A Documentary About Music, Mentorship, and the Power of Youth Voice
Rebel Songs
THE STORY
Rebel Songs, at its core, is about the power of the artistic process. It shows the joys, frustrations, and transformations that happen when people have the courage to pursue artistic expression.
The film follows a group of young people enrolled in the Rebel Song Academy, a 12-week songwriting program that connects young people of diverse background with local musicians. Rebel Songs follows three young artists from their first writing sessions, to recording in a professional studio, and, finally, performing live on a stage in front of hundreds of people.
In a world that often sidelines young artists, Rebel Songs film shines a spotlight on what’s possible when creativity and mentorship intersect. The young artists blossom from shy and nervous, to outgoing, motivated, and joyful. They learn to be vulnerable and push themselves, learning that failure is an opportunity for growth and that their thoughts and feelings can impact others.
The Faces Behind the Music
Sam
A budding poet navigating self-doubt and self-discovery. He came in as a loner, but through sound and story, was able to break down his walls. The courage to perform helps him find connection.
Daviana
A creative that brings warmth, wit, and an undeniable spark to every room she enters. She pushes past lives obstacles to find deeper meaning through art.
Akilah
A powerful vocalist finding strength in her story. After moving from Chicago to Kansas City with her mom, she faced the isolation of starting over—spending long hours in her room, drawn to poetry and Buddhist philosophy.