Koeppell McDade

Teaching Artist

Koeppell is a teaching artist in the Youth Music Program

Eight months after his release from the California Youth Authority (CYA), McDade joined Give a Beat’s “On a New Track” Reentry Mentoring Program (under his Pelligroso alias), which gave him a focused path for his musical endeavors. Later, the hip-hop DJ/ artist was signed to Give a Beat Records, releasing his single “Street Poetry.”

A fan of music since his youth, McDade says he found early inspiration in “Drumline,” the 2002 coming-of-age film, co-produced by mega-producer Dallas Austin. Says McDade, “I fell in love with the snare drum.” And a lifetime of creativity was to follow.

During his time in the CYA, music was his therapy. It gave him a voice during a difficult time, but it also gave him a touchstone for a creative future beyond the bars. 

In addition to his own music pursuits, Pelligroso has found a way to give back to the community. As a Teaching Artist in Give a Beat’s Youth Music Production and DJ Program, Pelligroso lends his talents to under-represented neighborhoods and enhances the opportunity for youths to discover their own creativity.

Though he’s experienced a lot and accomplished plenty, Koeppell McDade’s journey is far from finished. He has shown how one can take the promise of his own artistic talent, combine it with purpose-driven community action and forge a brighter future from the two.