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Station Space Breaks Ground at King Street Station
“Totem Star is currently working on securing funding to add to the $2.3M already raised. The funds will go primarily towards building Station Space since the City of Seattle will not be charging rent. The new studio will become the main destination for Totem Star members looking to set their musical ideas to tape.”
Read our feature in 206 Zulu titled “Station Space Breaks Ground at King Street Station’" written by Juan Carlos Gallegos.
The article highlights our groundbreaking event at King Street Station. What will be called The Station Space, will be a creative arts hub with the organizations: Red Eagle Soaring, Wh!psmart, The Rhapsody Project, the Jackson Street Music Program, and Totem Star.
Arts groups break ground on new home in Seattle’s King Street Station | The Seattle Times
“For much of the past decade, Totem Star has helped thousands of young artists develop their music from a 225-square-foot recording studio in West Seattle. Now, in a major upgrade, the nonprofit has broken ground on a 2,000-square-foot facility, this time in the heart of the city.”
Click here to read more from our Seattle Times feature!
Read our feature in The Seattle Times article titled "Arts groups break ground on new home in Seattle’s King Street Station" written by Grace Gorenflo.
The article highlights our groundbreaking event on October 13th, 2022 at our new home — King Street Station. The article also features our partner organizations — Red Eagle Soaring, The Rhapsody Project, Jackson Street Music Program, Whipsmart, and the Cultural Space Agency.
Conversations Podcast: Totem Star ft. Daniel Pak and Mirabai Kukathas
“Pak and Mirabai talk about the work being done at Totem Star, how being involved in music and community affects the personal wellbeing and confidence of the youth involved, as well as their new facility coming to King Street Station and the future of the program.”
Listen to our feature in Conversations Podcast titled “Totem Star - Daniel Pak and Mirabai Kukathas’" with Doug Duin.
This podcast interviews co-founder Daniel Pak and Totem Star Artist, Mirabai Kukathas on their work with Totem Star and our move into King Street Station.
Teens Find Their Voice — and Family — at Totem Star
“Working with individual artists has been our framework from the very beginning. We meet each artist where they’re at,” says Pak. From basic software tutorials to promoting an album, Totem Star is there to give each young artist whatever it is they need, regardless of their experience level.” - Daniel Pak
Read our feature in Parent Map’s article titled “Teens Find Their Voice — and Family — at Totem Star’" written by Gemma Alexander.
This article talks about how Totem Star supports their young artists and highlights Totem Star Artist, Mirabai Kukathas’ story.
Artist Spotlight: Sabyu & Ninguyu
'The Giver (Where the Buffalo Roam)' Out Now
Song by Sabyu & Ninguyu (ft. Thaddillac & Skúli Gestsson)
Artwork by Ninguyu
Meet Me Where The Buffalo Roam
Written by Sabyu
“Meet me where the buffalo roam and I’ll give to you all that I hold,
all that I fear, all that I face, and all of those times I thought home was a place...”
In the midst of a pandemic, I found myself writing a song about the mighty buffalo. For years I’d been attending Native American Medicine Wheel teachings and learning about different animals and their inherent power and abilities. I noticed many similarities in values, such as respect for nature and animals, between my indigenous Pacific Islander roots and that of Native American. As the teachings went on, I found much reverence for the buffalo and what it provided to indigenous folks here on Turtle Island - food, shelter, clothing, and ceremony. The buffalo is considered “The Giver” by several Native American tribes because it gave away itself to provide sustenance for the people. During such an uncertain time on our planet, the spirit of giving really struck me.
“...I’ll just tilt my head down, kick my feet on the ground,
clap a thunderous sound, and give away...”
Inspired to write a song in honor of the buffalo, I began strumming a galloping rhythm on my guitar. The rhythm hit me like hooves stomping on the plains. Lyrics and melodies ran through me like a strong wind. This phrase kept racing through my head:
“Meet me where the buffalo roam…”
“Meet me where the buffalo roam and I’ll give you my skin and my bones...”
Giving is a big part of who I am. I give to my family, my partner, my friends, and the young artists I work with. I enjoy giving. With Totem Star, I gave many zoom sessions during the pandemic. I taught guitar, co-wrote songs, recorded instruments, and mixed music for our youth. I even helped two young artists, Mirabai Kukathas and Yung Fuego, release their first full-length albums despite not physically being in the studio together. I connected with many of the young artists and their families during this time and sessions with Totem Star was our common ground.
“Meet me where the buffalo roam and I’ll give you my heart and my soul...”
