BARS

Above & Beyond: Jaylon Ford

Jaylon Ford is a J.W. Sexton High School graduate, talented rapper, and vocalist.

As a creative with fresh ideas, a dope voice, the intellect and the dedication to see his gifts forge a bright future for himself, Jaylon is a light within the AOTA community.

We’re honored to have been a part of his growth through B.A.R.S. It’s exciting to imagine all the good coming his way in 2022!

Take a moment and salute this gem of a human being! |AOTA

B.A.R.S.: Collaboration 2.0

What are your main tips and habits to foster better collaboration?

Our current cohort of artists in our B.A.R.S. (Beats and Rhymes Sessions) class talked about understanding each other’s perspectives and opinions.

Being perceptive makes it easier to know why and how people work creatively.

Everyone in B.A.R.S. is learning that collaboration happens in the studio and outside of the studio. | AOTA

B.A.R.S.: Collaboration

Our current cohort of artists in our B.A.R.S. (Beats and Rhymes Sessions) class are learning that collaboration happens in the studio and outside of the studio.

We talked about how understanding each other’s perspectives and opinions makes it easier to know why and how people work creatively.

What are your main tips and habits to foster better collaboration?

Also, the record that we’re currently crafting is on another level! | AOTA

The Player: Build New Bonds

“AOTA has helped me express myself creatively and build new bonds”

Anthony “AJ” Jones AKA The Player is an aspiring MC who could very well be on everyone’s radar in the next couple of years. 

Following up his debut recording of “Eyes of The Famous” for our B.A.R.S (Beats and Rhymes Sessions) program, it was clear that AJ has the juice.

His first time on stage was performing at the Wharton Center for our “Be In The Room” AOTA showcase. 

[He’s] a natural on the microphone; so natural there was no indication that this was his first experience rocking in front of a crowd. It was like a switch flipped and he went from all nerves to all out.

The Player spazzed for a solid 32 bars of rapid fire, clearly articulated, verbal gymnastics while we all stood in amazement of the transformation. It was like watching Clark Kent hit the booth and come out as Superman! 

We’re proud of Anthony and his Fresh Class comrades.  They have created a community with each other, [and] that makes us proud as facilitators to see [it]. It’s rich in talent, potential and support.

Help us continue to provide young artists in Lansing, MI with healthy community, meaningful relationships, and skill and character-building opportunities through Hip-hop.

Your financial donations are making an impact.