"Metal Feet"
Michigan Central Station as part of Detroit Month of Design
Detroit
Sept. 11, 2026
Tap may be a dance style, but it is also a musical instrument, which was the focus Friday during “Metal Feet,” a Detroit Month of Design event held at Detroit’s Michigan Central Station.
Hoofer and shoe designer Rick Williams led a jam session with live musicians and hip-hop artists featuring his elaborate tap rhythms as the star of the show. The event coincided with the launch of his vinyl album “Metal Feet,” an instrumental record featuring his taps as percussion.
The evening started with a 20-minute black-and-white video of Williams recording the album with his band. It was less documentary and more artistic video recording of the album, which was followed by the live version.
Rick Williams performing with his band during "Metal Feet."
The vibe of the evening was relaxed and joyful. Williams was blissfully in the zone while performing, an energy that spread to the crowd that packed the train station, hypnotized by the sounds. The ground-level stage was complemented by video projections that captured the speed and intricacies of Williams’ feet, which I appreciated because seeing the footwork up close adds a greater understanding of the skill, and dance is meant to be seen.
One of the event’s best surprises was the appearance of Williams’ friend, renowned tap dancer Jason Samuels Smith. Smith briefly joined Williams for a short performance. You could feel the shared love of the art form and warmth between the two dancers. I would have loved to have seen more of his dancing during the performance.
Jason Samuels Smith performing during "Metal Feet"
In addition to his dance skills, Smith is known for his signature JSS Tap Shoes, co-designed with Bloch, which are popular with serious tap dancers. Williams – also a shoe designer – created his own design with the JSS line, which was on display and connected the event to the larger Month of Design theme.
The second set of the night was more of a hip-hop concert featuring local artists, with Williams joining in occasionally. It was a different show from the first half of the evening but continued the chill energy you’d expect from a jam session.
As a tapper myself, I found the live dance parts of the show to be the highlights, watching an expert showcase a mastery I do not have. The event was just one of the many new people, places and ideas that you encounter during Detroit’s Month of Design every year, a reminder of what makes the city so special.