There are times during Totem Star sessions when young artists simply need a space to get things off their chest. With so much chaos and confusion happening these days, communicating from the heart and soul does wonders. In those moments, I strive to hold space for artists so they can express their authentic selves through their words, music, and stories. Mental health is real, and for many of the young artists, making music is therapy.
Our young artists give to me as well, whether or not they realize it. They give me an opportunity to play music with them. They give me creative freedom while writing songs together. They give me a chance to be a better mentor and teacher. They challenge my musicianship and push my limits as a producer of Hip-Hop, Rock, Pop, Folk, R&B, Punk, Funk, Lo-Fi, Poetry, Musicals, Experimental music and more. As an Artist Mentor, music is what keeps me going too - creating alongside the youth and also writing songs for myself.
“Call me your partner, call me your friend,
and I’ll give to you what is mine once again...”
While creating “The Giver”, the song passed through some incredible hands. My partner, Ninguyu, is a beautifully talented singer/songwriter and helped me complete the song. She drew from her Anishinaabe roots, and painted the breathtaking buffalo artwork herself. So much love and gratitude for her. Thaddeus “Thaddillac” Turner blessed the tune on electric guitar and rips a soulful solo with a hearty tone. Legendary. My bandmate, Skúli Gestsson, laid down a rock solid foundation for us to ride on with his bass. A brilliant musician I can always count on. Rachel Field of Resonant Sound mastered the track and brought out the best in everyone on the record.
Sabyu & Ninguyu honoring the spirit of the buffalo in front of a blanket designed by Eighth Generation Artist, Sonja Holy Eagle (Oglala Lakota)
“I’ve fed my body and nourished my soul,
I’m ready to give, and share my home, so meet me where the buffalo roam”
I learned many lessons throughout the pandemic, and one of them is this: “To take care of others, start by taking care of yourself.” Not in a selfish way, but in a self-sustaining way. In a sacred way. In a way that honors body and spirit. The spirit of the buffalo nourishes itself in order to take care of the people. If we nourish ourselves, we would find that we are contributing to a better world just by being who we are. By giving ourselves the best so we can share the best with others.
From its inception, “The Giver” felt like a song from the heart. This song is my gift to you and from the hands that it’s passed through. Enjoy and share. We have much more to give if we know who we are and where we come from.
A native elder once told me,
“Everyone is indigenous to Mother Earth.”
I thought to myself,
“Now that’s something we can all celebrate.”
Happy Indigenous Peoples Day
Today & Everyday
1neLove,
Sabyu
ABOUT SABYU & ninguyu
Sabyu & Ninguyu are a singer/songwriter duo based out of Olympia, WA. They draw inspiration from their indigenous roots - Pacific Islander & Native American.
Follow more of Sabyu & Ninguyu:
Website / Spotify / Soundcloud / AppleMusic / Instagram / Facebook
Our 2020 Annual Report is out!
We consider our annual report to be a work of art! The beautiful part about creating art is that you can continually edit your drafts while also enjoying and taking in each iteration — enjoying and being present with the process.
Below, we want to share with you all a bit about our process + to give lots of love to our team behind it all!
The Beginning
It started off as an idea which then turned into a mood board + working google doc. We sent our board + doc to our dear family member & fantastic Graphic Designer, Simon Legaspi in October 2020. We wanted the theme to be reflective of how much we shifted to virtual platforms so we included emojis, hashtags, and other elements that reflected the social platforms we were predominantly using (ex: Zoom and Instagram).
Image from: kopetu.ru
Image from: socialmediatoday.com
We received our first draft from Simon — he provided the framework and design and we loved how he turned our mood board to life!
Then we began the editing process! From big to small shifts. We began filling in space, adding more color, layers, and depth into the pages.
About nine drafts later, we finally said -- boom. This is it!
View the full Annual Report Here
THE TEAM
BIG LOVE to the following people who played a huge role in making our annual report come to life:
Simon Legaspi | Annual Report Designer
We are so appreciative of Simon for designing our annual report. Every single page was so thoughtfully created.
Follow his work:
Website: https://legatsbyart.com/
Instagram: @_legatsby
Andrea Dimond | Infographic Designer
Andrea Dimond is the one! Let’s take a moment to look at this beautiful infographic that Andrea designed. This process also started off with a mood board + google doc. Andrea was so thoughtful in taking in our ideas and turning them into a work of art. Thank you for being in this process with us and for designing our very first infographic ever!
