why he’s one of the most compelling producers in the game today, putting together elements of funk, hip-hop and a slick Roy Ayers sample all under the banner of progressive house music.

All proceeds from the sales of his new EP will benefit the Underground Music Academy, a new school that Waajeed is co-founding with “Mad” Mike Banks (Underground Resistance) in Detroit’s North End neighborhood.

“It’s a place where those who have been put on the margins are put in the center.” — Waajeed, Detroit producer and DJ

“We actually teach students off of Detroit’s Black musical legacy,” says Waajeed, who started his musical career decades ago as a DJ for legendary Detroit hip-hop group Slum Village.

“We’re going to teach people how to DJ there. We’re going to teach people how to produce,” adds Waajeed, “but most of all, our curriculum is based in social justice. We want you to be a better person — not just thinking about making tracks, but thinking about making change.”

Underground Music Academy and arts nonprofit Living Arts are teaming up for a pilot program for Detroit youth this summer. Slots are available for kids between the ages of 13 and 19, looking to expand their musical chops. Know someone? Reach out to info@undergroundmusicacademy.com for more info.

Listen: Detroit’s own Waajeed premieres his new EP and talks about fundraising for Underground Music Academy.