The Sound of Change Starts Here: April 2025 YEAH! UPDATES
Youth voices don’t just spark revolutions— they help us to see the world more clearly. When young people speak, they remind us what truth, courage, and possibility really sound like.
We’ve seen firsthand how music empowers youth to find their voice, their purpose, and their people. At YEAH!, we’re creating space for connection, confidence, and courage to express oneself authentically. Scroll down to see what’s been happening, what’s coming up, and how you can be a part of it all. * Traducción al español AQUÍ
Jason Isbell Ticket Donation
We are so grateful to Jason Isbell and his team for donating tickets to his solo acoustic shows at The Pinnacle in Nashville. Because of their generosity, 12 families experienced the magic—some learning about him and the kind of music he plays for the very first time. These weren’t just seats in a venue. They were moments of inspiration, discovery, and belonging. Thank you, Jason and Traci from TT Management, for reminding us that artists can uplift the next generation just by opening the doors. Catch him at Shoals Fest Oct 11-12.
AMP UP YEAH! Pledge Drive & Stream-A-Thon Update
From April 1–7, we streamed, we sang, we pledged—and we’re not done yet! Our limited edition t-shirt and tote bag (designed by Music Valley Archive) are still available until April 20. Grab yours HERE. Every purchase helps us reach our $6,000 goal to keep music access equitable. In hard times, music becomes a lifeline. Our programs give youth a place to be seen, heard, and celebrated. With your help, we can keep that going.
Jeff (Ow!) Andrews Memorial Scholarship
Created in honor of the late Jeff Andrews—a powerhouse in the underground metal scene and a friend to many—this scholarship celebrates his life, music, and incredible heart. Jeff was a longtime musician who, despite lifelong stage fright, never stopped performing with passion and vulnerability. Recommended by YEAH! instructor John Judkins, this scholarship has already raised over $2,600, funding two YEAH! Rocks campers and two Rock Block students each year. Thank you to everyone who has donated in his memory. Your support turns legacy into opportunity.
YEAH! Rocks Camp – Deadline May 9
Registration and scholarship applications are now open for our 2025 YEAH! Rocks summer camp! From June 9–14 at Nashville Prep, youth ages 6–17 will dive into a week of instrument instruction, songwriting, band practice, and creative workshops—culminating in a final live showcase at Third Man Records' Blue Room on June 14th. Today is the final day to get the early-bird discount of $50 off registration, so sign up now!
We’re also thrilled to share that the Find Your Light Foundation, founded by Josh Groban, awarded YEAH! a $3,000 grant to support camp operations and fund four full scholarships. We’re especially grateful knowing that much of their giving this year has gone toward wildfire relief in California. Thank you, FYLF, for investing in the future of music and the voices of Nashville’s youth.
Take Action: Support Arts & Culture Funding
We need your voice now more than ever. Congress is considering cuts that would impact youth access to the arts. Through our Arts Action Center, you can send a letter to your representatives to protect funding for the NEA, NEH, and IMLS.
When young people advocate, leaders listen. Encourage the youth in your life to speak up—and share how music has shaped their journey. Their voices are powerful. Let’s amplify them together.
Cada Estudiante Valorado
During our AMP UP YEAH! Stream-A-Thon, we were honored to premiere Cada Estudiante Valorado, a music video celebrating language, culture, and student expression in Metro Nashville Public Schools and their guiding belief: Every Student Known. Recorded at Ocean Way Studios, this powerful piece features Spanish-speaking students—including YEAH! alum Gaby—raising their voices in pride and unity.
Special thanks to MNPS Visual and Performing Arts Director Franklin Willis and luthier Manuel Delgado of Delgado Guitars for helping make this vision a reality. Their dedication shows what’s possible when youth are given space to shine.
Let’s keep amplifying youth voices — in every language and on every stage. Watch the video here!
Summer Master Class: Songwriting Camp
Creative Girls Rock is hosting a free summer songwriting camp for teen girls to develop their skills and express themselves creatively. The goal is to provide a fun, supportive environment where young female musicians can explore their creativity and develop their songwriting skills. Just a few spots left. Register today!
THANK YOU!
We’re sending a big THANK YOU to some incredible partners who are helping us create more access to music, creativity, and community support in Middle Tennessee!
Nashville Prep — Proud host of this year’s YEAH! Rocks Music Camp! This dedicated school not only opened its doors for camp but also continually uplifts its students by supporting music education and enrichment.
The Blue Room — A long-time supporter of YEAH!, they’re hosting this year’s camp showcase (June 14th - mark your cal!) and recently also accepted donations for YEAH! during their Record Store Day celebration at Third Man Records. Their generosity helps amplify youth voices and support our programs. Get tickets to our showcase here.
Guerilla Bizkits — More than just a (delicious) vegan biscuit shop — they’re fierce advocates for Nashville’s trans community. From post-op care kits to publishing a Trans Solidarity Handbook with The Nashville Trans Solidarity Project, their work is rooted in radical care and mutual aid.
Bates Nursery — A Nashville gem in the plant world — and our tech heroes during the Streamathon! Not only did they provide our streaming platform, but their team member (and big YEAH! fan!) Tyler stepped up to provide technical assistance that made the event shine.
Be sure to check out all these awesome Nashville organizations doing great work across our city!