Follow her work:
Website: https://dimond-design.com/
Instagram: @dimond.design.beheard
Krista Welch | Board Co-Secretary, Communications Committee Member
Tracey Wong | Communications Manager, Communications Committee Member
Paul Laughlin | Deputy Director, Communications Committee Member
Daniel Pak | Executive Director, Communications Committee Member
Thanks so much for reading!
<3 Totem Star Family
Totem Star Wins Create Action Grant
“With the Sony Create Action grant, Totem Star will support their Studio, Stage and Story programs. The Totem Star Studio program empowers artists to compose and record original songs. The Stage program gives artists an opportunity to perform at open mics that they plan, promote and produce. The Story program is a unique monthly program where youth can attend panels and connect with culturally relevant guest artists and other industry professionals.”
Read our feature in the Sony article titled “Totem Star Wins Create Action Grant’" written by Alpha Universe.
Our organization recently won the Sony Create Action Grant which awarded us $50,000 in cash, a storytelling film created by Sony, and $50,000 in Sony Electronic products that we will use to support our artists in their future work.
Wavelengths Podcast
Listen to our podcast, Wavelengths!
In partnership with Na'ah Illahee Fund, we created a core group of BIPOC youth to discuss meaningful topics within the intersections of our cultures.
Artist Spotlight: FRESA
Photo Credit: @johnny.d.ho
FRESA means strawberry in Spanish, which is fitting to FRESA the R&B artist whose music feels sweet and indulging. With inspirations from Jhene Aiko, SZA, and Ariana Grande, her music is soft and soulful; sounds of love, heartbreak, and everything in between. The Seattle-based singer/songwriter began her interest in music at the ripe age of 7 when she started taking piano lessons and was encouraged to both sing and play at her piano recitals. Throughout her educational years, she continued to perform at local events, social gatherings, and school assemblies.
THE INTERVIEW
What have you been up to while in quarantine? What challenges have you faced? What accomplishments have you been able to celebrate?
This quarantine I have been working really hard on a number of different things. I am on my fourth and final year at Seattle University, and am working towards a double major in Chemistry and Spanish. Within this past year I have also moved from Capitol Hill, to Bellevue, and back to Capitol Hill. Though this quarantine was really difficult because I was not able to see many of my loved ones, the abundance of free time that it gave me allowed me to finally start and finish an entire EP- a project that I’ve wanted to do since freshman year of college. Being in quarantine has allowed me to experience new levels of solitude that lead to self-reflection, exploration, and self-awareness that I have never reached before. This newly found mentality helped me really indulge in songwriting and it became an outlet and a form of therapy for me, and for that I have really valued the time given to me by this quarantine. Though its been a struggle trying to juggle online classes, working, music, and living in a pandemic, I have found that music keeps me motivated and passionate about my work.
Who are some women in the arts that inspire you and why?
Some of the women who are big in the music industry that inspire me are Jhene Aiko, SZA, and Ariana Grande. Through them I discovered the healing powers that music possesses, and I see their art as a form of female solidarity. All of these women have been through really hard times and have managed to embody their emotions and thoughts into their music in such a profound way that not only am I able to feel what they feel when I listen to their music, but I am also able to take their experiences and use them to learn and reflect on what I am going through myself. Even though their lyrics can often be quite simple, they are able to express complex feelings and thoughts through their music that I often have a hard time verbalizing. Their ability to capture and communicate the female perspective in such an artful and relatable way is what I want to be able to do for my listeners through my music. I also wanted to give a shoutout to a couple local female artists that inspire me, such as Talaya, Laureli, Anna Therese, and Pink Anbu (just to name a few)!
What is a current goal of yours that you are working towards this year in 2021?
If we weren’t under quarantine right now, one of my goals would be to be able to perform my new EP — My thoughts when I’m alone. Other than that, I am just looking forward to the release of my EP so that people can see who I am and what I do as an artist. I would love to collaborate with other local artists this year, and I plan to continue writing songs and putting as much music out as possible. Who knows, I might even work on creating a visual for one of my songs! We’ll see where this year takes us.
What are your dreams and hopes for women in the music industry?
My hope for the music industry is that women, especially women of color, become more recognized for their hard work and talent. Often women are underestimated and overshadowed by the industry due to their male peers being placed on a higher pedestal. I would love for female artists to be given the same respect and opportunities as male artists, and to see more POC female faces across the music industry. Representation is so important. I would be so proud to see someone that looks like me (an Asian woman) on the list of top charting artists.
What words of wisdom do you have that you would like to share with women?
