Rebirth of Sound: A Studio for Hope & Healing
- Jun 4
- 2 min read
The Rebirth of Sound; FREE TO DREAM™’s signature music rehabilitation program, has entered a powerful new chapter, finding a home with a younger generation of participants. The highly acclaimed initiative has officially launched at Barry J. Nidorf Juvenile Hall, bringing creativity, healing, and opportunity to system-impacted youth.
On March 18, Scott Budnick, film producer and founder of the Anti-Recidivism Coalition, joined Common and a group of dedicated program mentors to introduce the first cohort, 14 young men, ages 17 to 21, to the transformative power of music.
At the heart of the experience was a state-of-the-art recording studio, equipped with professional-grade instruments and technology, including piano, guitar, and a full soundboard; everything found in a high-quality music production environment. The session quickly evolved into more than just a tour; it became a moment of connection. The young men shared their personal stories, exchanged laughter, and spoke openly about their aspirations. In an environment often defined by restriction, the studio offered something rare: freedom of expression and a sense of belonging.
This program is led by a team of accomplished and dedicated instructors, each bringing a unique depth of experience. Robert Howard is an expert group facilitator, conflict mediator, and restorative justice specialist, known for his work in culture and inclusion training. Terence Jarone Harden, formerly known as Bad Lucc, began as an LA-based rapper and member of the hip hop group Dubb Union alongside Soopafly and Damani, and now serves as a creative executive through Good Lucc TV and Think Watts Global Management. Erik “Blu2th” Griggs is a Grammy-nominated producer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist, as well as an Emmy and Song of the Year Award winner. He is recognized for co-writing and co-producing the hit “No Air,” working with legends like Aretha Franklin, and collaborating with artists such as Anderson .Paak and Eminem as part of Dr. Dre’s in-house production team.
Designed specifically for individuals impacted by the justice system, the Rebirth of Sound program leverages music as a tool for emotional healing and self-discovery. By fostering creativity and collaboration, it creates pathways for participants to reconnect with themselves and envision new futures.
The day concluded with powerful freestyle performances by Common and JJ ‘88 (Songs From The Hole), whose words resonated deeply with the group, leaving a lasting impression and reinforcing the program’s message: their dreams, voices and futures matter and can transform their lives.
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