Tell us a little about yourself, your background, and your journey towards becoming the artist you are today.

A lot of Dom the Composer comes from my time in high school. The name came from my friends back then. I started writing music my junior year & I made the decision to pursue music professionally about halfway through my senior year. 

I was planning on majoring in psychology & criminal justice so I could go to the police academy after college, climb the ranks and end up in the FBI. I was obsessed with anything involving espionage & how people work/behave. I felt that my initial pathway was going to give me the opportunity to help people. 

I was pretty deep into my musical journey honestly before making the major change. I’ve been singing since I was 7 with All Saints Choir of Men and Boys in Ashmont and I was involved in every music group/class possible by the time I graduated. The thought of going for it all the way really came to fruition when I realized that I could impact people with the art I perform & create. It felt like & still feels like the right thing to do.

Your Spotify profile indicates that you’re on a mission to “make music with some rhythm, a little bit of blues, and a whole lotta soul.”  Who (or what) inspires your style of music?

To name a few artists: Bill Withers, Jacob Collier, Moses Hogan, Joni Mitchell, Lizzy McAlpine, Moonchild, Billie Holiday, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Nat King Cole. There are so many more! Every artist that I’ve had the pleasure of listening to always teaches me something to do(or not to do) in my career, my music, and my life journey. A lot of the artists I admire stood up for either their people or had to fight to keep their musicianship & I think that’s extremely commendable.

My eclectic listening/playing habits comes from my family. My parents & siblings had me listen to everything. When my dad drove me to elementary school I’d ask him to play AC/DC’s Hells Bells, my sister would let me listen to her Michael Jackson CD, my mum would teach me how to dance to Haitian music, and my brother would send me atypical covers from Dirty Loops & Jacob Collier and telling me about jazz musicians to explore.

The idea of a specific genre for me is hard. I am inspired by too many beautiful things to wrap it in a small gift. When I first started writing music I wasn’t aiming for anything specific, just what felt right. If you check my first year of releases you’ll see a singer-songwriter EP, a lofi jazz song, and an experimental tune. The expectation of sounding like something specific and to fit a certain narrative is great marketing wise but at the end of the day I’m going to be the one playing these songs for the rest of my life. I want the music to be honest.  Every song is a unique story so why can’t they have unique genre traits that bring the story to life? 

As of right now my writing is definitely in the vain of Alternative Soul/RnB & Singer-Songwriter music. My friends and I have been having a lot of fun mixing and matching genres in my new/upcoming releases so you’re gonna hear Soul music packaged a little differently when listening to my music.

Who do you aim to reach with your music, and what message do you want to convey to them?

I’m aiming to reach overthinkers & people who love to self reflect. Those traits often go hand in hand and I feel there’s a very strong sense of being an outsider when you have those traits. I want to let them know that they are not alone & nothing is wrong with them. I felt that I was weird for a while and when I freeze or disassociate I feel trapped in myself. I want to reach out to that younger Dom & people like that and tell them to just breathe and take one step at a time.

I’m a huge fan of writing about the “moments in between life”. We all know about love songs, sad songs, the anthems, etc. but what about the moments & stories of life that get you there? Writing about love is cool but what about the times where you’re learning about your partner or the first time you really knew you loved them unconditionally. I love thinking about those in-betweens, there’s something about those hints of indecision or making your mind up that can make for a great story.

How did you get involved with Music Forward, and how has Music Forward helped you along your journey?

I believe I found Music Forward on Instagram! I saw that they had a virtual open mic and I was looking for more unique opportunities for myself and my music. 

Participating in the event was really cool and I currently keep in touch with a few artists I sang with. The team was so kind and they taught me a few things about presentation and some good insight about performing under different circumstances eg. on twitch. It’s such a cool opportunity and a strong resource for young independent musicians.

What’s the next step for you in your music career?  What goals do you have for the future?

I just graduated college in May so I’ve been going full steam ahead in terms of my music career. I’ve been booking shows for my band and I non-stop & trying to get on a consistent song release schedule. I want to formally announce Dom the Composer, you know? This idea is four years old and I feel like I’ve only touched the surface. 

My hope is to coincide my art with causes I believe in like mental health, youth outreach, & providing a strong example of being your best self. Though I’ve come a long way I feel like there’s so much work to do & I want to help as many people I can especially when I have more resources to do so. There is work that I can do now without a lot of money and I’ll continue to learn and grow from that!