The home screen on my phone right now is a quote by the female artist H.E.R.:
“To my women, with the utmost respect,
Intellect, we often forget and neglect Intuition can see through elusive intent
Listen to it”
There are so many layers to this quote and it is applicable to so many different scenarios. I feel like I’ll leave it up to the reader to interpret it how they like.
Name 3 things you love doing!
I love singing (duh!), going out to eat, and sunny days at the beach!
How has Totem Star helped shape you as an individual and as an artist?
Totem Star taught me that you don’t need any crazy big production or complicated process to make music. Music can be made in the comfort of your own home, in a small studio with your homies, or even recorded on a voice memo on your phone. Totem Star was my first ever experience in a recording studio, my first ever experience in a jam session, and the first music community that inspired me to explore who I am as an artist. I am so grateful to Totem Star for how accepting they are of artists- no matter what skill level they are or where they come from. Totem Star is truly one of the safest spaces I have ever been in and I know that will never change.
FRESA
FRESA means strawberry in Spanish, which is fitting to FRESA the R&B artist whose music feels sweet and indulging. With inspirations from Jhene Aiko, SZA, and Ariana Grande, her music is soft and soulful; sounds of love, heartbreak, and everything in between. The Seattle-based singer/songwriter began her interest in music at the ripe age of 7 when she started taking piano lessons and was encouraged to both sing and play at her piano recitals. Throughout her educational years, she continued to perform at local events, social gatherings, and school assemblies. She found herself securing an annual position as one of the musical performing acts for the Seattle University Vietnamese Student Association’s annual Xuan festival. With encouragement from her local community, she eventually landed a spot on the More Music @ The Moore program- a decades old music program that allows up and coming young artists to perform at the renown Moore Theater in Seattle. After completing the program, FRESA began working on her first official music project. While also months away from completing two bachelor’s degrees at Seattle University, FRESA’s debut EP My thoughts when I’m alone is projected to drop March 25, 2021.
Follow FRESA through these platforms!
Instagram // Soundcloud // Spotify // Bandcamp // Apple Music
Looking Back at 2020
Asking the question of 'How are you?' has been a tough one to answer. We've been in quarantine these past 9 months and within that period, we've been protesting for Black lives, for justice, and for equity. We've been seeing the effects of capitalism and how these very systems that we live in do not work for everyone as some families have to work twice as hard or may not even have work. We've been seeing art spaces close and artists losing the spaces that they call their second home. I know it has been a tough and painful year for many of us, but at the same time, there is a shift happening.
"Art is so malleable that it can be used as a form of protest. Tell your stories and raise awareness. Express your pain and oppression. Be bold, Black and proud. Exist and be unapologetic." - Totem Star Artist, AMINA
The shift that we are seeing is happening in all of us. As the youth continually speak their truths, it gives us the strength to do so as well. To reflect, to reevaluate, and to hold ourselves accountable with love and grace.
Thank you family for your continued support. Because of it, Totem Star has been able to support our artists via virtual spaces for nine months now.
Stay safe, prioritize your health especially with winter season, and Happy Holidays to you all! Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts for your support.
2021, we are ready for you!
The youth are the truth.
How can the youth be more at the core of our decision-making?
This year, we created our inaugural Youth Board to further center and put more power back into the community we serve. Our youth board created the name, Totem Star Leadership Collective aka TLC and we are excited to continually build with this next generation of brilliance!
Presenting our Inaugural Youth Board, the TLC!
Image credit: Amy Piñon
Virtual Studio B Session with the family.
Image credit: Tracey Wong
Community.
Our growth happens with community. Continuing to hold virtual spaces that gather us to collectively learn, witness, and grow together.
We are in deep gratitude for the young artists coming through to build in our virtual events
-- Lavender Sessions, Studio B Virtual Sessions, New Vibe Sessions, and #totemstarlive
Accessibility.
While in quarantine, all learning has been virtual. Digital equity and access to the arts for young people for the youth is a priority for us.
This year, we were able to provide our artists with studio equipment such as microphones, audio interfaces, and headphones to elevate our one-on-one remote sessions. We've continued to host The Story online, as well as launching our Studio B Workshop series.
Remote Session with artist mentor Pak and Totem Star artist Zoser. Image credit: Daniel Pak
FRESA performing at the Gates Virtual Concert.
Image from the Gates Foundation Virtual Concert.
Celebrating our 10 years.
Two brilliant musicians, Daniel Pak and Thaddeus Turner started Totem Star as a remote studio that fit in a suitcase. Fast forward ten years and we've gone from just two to a large, ridiculous, supportive family. Thadd and Pak are co-founders of our huge family at Totem Star!
