Everyone knows Detroit is the Motor City but did you know it’s the hair capital of the world, too? Well, it is. Especially if you ask David “Hump The Grinder” Humphries, the man behind the outrageously awesome hair entertainment extravaganza (internationally) known as Hair Wars. What began as an informal stage show for Detroit hair stylists to present their talents in 1985 has envolved into a travelling gig which has been spotted across the United States. Hair Wars is a wild, captivating nod to African American hair art and culture which is a booming $9 billion industry (didn’t you see Good Hair?). In it, local stylists and salons put on five-minute live shows from choreographed dances to skits ranging in themes like movies and music videos. Basically it’s like your middle school talent show but much more awesome and with a lot more weaves.
Organizers worked with Karmanos Cancer Institute to promote breast cancer awareness to create this year’s Detroit show, “Hair Wars With A Twist of Pink” which was held last weekend at Cobo Center. As usual, I couldn’t take my eyes off the stage. Here’s a gallery of images from my camera and iPhone:
For more on Hair Wars visit HairWarsUSTour.com.