Do you have any new music that we can check out?

Yes I do! Sleepwalking with Streetlights feat. Novian Wright came out on September 28th! We had a blast making that song & we hope you enjoy it too. The song talks about learning from places you’ve never thought of & trying your best to listen. My friends and I have a few more songs coming your way before the end of the year so look out for that!

Finally, how does music move you?

Music moves me in a way that is hard to explain. Whenever I perform, I get the chance to be truly vulnerable with an audience & that is such a powerful thing. Matter of fact the audience also has a chance to let go and be in these moments & stories with my band and I. It is an irreplaceable feeling and it’s never the same.

As a listener, music is vital. Art is imperative to our way of life and I would not be the person I am without it. The feelings that were so hard to explain all of a sudden are broken down with a few phases and some notes, who cool is that??? You’d never think someone could understand you until that moment. It brings a wave of relief and it lets you know that you were never alone to begin with.

Follow Dom the Composer on Instagram

Tell us a little about yourself and how you originally got into writing and performing music.

I am a ninth grader who attends Thousand Oaks High School and is taking theater. I have been in love with singing ever since second grade and have never stopped since. During the pandemic, I had started to become entranced in songwriting. As I was stuck at home every day without anything to do besides schoolwork and browse on Netflix in sixth grade, I turned towards learning the guitar. My parents had gotten me a guitar for Christmas, and I self-taught through YouTube and an app called Ultimate Guitar. Eventually, I realized that I could combine singing and playing, and my first few originals were born. The COVID lockdown started a snowball effect that has led me to so many amazing people and connections, including Music Forward.

How would you define your genre of music, and who (or what) inspires your songwriting?

I would describe my songs as indie-pop, as I am an independent artist who listens to many pop songs. Some of my songs work in some folk-y melodies. Lizzy McAlpine has captured me with her soothing voice and her lovely calming tunes, and she has remained my idol for the past few years. Another smaller artist that I am in love with is Emma Hamel, who’s release of her album Headspace inspired my own Elizabeth the Rebel.

What is the hardest part about being a young, independent musician?

The hardest part about being a young, independent musician is that people’s bias will always cloud their praise. I understand that there are exceptions, but whenever an adult says that I am ‘really good’, they follow the comment with something along the lines of, ‘I can’t believe you’re only fourteen.’ Obviously, I’m not an artist just for the compliments and praise. I’m in it for the connection. However, when I hear the words ‘only fourteen’, I can’t help but feel as if the only reason I connect with people is because of how young I am, and not because of my art. It is so amazing that I was able to find mentors that have seen me as an artist aside from my age and who continue to expand my abilities as a singer songwriter.

What has been the most rewarding part of being a singer-songwriter?

Connecting people is one of the most rewarding feelings. Music truly does have a large impact on an audience, and on various aspects of my life. I have witnessed (through Youth Open Mic Night, my own performances, and my friends’ performances) people who have never met prior to an event be able to come together under one roof and enjoy the same experience. Being able to provide a performance that strangers can hold in their memories and be able to share with each other is one of the most magical aspects of sharing my music.

How did you get involved with Music Forward, and how has Music Forward helped you along your journey?

I found Music Forward on social media and participated in their Friday Open Mic Nights. Besides the many connections and performance opportunities I gained from Music Forward, I was also rewarded with connections to seminars and workshops that have furthered my learning about my art. I am so grateful to Music Forward for deepening my understanding of my own creations.

What’s next for you and your career?  Do you have any upcoming projects or performances?

I am constantly writing songs, as it is my joy in life. I just released an album called Elizabeth the Rebel, and I will continue to share that with people as well. I am also currently working on a musical, which I hope to produce on a community stage one day. I host a Youth Mic Night every month for young artists, singers, performers etc. to come forward and begin to feel comfortable on stage, or simply share their hearts’ desire. Youth Mic Night is being sponsored by community organizations and members which allows performers to not only perform for free but also get cash for their courage. And audience tickets are only 5 bucks. Access to Youth Mic Night is the most important goal I have where cost shouldn’t be a barrier.

Finally, how does music move you?

