Detroit Youth Choir Rebranded A City

OPINION

by Donna Robertson

The word "Detroit" produces many different perceptions in the minds of people - some negative, but the Detroit Youth Choir is reshaping perceptions of Detroiters.

DYC shined on the America's Got Talent stage, sending a strong message that Detroit is a great city, with great talent and supporters who know how to stand united.

Detroiters sat glued to our screens for weeks - blown away by the choir's immense talent and explosive performances as we watched them compete for a million dollar prize.

We cheered on their outstanding performances, voted 10 times each for them to win, propelled them through every semi-final round, and watched the Detroit skyline light up in support and appreciation of DYC's  stellar representation of our city.

DYC showed the world that they are something special. Not just a choir that pours their heart and soul into each performance, but a rare jewel. A group with some of the most amazing youth on planet earth. 

Detroiters experienced sheer excitement as we watched DYC take center stage and reach for the stars. Their stories of determination touched us and drove us to tears. Their talents, energy, and enthusiasm drove us to cheers.

While the prize may have gone to the opponent, we know that this is just the beginning for DYC.

We know that their talent and determination will cause them to continue to rise and soar.

The same qualities that earned them the Golden Buzzer on AGT are the qualities that will cause DYC to remain unstoppable.

Detroit-Based Clothing Company Donates To Detroit Youth Choir

by Donna Robertson

A local clothing company is gifting the Detroit Youth Choir with T-shirts that help spread a positive message about Detroiters.

Detroit Made Inc. surprised the choir with a donation of 70 shirts as an appreciation gift for their impressive representation of Detroit on a national stage.

DYC recently performed on the hit show America's Got Talent, earning a spot in the competition finals. 

"Our shirts make a statement", said Detroit Made owner Erik Williams. "Our motto is Detroit Made - Real City. Real People. This donation is just a way to show how proud we are of young, talented, hard working individuals from our city who are committed to pursuing their passions and living their dreams. They are setting a great example for their generation." 

Williams felt prompted to make the donation after DYC performed at his church in Detroit.

During that guest appearance, he met with the choir's director, Anthony White, and learned that they share a similar vision of empowering lives. 
"I wanted to show my personal support by sowing a gift into their lives", said Williams.
Detroit Made launched their online apparel company a year ago with a goal of using their motto to help reshape perceptions of Detroiters.

The company plans to continue supporting and partnering with other constructive efforts that promote the city of Detroit and the metro-Detroit region.

DYC's next scheduled appearance on America's Got Talent will be Tuesday, August 27th. Voting will run from Aug. 27 at 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. on Aug. 28.

(L-R) Rian Williams, DYC Director Anthony White, 
Detroit Made Owner, Erik Williams

DYC Choir member in Los Angeles preparing for  AGT rehearsal.