TOTEM STAR

In 2010 I co-founded Totem Star with Thaddeus Turner so that young artists would have a safe and encouraging space to record music, perform, and build community. We started off as a mobile operation, packing our recording studio into a suitcase and setting it up across the city at spaces like Rainier Community Center, Northwest African American Museum, Metrocenter YMCA, and Aki Kurose Middle School. What felt real good was that young people with dreams of recording their own songs in a studio was now possible. What didn't feel good was when our short-term contracts ended, we wouldn't see the kids anymore, and we'd sometimes hear about them getting in trouble again. Something had to change.

The youth needed a space. When the streets and even the stress at home was just too much, what they needed was a sanctuary to relax, be creative, and be around a community of positive people. In 2013 we made the move to Youngstown Cultural Arts Center and opened our first brick-and-mortar to the community. With the Thelma Dewitty Theater just across the hall, we could also host the open mics and showcases we had always been talking about.

Today Totem Star has three core programs: The Studio, The Stage, and The Story. Young artists get to book after school recording sessions, perform at events they help produce, and receive mentorship from touring artists and music industry professionals. It's love, respect, and family vibes every day at the studio. Transformation is daily practice. And in November 2023 we hit our biggest milestone to date: Opening the doors to our new 2,000 sq ft state-of-the-art recording studio at historic landmark King Street Station.

Check out the Totem Star official website to read artist bios, listen to some dope music, and bask in the beauty of youth culture. The youth always remind us to "respect the vibes." We all should.

Photos by Avi Loud