Music is more than a whole-body experience for me. It captures me from my core and spreads throughout my life. A performance that moved me will stick with me for the rest of my life, and a song that I really connect to will replay in my head over and over and over again. I am entranced by music, and it works its way into every aspect of my life. At school, at home, at the store, while I’m sleeping. Music is always around me, and I am grateful to be able to, not just see or hear it, but to feel, create, build it. Music is a whole-life experience.

Follow Gaby Montiel on Instagram

A huge part of who I am is that I am Filipino-Indian and I grew up in Manila, Philippines. At the age of 10, I began songwriting, coming up with melodies and lyrics on drives home from softball practices or theater rehearsals. But being a successful musician in Manila is very difficult especially when you don’t come from a “connected” family. My mom and I would even travel for 2 hours one way for a 30-minute writing class (it just wasn’t sustainable). Although I had an amazing piano teacher, I didn’t know how else to hone and grow my songwriting skills. So then at 15, I accepted that music was just going to be a hobby. 

All of that changed when my family and I migrated to Seattle, Washington–in my junior year of high school. On top of having to make new friends and navigate in this new environment, starting at a new school in junior year meant being thrown into the US college application process. It was my biggest challenge, but also my biggest ally. I had a Music Technology Teacher who showed me the possibility of turning songwriting from a hobby into a full-time career. And by the powers of the universe, the immense support from family and teachers, and after a lot of hard work, I got into the Berklee College of Music (class of 2024). 

Since being at Berklee I have been getting nothing but mentors, learning from both classmates and professors. I found myself learning things about songwriting that I wouldn’t have imagined I could comprehend a year, two years prior to being at Berklee. Over the last 3 years, I honed my writing, my sound, formed a band, learned how to arrange my songs and performed my originals in many gigs across Boston, NYC, Nashville, and Seattle, and entered many open mics.

I’m now a senior and in my final year at Berklee. Although there is still so much to learn, I heard a quote that really resonated with how I feel about being an artist and songwriter today: “I’m tired, but I never get tired of it” (Taylor Swift). The hustle is going to keep hustling, but I know that the joy of creating something magical will be worthwhile. 

Your music is such a beautiful mashup of so many influences!  How would you define your sound and genre, and who are some of your musical inspirations?

Whenever anyone asks me what my “sound” is, I always fall back on pop-jazz-theater. 

Growing up I was HEAVILY inspired by the Singer-Songwriter icon Miss Taylor Swift. A lot of my storytelling style comes from her, mixed with my musical theater experiences. Nay, my mom, introduced me to Broadway. From Wicked to Mama Mia, I adored musicals, both listening to and performing them. They felt larger-than-life, a characteristic I always wanted in my own life. My Papa introduced me to jazz legends like Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, and Bill Evans. I fell in love with the melody writing and chord changes in a lot of these artists’ songs. 

My core has always been storytelling over jazz-y chords. But my pop bone really came from who I believe is not just a genius songwriter but also a vibrant arranger and producer: Jon Bellion. 

What is your favorite part about writing and performing music?

The BEST part is when my writing reveals a truth in me that I had not recognized, or didn’t allow myself to recognize, before. Writing has always been an outlet for extreme emotions. Be it ecstasy or anxiety, writing is my way of actualizing my feelings. I’m a big journal girlie, because writing is one of the only ways I can get something off my chest, understand it, and (hopefully) move forward. 

I am 100% myself on a stage. Ever since I was little, being on stage just felt right. The BEST thing about performing is when you and your bandmates get “lost in the sauce.” There are magical moments on stage that not even the players can understand. Everyone just transcends and EVERYONE can feel it. That’s the best part about performing: the moment when the music takes you somewhere else. 

Do you have any dream cities or venues that you would love to perform in?

My current dream is to have a sold-out show at the Roadrunner in Boston. I have lived in Boston for almost 4 years now because of college, and throughout that time I’ve gone to several concerts there. There’s something so communal and honest about the space that I adore. 

I would also like to someday fulfill little Manisha’s dream of performing at the Araneta Coliseum in the Philippines. I watched my first concert there (Taylor Swift) and little me would not believe it if I got to do my own show at that same venue. 

Honestly, I don’t have a dream city. I do hope to find myself living in NYC at some point. I’m one of those people that thrives in chaotic-energy spaces. But the dream is to be able to make enough money through music that I can just travel the world–maybe even make my way to cities I don’t even know about yet! 

How did you get involved with Music Forward, and what did you gain from your Music Forward experience?

