Each year, Kresge Arts in Detroit selects and awards one eminent artist with a $100,000 unrestricted prize to acknowledge their achievement in the arts and dedication to uplifting Detroit’s cultural community. 

Marion Hayden, virtuoso jazz bassist, educator and 2025 Kresge Eminent Artist, joined The Metro on Thursday to talk about the honor and reflect on what inspired her love for music.

Hayden said music has always been a huge part of her life. Both of her parents played piano and they lived in Detroit's historic Russell Woods neighborhood during a time when art and creative outlets within the Black community were thriving. 

Beginning at Cass Technical High School at 16 years old, Hayden connected over music with Marcus Belgrave — known far and wide as a musical savant and mentor — who was also named a Kresge Eminent Artist in 2009. 

Use the media player above to listen to the full conversation.

Hear more stories from The Metro on Wednesday, Feb. 13, 2025.

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