How We Began

In July 2010, a mobile recording studio based in South Seattle released a compilation created by an unlikely group of new artists: youth just released from juvenile detention. The album was the result of a six-week work training program during which the youth were encouraged to make sense of what was happening to them on the streets. Former Mayor Michael McGinn was so moved by the stories of the youth that he invited them to visit his office at Seattle City Hall, calling his entire staff into the conference room for a listening party.

What was intended to be a one-off project slowly grew into a nonprofit organization through partnerships with organizations like the Juvenile Rehabilitation Administration, the Office of Arts & Culture, and the Jubilation Foundation. Totem Star is now a diverse community of young recording artists building life skills in communication, collaboration, and critical thinking through their creative pursuits in music production and performance.

Where We Are Now

And now, fourteen years and over 5,000 young recording artists later, Totem Star has now achieved the biggest milestone to date: Building a state-of-the-art recording studio and new home at historic landmark King Street Station, which opened in October 2023.

How We Got The Name

“People still ask to this day what Totem Star means. I remember the morning at Thadd’s house when he and founding board member Brian Myers talked at the dining table while I cooked us breakfast. Thadd loved the word “totem”—the symbolic representation of one’s ancestry, culture, and roots. Where you come from. Brian loved the word “star,” and would soon after name his firstborn son Polaris after the North Star. To us, the meaning of “totem star” is simply to know where you come from, and to strive to be the best version of yourself.” - Daniel Pak, Co-Founder & Executive Director of Totem Star

Totem Star. Keeping kids off the streets, in the studio, and on the stage since 2010.

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