Funny enough, Music Forward reached out to me for one of their Virtual Open Mic Fridays. It’s pretty incredible because they reached out during a time when I was just starting to really dig into my music, form a band, get on my social media grind, etc. I took it as just another outlet for me to get feedback from Industry Professionals on my songs. Never would I have thought that this opportunity would open doors for me, connecting me to Professionals even outside of the Music Forward sphere. I truly gained a lot of learning and networking opportunities through Music Forward and am so grateful for their continuous support in my artistry

Any new music we can expect from you on the horizon?

Well, if you’re asking… I have my first single “Minor Details” from my debut EP coming out in mid-September. The date will be announced on my social media @manishasmusic (IG, TikTok, Facebook) so definitely be on the lookout for that! The song is about the opposites-attract trope. At the end of the day, the differences between you and a possible partner are just… minor details  

Finally, how does music move you?

Music has a unique way of putting emotions into words, which makes me feel less alone. I’ve always admired artists who have the courage to talk about difficult-to-say, nuanced, “looking like the bad guy”, not afraid to be “cringe” stories. Growing up, I didn’t talk a lot about my emotions, out of fear of judgment–both from others and myself. 

People can feel honesty in their bones, and when artists become so vulnerable that they name and paint their feelings through song, I believe they turn into healers. What I find so magical about music is that it stems from healing or loving oneself, but then has the power to heal and love whole communities. 

Follow Manisha on Instagram

Tell us a little about yourself and how you decided to become a musician. 

Music and singing have been a huge part of my life since as early as I could speak. I was a toddler when I began singing Vietnamese karaoke songs at my Grandma’s house, who my family tells me I get my vocals from. I also briefly took piano lessons at the age of 5 but quit, and then picked it back up later on in 5th grade. Around that time was when I also began learning instruments like guitar and snare, as well as teaching myself the ukulele. In my freshman year of high school, I was basically forced into joining Choir, but I ended up loving it and staying for all four years. I auditioned for the advanced choir and became section leader, president, and assistant music director (who is also the conductor). Around 2021, I began songwriting and distributing my original music on streaming platforms in attempts to turn my hobby into a lifestyle and a career. 

As an avid songwriter, who (or what) inspires your songs? 

As a songwriter, lyricists like Jhene Aiko, H.E.R., SZA, Kehlani, and Summer Walker inspire me the most. These female R&B artists write their own songs and portray their vulnerability through their music in a way that is sexy, sensual, and resonates with wide audiences. They are able to take their deepest pains or most toxic stories and turn them into music of healing, or sounds that touch the hearts and souls of the listeners, which is what I strive for. I admire that they consistently portray deep emotions and meaningful lyrics through their art because chasing money, or being overly influenced by the industry, can sometimes make artists stray away from their vulnerability and authenticity.

What do you find to be the most challenging part of being an artist today? 

With this new age of social media, I see many aspiring artists being inauthentic just to chase the latest viral internet trends or be acknowledged in the music industry. The internet has a heavy influence on its users, and not allowing those external sources to taint your true self or true music is the most difficult part of being an artist today. It has been a challenge for me to continue promoting my music that resonates with myself and my truth, rather than simply dropping songs that I think will blow up as a TikTok dance trend, or conforming to the hottest trends in order to be favored by the algorithm.

How did you get involved with Music Forward, and what did you gain from your Music Forward experience?

Music Forward messaged me on Instagram on October 5, 2022. They said they came across my music and loved my sound, so I was invited to perform in the virtual Open Mic for the fall season. From that event, I had the opportunity to receive advice from a mentor about my performance, meet fellow music artists, and speak with industry experts. After winning Fan Favorite for that season, I also earned new music equipment like headphones, a microphone, and an interface, which were the last pieces I needed to get a home studio started. After that, I stayed in touch with Music Forward on Instagram and subscribed to their email newsletter, so I also participated in some of their educational panels to learn more about the industry and tips for aspiring music artists. My Music Forward experience has allowed me to gain insightful knowledge and resourceful connections.

What’s the next step for you in your music career? What goals do you have for the future?

The next step for me in my music journey is creating a team of individuals to help me with all aspects of my career and craft. As an independent artist, I am my own singer, songwriter, promoter, booking agent, manager, editor, designer, etc. Therefore, I need to find a designated producer, engineer, photographer, videographer, graphic designer, and all the rest to reliably help me execute all of my creative needs. For the future, I aim to consistently release my original music that resonates with millions of fans and gets performed at large venues and music festivals. 

