Have you ever listened to a song and thought, “These lyrics really speak to me”? Music can be a therapeutic tool capable of channeling feelings one might not be able to articulate, especially for kids. That’s why the Sound It Out campaign is using the power of music to help parents and caregivers start important conversations with their children about mental health.
The campaign website — SoundItOutTogether.org — offers free expert-vetted resources to guide conversations surrounding topics like anger, loss, and racism, with an emphasis on reaching caregivers in Black and Hispanic/Latinx communities. The campaign also features a new album with exclusive music and interviews from recording artists KAMAUU, Tobe Nwigwe, Lauren Jauregui, and Empress Of. With the guidance of mental health experts, the artists spoke to middle schoolers, translating their emotions and experiences into new songs designed to help unlock conversations between kids and their caregivers.
“The most impressionable minds of any group of people are the minds of children. In America, the most systematically attacked and targeted community is the ‘Black’ community,” explained KAMAUU in a press release. “I was drawn to participate and be a part of this project in the name of self-preservation. In doing what I can to help the youth and parents (fathers and mothers), I can help create a better community for myself and for my future children,” he continued.
The album is available now across all major streaming platforms and the campaign website, along with free resources to guide conversations.