Cheers to a decade of our organization's movement towards our mission and vision of empowering the next generation of young artists. Shout out to the whole Totem Star family for adding so much to our organization and continuing to elevate our work in a holistic way. To our young artists, the Totem Star Leadership Collective, our staff, our board, our committees, and to YOU ALL..we love you!
Thank you so much for being a part of this family and for your continued love and support!
Valuing our artists.
In order to raise the value proposition of the arts we must book and pay our artists for their music, their time, and all of the work they do. We want the youth to see the value and importance in their art.
We are so grateful to have been able to continue our Artist Booking programming while in this pandemic. We've been able to put on concerts and host performances that allow our artists to perform at events in partnership with APACEvotes, Washington Bus, RVC, The Stranger, Keep Music Live, and the Gates Foundation this past year! We have so much love for our partners and community!
Holiday Feast & Jam Session, 2019.
Image credit: Natalie Laughlin
Meet Our Youth Artist Advisory Board!
Introducing our new co-chairs and board members for our inaugural Youth Artist Advisory Board!
We want to center youth voices even more and having our youth be at the center of our decision-making is vital. We are excited to build and grow with our new youth board!
Learn more about our artists, their work, and who they are below and be sure to give them a follow on Instagram as well!
P.S. Election day is next week on Tues, Nov 3rd. Please don’t forget to vote if you are able to!
Mirabai Kukathas is a storyteller. A playwright, spirited conversationalist, and (maybe most importantly) a singer/songwriter, she loves nothing more than telling an absurd story with an honest emotional core.
People often tell Mirabai she was born in the wrong millennium (what with her hippie hair and obsession with folk music) but she’d much rather be in this one, thank you very much, where she can vote and marry who she likes and watch WALL-E for the millionth time. But she does pull plenty of musical inspiration from times past, finding ways to blend 60s folk with contemporary pop and everything in between.
She was born and raised in Seattle, Washington, although she also grew up in her mother’s native Malaysia. A recent graduate of the central district’s Nova High School, a Totem Star artist/youth board chair, a 2 time winner of the Young Playwrights Project, and a finalist for MoPOP’s SoundOff!, her love for and dedication to Seattle and it’s artistic scene are unparalleled. Mirabai’s art is an act of healing; a confusing celebration of her culture, identity, and life. With lots of love, effort, and community, she works to create her own unique sound to tell her own unique story.
Instagram: @mirabai.kukathas
Zoser is a singer/songwriter and music bender. An alluring voice, thoughtful lyrics, and a guitar grounds this Georgia native as he makes his way through the Puget Sound. Zoser's music travels effortlessly between alternative, pop, country, and always strikes the listener's soul.
Instagram: @zoserofficial
Lily Indigo came into the world singing. At the age of ten, she sang on stage with her dad at the Doe Bay Music Festival. Since then she has performed in front of an audience any chance she can get. Lily loves making music because it’s a stress reliever and hopes that her music will connect people together. She is excited to sing her songs to anyone that will listen, as it gives her a chance to combine her two greatest joys in life: music and meeting new people.
Instagram: @lily.indigo
Cobb — Repping out of Rainier Valley in South Seattle, Cobb seeks inspiration to make his music from youth culture in his community. Since 2016, Cobb has released 3 EPs via SoundCloud at www.soundcloud.com/cobbfrom38. While using music as a bridge to stay connected to his community, Cobb hopes to inspire his listeners to live a purposeful life versus being bound to the limitations of modern day society.
Instagram: @justanotherkidfromthesoufend
Grae Violett is singer-songwriter who was born in Nashville, TN but spent her formative years in Washington state, specifically the Seattle area. Being from the South, having parents from NYC, and living in the PNW have led to a lot of road trips where she has had many interesting interactions with the people and places around her. One thing she has learned from travelling cross country is that although we are different, the one thing we all have in common is emotion. Everybody feels, and those feelings lead to amazing stories. A music lover, she considers herself a genre-less artist, but 80s synth pop will always have a special place in her heart. She is extremely excited to share her art with all the beautiful souls out there, and hopes that they will enjoy it.
Instagram: @graedreamer
Instagram: @agentorangetree
Grae Violett Speaks to the Importance of Community
“As an example of Totem Star’s tight-knit culture, Violett cited the organization’s COVID-19 response: an example of Totem Star’s tight-knit culture, Violett cited the organization’s COVID-19 response: Totem Star’s co-Co-founders, Daniel Pak and Thaddeus Turner, immediately checked in on her after the stay-at-home order passed. “They’re calling you—your phone—personally and asking ‘How are you doing? How are you doing, not just as an artist, but as a person? And what can we do to help?’” she said. When she’s older, she noted, “I want to be like that. I never want to be so successful in my career that I forget to give back—and not in a facetious way, but genuinely give back to people.”