Do you have any new music that we can check out?

Yes! I just released a re-master of my single “Visions” on all major platforms last month in June. I have also just won a competition and received free studio time for the entire month of July/August, so I will be dropping a lot more very soon!! 

Finally, how does music move you?

Music is frequency, which has an effect on us as mostly liquid-beings. Aside from the vibrations quite actually moving us, the lyrics and sounds can portray emotions that are also very touching. I admire that music can provide a source of expression, healing, comfort, entertainment, distraction, and any other benefit the audience wishes to draw from it. It is art, and art can be anything. The infinite possibilities and limitless boundaries for any unique individual makes it so beautiful. Music can be from anyone and for everyone. 

Tell us a little about yourself and your journey towards becoming the artist you are today. 

I’m UraelB (pronounced ou-Rell-Bey) born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. I’m a Hip-Hop Emcee, singer, and songwriter. I grew up playing sports (basketball and football) however, music has been near and dear to me all my life. Hip-Hop specifically has been embedded in my everyday life and has shaped how I carry myself. 

Your music is so fresh and innovative!  How did growing up in LA influence your signature sound, and who do you credit as your musical inspirations?

The music I make is a culmination of my childhood experiences and the variety of music I was exposed to growing up. LA can be a fast-paced/ever-active place, but the people themselves are extremely laid back and move with a breezy confidence. I carry that energy with me in my effortless lyricism and calm melodies. When I switch things up, I reflect the high intensity and liveliness LA is known for as well. Artists like Ice Cube, Kendrick Lamar, Nipsey Hussle, Tyler the Creator, and SchoolBoy Q embody these same qualities in their music that I grew up absorbing and eventually came to display in my own unique way. 

Who do you want to reach with your music, and what message do you want to convey to them?

I will reach the people out in the world who have a love for music and love passionate messages. I will tell my stories for those who don’t know them and could benefit from connecting to my experiences; I will tell the stories of others I know who don’t know how to tell their stories or don’t have the voice to express them; and I will always provide the world with messages that speak to the heart and remind everyone that life is valuable no matter what we go through. 

What has been your biggest career highlight so far?

So far, working with Mick Jenkins and doing a vocal performance on Dancing With The Stars have been my largest highlights. Both were significant accomplishments and opportunities to work with musical geniuses. I know the future holds more where that came from

How did you get involved with Music Forward, and what did you gain from your Music Forward experience?

I signed up for Music Forward’s Open Mic series and became acquainted with the platform via Instagram. Something I told myself in 2021 was to put myself out there and stop being afraid of success and ever since I’ve continued pushing my music and brand and becoming a part of the Music Forward network has helped me do that more than I could’ve imagined.

What’s next for you and your career?  Do you have any new projects or performances?

My new project will be releasing soon! The rollout and final music touches are underway so the greatest album you’ve heard will grace your ears soon!

Finally, how does music move you?

Music is the one thing that keeps me going. Whether I’m making it or consuming it, it’s the beat that keeps my heart pumping. I’m forever grateful for Hip-Hop and music in general because it’s a universal language I can inspire people with.

A Star is Born:

Kayla Erhardt is 18 years old and is beginning to shine through her music. Music Forward Foundation first met Kayla in 2016 when she participated in Bringing Down the House (BDTH) in Las Vegas, Nevada. Through workshops and performances, she says the organization has “helped me become a more comfortable musician as far as performance aspects…taken me under their wing and helped me develop myself overall as a musician.”

In an effort to provide additional opportunities to young musicians, Music Forward partners with other leading music industry organizations, such as VocalizeU. For over 20 years, VocalizeU has offered a 10-day Artist Development Intensive program for students to train with music icons, vocal experts, and industry executives. Since 2018, they have offered a scholarship to a Music Forward alumni, and this year Kayla was awarded the opportunity. When she found out that she would be training in such a comprehensive and unique program, she was overjoyed. In her statement of purpose, she said, “the same way a flower is given life and continues to grow, music watered me. Between the good and the bad, the stage gave me a home when I had no home. The melody gave me a voice. The lyrics gave me meaning.” Kayla understands what it is like to not have a home. As a young girl, she moved around the foster care system and in her mid-teens was homeless for a period of time.

