OTN Rome
Finding Voice, Vision, and Vulnerability Through Music
CCI Session 3 2025
When OTN Rome first joined the Prison Electronic Music Program, he kept mostly to himself—quiet, reserved, carefully watching his surroundings. As one of the youngest in the group, he initially held back, unsure of how much of himself to share. But everything started to shift on the second day, during a workshop on brand and business development.
That day, Rome began opening up about his vision. He spoke passionately about the name he had chosen for himself—OTN Rome—with “OTN” representing an acronym tied to his upbringing and community. For him, this wasn’t just about DJing. It was about building something bigger: a brand that would encompass DJing, beat-making, rapping, and even his own merchandise. He saw himself as a full creative entrepreneur, and in sharing that vision, something unlocked.
Throughout the weeks that followed, Rome blossomed into one of the most engaged participants. With the guidance of DJ Sky N-D-N, an older classmate who took him under his wing, he built confidence not only in his music, but in his ability to connect with others. What started as cautious observation transformed into curiosity, camaraderie, and contribution.
One of the most pivotal moments came during a visit from guest artist Zack Fox. Rome lit up, asking thoughtful questions about the music industry, taking notes, and soaking in every bit of insight. It was the most open and energized he had been throughout the entire program, a clear sign of how deeply he was investing in his future.
Another breakthrough came during a class discussion on the roots of house music and the inclusive communities that shaped it—namely Black, brown, and queer creatives. At first, Rome expressed discomfort*, but through a brave and respectful dialogue, something shifted. As he later reflected, “We had some really deep conversations in this class. I got some feedback from people I would never talk to on the yard that really made me think. I take my experience in this class with me for the rest of my life. I feel a lot more open-minded.”
*Prejudiced attitudes are often reinforced in carceral settings, where group dynamics and institutional structures can deepen social divisions. This makes moments of cross-cultural dialogue and openness, like those experienced in this program, all the more meaningful.
This environment, crafted intentionally by teaching artists Esseance and Chaz, became a safe space where Rome could access a level of vulnerability he had never experienced before. That openness carried into his music. On graduation day, his DJ set told a story through sound: a seamless, emotionally rich mix that reflected his life, his roots, and the new possibilities he had discovered.
Now, OTN Rome is setting his sights on a future where he is more than a DJ—he’s a visionary artist and entrepreneur. His time in the program didn’t just teach him how to mix tracks. It gave him the space and the tools to imagine a different kind of life. And he’s running with it.
Help us create more spaces where young people like OTN Rome can discover their voice, build community, and envision a future beyond the prison walls. Donate today.
