Embracing the Power of Music: YEAH! Kicks Off 2025 with a Commitment to Youth Empowerment
"Music is the ultimate power—it's where we heal, grow, and start fresh. Every new note is a chance to rewrite our story." – Toshi Reagon
Happy New Year from all of us at YEAH! As we step into our 22nd year, we’re reflecting on how far we’ve come and looking forward to another year of empowering youth through the power of music. Your support makes it possible for us to create spaces where young people can explore creativity, build confidence, and connect with their communities. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey with us. Let’s make 2025 a year of growth, change, and, of course, music!
YEAH! News
Gig Explorer Podcasting Workshop Rescheduled
Due to recent weather, our Podcasting Workshop has been rescheduled to February 15th, 1-4 PM at We Own This Town Studios. A few spots are still available, so don’t miss your chance to sign up and learn how to make your podcasting dreams a reality!
Unity Song Mix Project
We’re excited to announce that the final Unity Song, UNITE (and We Have No Fear), is now live on Bandcamp! As part of this project, visual artist Olasubomi Nurudeen Aka-Bashorun and his artist community are creating a stunning visual response to the song, which we can’t wait to share with you in February.
Call for Stream-a-Thon Content
Our Spring Pledge Drive Stream-a-Thon Fundraiser is coming up in April! We’re calling for creative content submissions, whether it’s music, visual art, storytelling, or something else entirely. Your talent could be part of this special event, helping us raise support for YEAH’s mission. Submit your content and inspire the next generation of creators!
YEAH! Programs
Gig Explorer: Vinyl DJing Workshop
Do you have a love for vinyl or want to dive into the world of DJing? Join us on Saturday, January 25th, from 1–3 PM at Vinyl Tap for a hands-on Vinyl DJing workshop with Leanne and Caroline. Spots are limited, so register now and get ready to spin!
Arts & Activism Workshops
We are excited to partner with Jessi Zazu, Inc. for a three-part workshop series exploring the intersection of art and social change. Mark your calendars for March 8th, 15th, and 22nd (1-3 PM), where we’ll engage in discussions about the transformative power of music and art, paired with hands-on printmaking sessions.
March 8th – A beginner’s printmaking session for ages 6-12
March 15th – An advanced session for ages 13-17
March 22nd – An all-ages session featuring a community print project
Registration will open soon—stay tuned!
Rock Block MNPS Returns
We’re thrilled to announce that our electric guitar program is returning to Hartman and Smith Springs recreation centers this spring. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting opportunity for youth to learn and grow through music.
YEAH! Rocks Summer Camp
It’s official! Registration for YEAH! Rocks Summer Camp is open! Early birds can save $100 if they register by February 15th. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity for your child to explore music in a creative and empowering environment. Register now!
YEAH! Youth Voices
Interest Survey Drawing
We want to hear from you! Complete our quick survey by February 3rd, and you’ll be entered for a chance to win free registration in the YEAH! program of your choice. Your feedback helps shape the future of our programs!
Americans Speak Out About the Arts (2023)
Some important insights from a recent survey on the arts:
Nearly 80% of Americans attended or participated in arts events last year.
76% believe arts and culture are personally important.
90% of Americans support arts education, yet only 52% feel that students have enough opportunities to take art classes.
Let’s continue to advocate for equitable access to arts education for all!
YEAH! Education
This month, we participated in a Tennessee Arts Commission workshop led by Dr. Scott Edgar, where we explored the importance of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) in education. Key takeaways included:
Safety, love, and trust are foundational for students to take risks, explore, and grow.
A brave space challenges both students and instructors to push boundaries for greater learning and connection.
Representation matters—students should feel seen and reflected in their learning spaces.
This Friday, we’ll be joining Belmont University’s Student Chapter of NAfME for a panel discussion supporting the development of future music educators. It’s a great opportunity for us to contribute to the next generation of teaching artists and strengthen our community’s music education landscape.
YEAH! Spotlight
Welcome, Luna Darling!
We’re excited to introduce our new communications intern, Luna Darling! A musician and proud Southern Girls Rock Camp alum, Luna is currently studying Communications at Nashville State. Her passion for music and creative expression makes her a perfect fit for our team. Welcome aboard, Luna!
YEAH! Support
Here’s how you can support YEAH!:
Learn more about us through our Impact Report
Consider joining our Board of Directors
Purchase items from our Amazon Wishlist
Select YEAH! as your charity of choice when shopping at Kroger
Complete our Interest Survey
Share your story about how music or YEAH! has impacted your life by emailing us at director@yeahrocks.org
Become a sustaining donor and continue to support our programs year-round!
YEAH! Calendar
January 25: Gig Explorer Vinyl DJing Workshop
February 2: Interest Survey Drawing
February 15: Gig Explorer Podcasting Workshop * rescheduled date *
March 8, 15, 22: Arts & Activism Workshops
April 1-7: Amp Up YEAH! Spring Pledge Drive
We’re so excited for what’s ahead in 2025 and grateful for YOUR continued support. Let’s make it a year to remember!
At YEAH!, we’re committed to empowering youth to thrive through music by:
Breaking down barriers
Compensating teaching artists fairly
Providing affordable, inclusive, and innovative music programs
Create Joy Through Music!
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