Kayla states that this 10-day Intensive has been the “best week of my life.”  When asked what she was most excited about before attending the program, she said, “I was most excited to meet and collaborate with other musicians that were my age.” And she got to do just that! “Within the workshops, I have been able to gain a knowledgeable perspective behind the logistics of what it means to be a musician… Overall, I have learned to collaborate with other artists and write music together, while having to adapt to different personalities.”

“Being given this scholarship through Music Forward from VocalizeU has been an opportunity of a lifetime – I have never experienced anything like this before!” Kayla’s light will continue to shine as she starts Berklee School of Music this fall. Shine on, Kayla!

Written by Mariam Boyadjian

With new talent emerging all over the nation, Music Forward aims to partner with the best! On June 19, The Big Easy visited Los Angeles when Music Forward industry mentors Kemic Smothers and Octarve H. Anderson, Jr. from OAKSway Entertainment joined our home office in Hollywood. With them they brought Bringing Down the House alumni from New Orleans, Jake Exavier (Class of 2019) and Dallas Burke (Class of 2018), and OAKSway Entertainment artists Maxxi Bryant and Peblo Da BG. Music Forward sat down with the team and gained important insight into their experiences with Bringing Down the House in their city, as well as what the future looks like for these young artists.

OAKSway Entertainment is an entertainment management firm invested in providing opportunities for young artists to grow their musical presence and build their brand. They have been a Music Forward partner for three years, and as the Chief Operating Officer (C.O.O.) Kemic Smothers said, “this has been a rewarding experience for young artists from not only New Orleans, Louisiana, but all over the nation.”  

Experiences with Bringing Down the House (BDTH)

The one word 21-year-old alumni, Jake Exavier uses to describe his experience is  “exciting.” Through the program, he learned about artist management, stage production, connecting with other upcoming artists and artist branding. These were all crucial, transferrable skills that he credits helping him to market his own brand, as well as write and perform his own songs. On June 11, Jake released his single, “Upside Down,” and gave the New Orleans audience a sneak peek of the song during his performance at the New Orleans Bringing Down the House showcase. Every day, he works diligently to ensure he gets to where he wants to be in the future, which is being a well-known artist. 

Dallas Burke, BDTH 2018 alumni, went from performing in a band called The Tainerz, to becoming a solo artist at just sixteen years old. He claimed that BDTH was a great learning opportunity because he now has the “knowledge of how the music business works.” When asked what it feels like to transition from being in a band to going solo, Burke decided he enjoys riding solo more. “Working independently is great because I have more of an opportunity to drop the type of music I personally want to put into the world.”

Upcoming Artist

Maxxi Bryant, an OAKSway Entertainment artist, is thrilled to be at Music Forward headquarters. She recounted, “I have been living vicariously through Jake, so coming from his experiences and watching him do the showcase, I just think that it is very stimulating…This is the only foundation within my radar that I have seen [provide free access to workshop and performance opportunities]. And of course, once it opens up doors, it opens up doors – you’re teaching, you’re motivating, you’re potentially putting them out there to be seen and that’s awesome.” Growing up in a musically-oriented family, she has always had her heart and soul in music. Maxxi is appreciative of the opportunities she has seen Music Forward provide others – she said, “You give young people the willpower to be themselves.” To further hone her musical abilities, she will be applying to be in the Bringing Down the House Class of 2020.

Words of Encouragement from C.O.O. Kemic Smothers

• “You have to dedicate yourself to your craft in the business in order to be successful and move forward.”
• “I never want to see anyone give up on their dreams, ever.”
• “If you are born naturally talented, never let your flame go out.”

Written By Mariam Boyadjian

This year, Music Forward added a mentoring component to the program that allowed artists to work closely with industry mentors to plan and execute their showcase performances.  We are excited to add this piece in our program and will continue to develop opportunities that bolster connections, build confidence, and support artist development. In addition to our mentors, industry professionals reviewed applications, shared expertise during panel discussions, answered questions from participants, offered guidance during hands-on activities, provided performance feedback at showcases, and served as concert emcees.  Los Angeles artists had a special treat when singer and actress Sofia Carson visited their live production workshop. Sofia shared some performance tips and advice with the emerging artists and it was a special experience for everyone involved. We are grateful to the industry professionals who generously shared their time in support of our young artists.

