UMA x Santonio Echols W3rkshop

Saturday, September 5, 2026 | 1:00–3:30 PM EST

The Underground Music Academy presents a rare debut screening of scenes from a documentary in progress, created by Waajeed O'Bryant, Evan Zott, and Rocky Ray, exploring the life and legacy of pioneering Detroit techno artist Santonio Echols.

Santonio Echols has spent decades shaping the sound that would come to define Detroit techno, his influence woven into the city's musical DNA long before most of the world caught on. His work filled the soundtrack of a household on Detroit's east side, the four-on-the-floor rhythms and soulful grooves that would later become the foundation for a new generation carrying his name. Through this screening, audiences get a rare look into the artistry, history, and personal story behind one of the genre's foundational figures.

Following the screening, Santonio is joined by his sons, Santonio Echols Jr. and Manny Echols, for a moderated conversation, moderated by Tajh Morris (Turtle Bugg). Together they discuss growing up immersed in their father's music, finding their own paths as Manny (MannyWya) and Santonio Jr., and what it means to carry a family legacy forward into a new chapter of Detroit's musical history.

This workshop is open to all levels. No music background required, just an interest in Detroit's techno history and the family carrying it into its next chapter.