2025 Women Of Live: Shahida Mausi

Shahida Mausi
President | The Right Productions
SVP & CSO | Black Promoters Collective

WORDS OF WISDOM | “Personal peace. Personal power.”
SHOW OF THE YEAR | “Kaovanny. Her song ‘War Cry’ moved me to buy her a ticket to Detroit and have her open for Damien Escobar.”

In 1996 Shahida Mausi formed The Right Productions, Inc., which has operated the city-owned Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre in Detroit, since 2004. Under her watch, the 6,000-seat venue has hosted superstar performers, hit attendance milestones and gained industry recognition.

In 2023, The Right Productions, City of Detroit and Neighborhood Services Organization opened the Tommy Garrett House, a place for unhoused creatives with funds generated by concerts at the Aretha.

“Homelessness impacts people of diverse demographics and homeless artists are in need of spaces that facilitate their creative expressions while helping them get back on their feet,” explained Mausi.

Utilizing her background in the cultural and entertainment industries, Mausi has built relationships that have advanced the goals of the community and the waterfront venue in what was formerly Chene Park in downtown Detroit. Mausi balances the needs of government with the needs of the industry and public and advocates for the advancement of women and people of color.

“Keep pushing for equity,” she offers up as advice. “Open doors just because you can. Take care of young female artists. Give them the care and support to go the distance in a tough industry. Change the narrative about how women and their professional requirements are spoken of. Respect is due.”

Mausi sees DEI as a social and business imperative.

“Diversity is good business,” explained Mausi. “Diversification in audiences and talent pools means multi-revenue streams. Equity is demonstrable when people know their worth and their power. It’s best to include people who recognize, encourage and value the contribution of diverse participation. The synergy of DEI is real, creative and quantifiably. It’s a core value of The Right Productions, Inc.”

The amphitheater, which opened in 1985 as part of a redevelopment project along the Detroit River, celebrates its 40th music season in 2025 and Mausi is reflecting but also looking ahead.

“It reminds us why we do what we do,” she said. “It’s personal and important. Our work touches people in ways we should never forget.”