Read our feature in the Colorization Collective’s article titled “Grae Violett Speaks to the Importance of Community" written by Anya Shukla.
This article highlights Grae Violett’s artistic work, story, and experience working with Totem Star.
Let the Youth Speak: Statements on Black Liberation
Violence and unjust treatment to the Black community has been an issue for centuries. George Floyd, Ahmaud Arberry, Breonna Taylor, Nina Pop, our very own Shaun Fuhr, and so many more innocent Black people murdered by the police this year further unveiled our country’s deeply rooted systemic racism and anti-Blackness.
Totem Star Artists came together to share some empowering words with our community. Each artist with various backgrounds and important perspectives in sharing their truths with us.
We all have so much power to cultivate the positive change that we want to see. To see a society that better serves our Black communities, that better serves our young people, and that better serves our humanity with true equity & justice for all.
Often times, the change starts with our young people. It starts with us listening to our young people.
We love you all. Let's continue to do the work!
Grae Violett
@graedreamer
“To me, art is a lifestyle. A mentor of mine (and several other smart people) once said that in order to be a good artist, you have to live life. You have to be a good human. Part of being a good human is recognizing when other humans are in pain. For a long time, black pain has been ignored. I’m happy to see that people are finally starting to notice the injustices and inconsistencies in our system.
While I haven’t been able to attend any protests due to distance, I have amplified black voices, including mine, during this time. I’ve spoken up on injustices that I have seen, shared resources and other relevant facts regarding the movement, and most of all, have found time for myself.
If you are a black artist, put yourself first. Don’t feel guilty for needing a mental break from online or offline activism. You’re living the movement just by looking the way you do. You’re protesting just by existing. Your art is relevant and valid and extremely black, simply because you are black. So cut yourself some slack, and remember your importance.
If you’re an NBPOC or white artist, please LISTEN when black people speak. Protesting is wonderful, but please be aware of your actions and if they’re endangering the same people you want to help. Also I know that we’re fighting against black deaths but we’re also fighting for black lives. That includes black joy and black creative expression. So don’t forget to check on your black artistic community, and amplify their work. That means sharing their art, doing the work to make them feel welcome in predominantly white artistic spaces, and GIVING THEM CREDIT. By doing that, you create a more inclusive environment, which means more beautiful art for everyone to enjoy.
Last but definitely not least, please don’t forget to show love to black female artists and black queer artists. We exist, we’re valid, and our black lives MATTER.”
- Grae Violett
AMINA
@minasgallery
“My experience attending protests started very young. I used to go to protests against the annexation of Palestine. I used to protest against gun violence, but it was very detached. Then, I faced a reality that many of our people have faced which forced me to tell my brother's story. I saw how these victims can be overlooked. From a very young age, I knew that when people would gather for a protest, pain and grief would be at the heart of it. I would remind myself that we are here because we are amongst the lucky ones. We are privileged to have another day. We must voice the stories and memories of the victims. It’s their right that they have over us, to make sure whatever happened to them never happens again. My emotions fluctuate, but I always shake at a protest. The adrenaline and anger that I feel. The grief and pain in my heart. It’s important that we (youth) are there because it is happening also to us. We can’t detach ourselves. We are the truth.
Our voices have power and we have seen proof of this through our art and social media presence. We are the target because we are the future. Mobilizing can be done in more ways than before and the youth are the ones who are finding new ways. We have to be there and show up.
As an artist, I have been grateful for the opportunities that I had with community spaces. This where people gather and listen. Art is so malleable that it can be used as a form of protest. Tell your stories and raise awareness. Express your pain and oppression. Be bold, Black and proud. Exist and be unapologetic. As a Black Muslim woman, my art and poetry is political by default because my mere existence is political. Me having a voice and being bold, unapologetic, and proud of who I am, shakes white supremacists because they want us locked up so bad. They want to put the chains on and hold the key. Singing has always been a part of the movement.
Through struggle, songs of liberation were sung throughout the fields and throughout the streets. It will still be sung for generations more until it is replaced by songs of freedom and success.
My one advice to my fellow Black folks, don’t forget to heal your vessel. Our souls will always feel for the movement and our brothers and sisters. Wounded soldiers who tend to their wounds, will fight harder and better than wounded soldiers who continue with wounds that aren’t cared for. Be gentle on yourself. Be kind to one another. If you need to walk away from an argument, then do it for your peace of mind. You didn’t lose, you won because you chose yourself.
