On this episode, MHD speaks with music icon, Patrice Rushen about her journey as a youth learning and performing music to becoming one of the most accomplished musicians in the world. She shares insights into how her musical education started in her early childhood and why it is important to continue to invest in youth arts education today.

Patrice Rushen is an award-winning musician, composer, and one of the most sought-after artists in the music industry. A classically trained pianist, she gained fame in the '70s and '80s with her fusion of jazz, pop, and R&B, including the hit "Forget Me Nots." A four-time Grammy nominee, Rushen has composed scores for film and television and served as the first female musical director for major award shows like the Grammys and Emmys. Renowned as a top jazz pianist, she has performed with legends like Stevie Wonder and Herbie Hancock. She has also held prominent academic roles, including as the Ambassador of Artistry in Education at Berklee College of Music and Chair of the Popular Music Program at USC's Thornton School of Music. Additionally, she works with various organizations to support music education and mentorship for underprivileged youth.

Resources:

www.patricerushen.com

www.music.usc.edu/patrice-rushen

www.college.berklee.edu/people/patrice-rushen

Community Announcements:

Hire LA’s Youth Program

Job programs available include:

• LA:RISE Youth Academy which provides 250 hours of work experience for housing insecure Angelenos between the age of 18 an 30.
• LA Community College-City Pathways an internship program designed to provide college students with invaluable exposure to wide range of career opportunities available with the City
• Summer Night Lights program which hires young people ages 16 to 24 to coordinate activities at our participating parks and recreation centers
• To view the full list of available programs and to apply, visit hirelayouth.com

South LA Pride 

• Save the date for South L.A. Pride Saturday, July 13th from 12 pm to 8 pm at the Michelle and Barack Obama Sports Complex
• Event will include live performances, food, shopping and more
• South LA Pride Committee is still accepting applications for vendors and volunteers
• For more information visit southlapride.com

Council District 8 Resources:

www.mhdcd8.com

www.instagram.com/mhdcd8

www.facebook.com/mhdcd8