Bringing Down the House would not be possible without the partnership of so many Music Forward champions. Special thanks to Live Nation and House of Blues for venue support and expertise. In addition to our industry professional volunteers, our general event volunteers and program alumni donated their time to ensure smooth and successful experiences across the country.  Bringing Down the House Chicago is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency, and, also made possible through sponsorship from our partner, Preach Management. Finally, we thank DLS Events, the Kenneth T. and Eileen L. Norris Foundation, and the Adams-Mastrovich Family Foundation for their continued support of Bringing Down the House Los Angeles.

Although we’ve just concluded this year’s program, the Music Forward team is back to work planning for the growth of the program and creating performance and learning opportunities for our ever-growing group of Bringing Down the House alumni. Keep an eye on these remarkable artists and stay tuned for exciting updates to come!

CH Showcase Host Nick Henderson

CH Group Music Marketing

CH Workshop Presentation

CH Class in Session Music Marketing

CH Showcase Kinda Cookin'

CH Showcase Jasmine Marthel

CH Showcase Class of 2019

LV Female Artists

LV Showcase Ruby Denae

LV Workshop Stage Presence

LV Workshop Stage Presence

LV Showcase Mariachi Los Jaguares

LV Class of 2019

LA Sofia Carson w/ Class of 2019

LA Workshop Panel

LA Workshop

LA Showcase After the Millennials

LA Showcase

NOLA Workshop

NOLA Showcase Clay LeBlanc

NOLA Workshop Live Production

NOLA Workshop Panel

NOLA Showcase YungBoyz

NOLA Showcase Blue Crab Redemption

NOLA Showcase Class of 2019

Live Production (Los Angeles)

Hands-On Activity (Los Angeles)

Live Production (Los Angeles)

Class of 2019 with Sofia Carson (Los Angeles)

Special Guest Sofia Carson Q&A (Los Angeles)

Live Production (Los Angeles)

Live Production (Chicago)

Live Production (Chicago)

Live Production (Chicago)

Live Production (New Orleans)

Live Production (New Orleans)

Class of 2019 (New Orleans)

Live Production (Las Vegas)

Live Production (Las Vegas)

Live Production (Las Vegas)

Hands-On Activity (Las Vegas)

Chicago Session Location: House of Blues Chicago

Las Vegas Session Location: House of Blues Las Vegas

Los Angeles Session Location: The Wiltern

New Orleans Session Location: House of Blues New Orleans

Live Production (Los Angeles)

Hands-On Activity (Los Angeles)

Live Production (Los Angeles)

Class of 2019 with Sofia Carson (Los Angeles)

Special Guest Sofia Carson Q&A (Los Angeles)

Live Production (Los Angeles)

Live Production (Chicago)

Live Production (Chicago)

Live Production (Chicago)

Live Production (New Orleans)

Live Production (New Orleans)

Class of 2019 (New Orleans)

Live Production (Las Vegas)

Live Production (Las Vegas)

Live Production (Las Vegas)

Hands-On Activity (Las Vegas)

LOS ANGELES

Stage Presence Panelists:

Cesar Alan – Artist, Cesar Alan

DJ Omega – Artist, DJ Omega

Dylan Dunlap – Artist, On the Grind Management

Bruce Elebee – Founder, BeeHyve Consulting

Justin Emord – Bassist, Love and a .38

Tai Jones – Artist, 2TAI

Session Location: Live Nation Entertainment Hollywood

LAS VEGAS

Stage Presence Panelists:

Aaron Ameen – Talent Buyer, House of Blues Las Vegas

Angel Mendoza – Actor

Brad Ohlson – Band Manager, Incarnate

David Tatlock – Artist, Soul Juice Band

Session Location: House of Blues Las Vegas

CHICAGO

Stage Presence Panelists:

Aminata Burton – Artist, AMI

Ken Burroughs – Management, Podcast

Shantina Lowe – Singer/Songwriter, Shantina Lynet’

Tamika Rennell Smith – Project Manager, Illumivation Studios

Session Location: House of Blues Chicago

New Orleans

Stage Presence Panelists:

Kareem Ratliff – Artist, Instagram

Kemic Smothers – Executive Director, New Orleans Media Arts Institute

Ronjanique Steele –  Brand Manager/Public Relations, SYH Agency

Session Location: House of Blues New Orleans