KIDDUS FECTO
@kiddusfecto
“During times like these, I feel it’s very important to speak on things that are affecting society such as police brutality and the injustices in America. I’m an African American male witnessing my people deal with police brutality in the media and it’s maddening. We don’t deserve the mistreatment these pigs are giving us and we shouldn’t tolerate it any longer. We have to come together and stop fighting one another because at the end of the day, we’re fighting the same enemy. THE SYSTEM. In order to do that we must treat each other better and support one another.” - Kiddus Fecto
FRESA
@biansayy
“My experience at the protests has been absolutely life changing. The feeling of such a large mass of people uniting together in one place to fight for an issue we all believe in gave me chills the first time I experienced it. It’s so moving and empowering to be a part of such a historic thing. I think it’s important for our youth to be involved in these protests because the children are the future of our society.
Our kids are gonna be the governors, presidents, and mayors of our future and it’s important for them to be involved in the communities around them. By attending these protests, these kids and teens gets to experience first hand the power and beauty of a community as a whole, they get to see just how important issues like the Black Lives Matter movement are.
I think at this current time, it’s important for us artists to do two things: 1) use our voice and our art to speak on these subjects and 2) really take a look at how Black music and culture has influenced our own craft. Black culture is by far one of the most influential when it comes to creative outlets such as music, art, and poetry. It influences us in ways that we might not even realize. Google a list of music genres that Black people created, and the list will name almost every genre you could possible think of. This time should be used to not only educate ourselves on how we are influenced by Black art, but also to use our voice and speak out in support of Black communities.
To my non-Black friends, this includes all POC, it is important not to become complacent with the state things are in right now. We cannot allow complacency to take over as we sit in the safety of our homes, thinking that these issues do not apply to us. Because as a race we are human, and any issues that affects one group of humans should be a threat to all humans. Just posting a hashtag or donating a few dollars and then calling it a day is a prime example of privilege. And yes, even POC can have levels of privilege. Our Black brothers and sisters don’t get to post a story and then go home and call it a day. This is their life every single day, and we have to realize that. It is our job to use our privilege and our voice to talk to those around us. We need to talk to our relatives, our friends, our neighbors about why Black Lives Matter. Our role is to educate and spread information so that everyone understands exactly what we are fighting for.”
- FRESA
Aurelio Valdez
@aurelioxvaldez
“Art right now is CRUCIAL. As someone who benefits entirely from Black culture and who has learned a lot through my mentors who identify as part of the Black diaspora, the music I make will always be in solidarity and support for Black liberation!”
- Aurelio Valdez
Pink Anbu:
@sarah2pink_
“every drop of water makes the waves stronger.
i feel like i'm not in the position to speak as an expert, but listening amplifies. there's many things to be done, and we must start with and within ourselves. change starts with you, and i catch myself at my own ignorance at times, but we all have to check ourselves. it is ok to grow and learn from someone else's perspective. knowledge is gold!
but do what you want to, and ask yourself what you are fighting for.
is it equal rights and love? defunding the police and reallocating funding to the education system and the community? intentions show so make sure you do it because you want to, not because you have to. and above all else, do it with love!
remember Black Lives matter!
And always have.
Respect the Black community, respect POC communities, and respect those who dont dont come from the same background as you. Love conquers all and we must act with love.
and also, justice.”
- Pink Anbu
Totem Star offers online music programs to youth in response to COVID-19
“With all sessions becoming digital, it has become easier for artists outside of the Greater Seattle area to participate in programs. Since closing their doors in March, Pak has brought in a singer/song writer from Auburn and reconnected with an alumni who is currently studying abroad in Holland.”
Read our feature in City of Seattle’s Art Beat Blog titled “Totem Star offers online music programs to youth in response to COVID-19’" written by Erika Lindsay.
This article talks about how Totem Star responses to the beginning stages of the COVID-19 lockdown. We took all of our in-person programs and brought them online!
Art Beat Blog: Totem Star offers online music programs to youth in response to COVID-19
Photo Credit: Avi Loud
Check out City of Seattle’s Art Beat article titled "Totem Star offers online music programs to youth in response to COVID-19" written by Erika Lindsay featuring Totem Star Artists Totem Star Co-Founder Daniel Pak.
The article highlights Pak's history, how he came to stating Totem Star, and also discusses his work with Kore Ionz including their latest video release "Superhero."
Below is a snippet of the Crosscut article by JaLynn Montes:
"Daniel Pak has been making music for the good part of his 37 years on the planet. While on hiatus from his studies in metallurgical engineering and on a visit with friends, he had an epiphany: music was meant to be the center of his life’s work.
He was feeling 'sick and tired of seeing the status quo,' he says, 'with oppression and violence being so pervasive; it [was] maddening.'
Music, he figured, would connect him 'with like-minded people who really want change to happen.'
So he rejected an attractive offer to work as a high-paid nuclear engineer at Pearl Harbor on the island of Oahu, where Pak was raised. Instead, he chose to pursue a career as an artist, or, as he puts it, 'a culture worker.'"
Check out the entire article at Crosscut.com.
Totem Star shines for youth artists during COVID-19
“Although it’s tough to be confined in our homes with less physical accessibility and interaction, we always encourage our young artists to keep making art,” Pak said. “To keep writing. To keep telling their story. And if they’re feeling scared or anxious, to be assured that we all are. Writing, singing, rapping, and creating music may just be the best medicine.”
Read our feature in the International Examiner titled “Totem Star shines for youth artists during COVID-19’" written by Ronnie Estoque.
This article highlights Totem Star’s response to the COVID-19 lockdown and how we transitioned our in-person programming to online.
Totem Star music flourishes over digital airwaves and across generations
“It had been months since the half dozen young artists on the call had seen one another, months since Totem Star, a recording studio and music workshop for youth, shut its 250-square-foot space to protect against the deadly coronavirus. But closed doors are no match for the internet, or for the family-of-choice that Totem Star helped create.”
Read our feature in Real Change News titled “Totem Star music flourishes over digital airwaves and across generations’" written by Ashley Archibald.
This article speaks on Totem Star’s quick response to the COVID-19 lockdown.
We are taking our programming online in response to COVID-19
Dear Totem Star Family:
How you doing? What a crazy time we’re living in right now. Hope you're healthy and safe and are able to take good care of everyone close to you. Sending you so much love!
Although our recording studio has been shut down since March 9 we've found many creative ways to take our programming online to continue mentoring and building community with our young artists. Arts education and youth development are essential services, and we're doing all we can to keep #totemstarlive!
Here are some of the things we’ve implemented:
Remote Sessions
One-on-one meetings with our artists via any mobile/online platform accessible to them (e.g. Instagram, Zoom, Google Hangouts, etc.)
The Remote Studio: Our core program, The Studio, is now online! Artists can now work one-on-one with our teaching artists on songwriting, vocal technique, beatmaking, mixing, music business, and more, all online!
New Artist Onboarding: New artists can now do orientations and onboarding online as we continue to build our community of artists through the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order.
Virtual Studio B
Weekly group sessions facilitated by our teaching artists providing communal space for artists to drop-in and build community through collaboration, paramount to Totem Star’s mission and vision.
Breakout Rooms: There are often so many artists in Virtual Studio B at any given time (so much fun but sometimes chaotic!) that we've learned to utilize "breakout rooms" on platforms like Zoom so smaller groups of artists can be in separate chat rooms to collaborate on projects distraction-free.
Online Events
Open Mic Night: Last Friday, we held our very first virtual open mic on Instagram Live! Thank you to everyone who tuned in to #totemstarlive to support our artists' performances! Be sure to follow us on Instagram @totemstar and be on the lookout for the next open mic in April!
The Story: We are moving our monthly talk series with guest artists and music industry professionals to Instagram Live! In these intimate sessions our guests will share what it was like when they were young aspiring artists and creatives trying to navigate the illusive music industry. Every session ends with Q&A.
Freestyle Fridays (exact name TBD!): Every Friday night, we’ll be providing virtual space for artists to get together to cypher and share their latest ideas with one another. It's so important to create space for young artists to perform and be inspired by each other.
These are confusing times, but we are still moving forward. Although it’s tough to be confined in our homes with less physical accessibility and interaction, we always encourage our young artists to keep making art. To keep writing. To keep telling their story. And if they’re feeling scared or anxious, to be assured that we all are. Writing, singing, rapping, and creating music may just be the best medicine.
Let’s all keep connected through these unprecedented times and use technology to cultivate a culture of community and connectivity. Follow us @totemstar, tune in for our online events, comment during our virtual gatherings to show support and love, and keep encouraging young folx to create art and collaborate with one another to stay inspired. Consider becoming a monthly donor to keep them going! Check out totemstar.org for more details!
We can all support young people through this. As one family!
Much love and aloha,
Daniel Pak
Co-Founder / Executive Director