Prison Electronic Music Program

Give a Beat's Prison Electronic Music Program operates in six California state prisons: California Correctional Institution (CCI), California Institution for Women (CIW), California State Prison, Los Angeles County (LAC), Kern Valley State Prison (KVSP), North Kern State Prison (NKSP), and Wasco State Prison (WSP). This work is made possible through a partnership with the California Arts Council's Arts in Corrections program and CDCR's Rehabilitative Investment Grants for Healing and Transformation (RIGHT grant).

Since 2019, Give a Beat has delivered the Prison Electronic Music Program inside California state prisons, providing incarcerated participants with music production and DJing skills that foster inspiration, empowerment, and personal agency. In environments defined by isolation and division, our program offers something rare: hope. Participants engage in hands-on creative practice using industry-standard equipment and software, developing technical skills alongside music history education, brand and business development, and entrepreneurial and transferable life skills.

Music serves as both a creative outlet and a powerful connector. Each class opens and closes with facilitated circles that deepen emotional self-awareness, encourage critical thinking, and promote self-expression as tools for healing and personal growth. The camaraderie that develops through shared creative practice breaks down racial barriers, reshapes how participants relate to one another and to staff, and contributes to meaningful culture shifts within facilities that make them safer.

The skills acquired through our program serve a dual purpose: enriching participants' lives during their time of incarceration and preparing them for a successful reentry. By imparting these skills, the Prison Electronic Music Program supports a transformative cycle of change that instills lasting inspiration, empowerment, and contributes to reducing recidivism.

Digital & Technical Literacy
Music as a Mood-Shifter, Peace Builder, Tool for Conflict Resolution
Positive Social Groups

Curriculum Pillars

Music History

House, Techno, Hiphop, Dub
Protest music, Chicano movement music
Jazz, blues, indigenous music
Business & Branding Skills

Social media
Personal Brand Creation
Networking
Music Deals
Event production
Roles of DJ and Producer
DJ Skills & Equipment

Music Theory
Music Software
History of DJ Equipment
MIDI, Drum Machine, Synthesizer, Sampler, Autotune
Music for Personal Transformation

Healing
Reflection
Creative Expression
Building Community

In Their Own Words

"I feel like a new person when I'm in here. Music is a passion, a therapist, a place for peace."

— John Dough_4
"I haven't been this motivated in a LONG time. I'm just one class away from my business degree, and with this experience in this class, I feel like I can start my record label again. I didn't think any of that was possible anymore!"

— DJ Speed
"I feel like a human"
"I've loved music my whole life. This class really helped to show me that I can actually do this and how much I can keep growing. My son loves music too. I'm definitely getting a setup when I get out. I definitely want to be a better dad, and this is going to help."

— DJ A-God
"I give this class an A+++. My favorite takeaway: community. This is such a great vibe in here with you all, this is what I want to build on the streets. I want to pay this forward."

— DJ K.Foreign
"I already feel like I got new family."

— K
"What a gift to have you all come in here and respect us. You make us feel real. There's human to human contact. I never realized what a social tool all this is. Now that I know I can actually do this, I want to be known for something different. I usually don't talk to anybody else around here, but in here I can actually be myself, and we're actually connecting with each other. It's a beautiful thing."

— DJ Salvo
"I feel happy, I feel optimistic about learning new things, new technology, and being creative, but I'm most excited about learning more about myself."

— DJ Ol Skool
"I’ve been down since 1984 and music is the only thing that's helped me serve my time. All this technology is new to me but I'm excited to be in this class doing something I love."
"It feels like we're not in prison when we're in here. This is definitely one of the best classes I've ever had."
"I'm usually a stressed guy, I don't smile much. But this class is like therapy to me. I've done a lot of programs and this is the one I look forward to the most. I've learned that I'll never stop learning no matter what I'm going through."

— DK Miyagi

Stories from Our Blog

Blog

Give a Beat Hosts Zack Fox as Guest Artist for DJ Workshop at California State Prison

Zack Fox joined Give a Beat’s Prison Electronic Music Program as a Guest Artist, bringing humanity, healing, and hope through music.

The Power of Music at Give a Beat: Transforming Lives at Los Padrinos

Discover how Give a Beat's Youth Music Production & DJ Program at Los Padrinos transforms lives through the power of music. By fostering creativity, collaboration, and personal growth, we empower youth impacted by the justice system to express themselves and envision brighter futures. Join us in nurturing resilient communities through art and compassion.

Transforming Lives Through Sound: BB Shaine’s Inspiring Guest Artist visit at California Rehabilitation Center

Read about BB Shaine's transformative experience with the Prison Electronic Music Program at Give a Beat. Discover how music fosters personal growth, empowerment, and community among incarcerated individuals, highlighting the profound impact of creativity in rehabilitation.

A Beat of Hope: DJ Thurston’s Impactful Guest Artist Visit at the Prison Electronic Music Program

DJ Thurston shares his transformative experience at the Prison Electronic Music Program, highlighting the power of music to connect, heal, and inspire change among incarcerated individuals. Discover how his visit left a lasting impact on both him and the participants, emphasizing the importance of art in overcoming life's challenges.

Incarceration to Record Label Success: geriFree’s Journey of “Pure Joy”

From incarceration to completing On a New Track Reentry Mentoring Program and signing with Give a Beat Records, Credible Messenger and Alumni Program Consultant, Geri’s story is a testament to the transformative power of music and the triumph of the human spirit.

Harmony Behind Bars: Juliet Mendoza's Guest Artist Visit to the Prison Electronic Music Program

Juliet Mendoza, a prominent DJ/Producer and community advocate, shares her impactful experience participating in the Prison Electronic Music Program at Give a Beat. Through her passion for music and dedication to spreading positivity, Juliet highlights the transformative power of music in fostering connections and creating a positive environment within correctional facilities.

Youth Empowerment through Music: Doug’s Inspiring Story

Discover Doug's inspiring journey in the Youth Music Production and DJ Program at Give a Beat, where his genuine enthusiasm and creativity shine through, showcasing the transformative power of music and creative expression.

Beyond the Beats: Celebrating Teaching Artists During Teacher Appreciation Month at Give a Beat

In honor of Teacher Appreciation Month, Give a Beat celebrates the profound impact of our Teaching Artists across all programs. From fostering musical talent to nurturing personal growth, these artistic educators inspire minds through creativity and compassion, leaving a lasting impact in our community.

On a New Track: Empowering Lives through Give a Beat's Fair Chance Campaign

Discover the inspiring journey of Geri and Anthony through the “I Give a Beat for Fair Chances” campaign, advocating for equal opportunities and support for successful reentry post-incarceration. Join us in erasing barriers and empowering lives through stories of resilience, redemption, and the transformative power of fair chances.

Melodies of Change: Celebrating Women's History Month at Give a Beat

Celebrating the remarkable women who have significantly contributed to Give a Beat's mission of using music to address social, racial, and economic inequalities during Women's History Month. Honoring the inspiring contributions of inspiring and influential women, like our founders Lauren Segal and Virginia Cheung in challenging oppressive systems and uniting people through music and art.

Unlocking Rehabilitation: Inside Give a Beat's Prison Electronic Music Program at California Rehabilitation Center (CRC)

Give a Beat’s Prison Electronic Music Program (PEMP) transforms lives inside correctional facilities through the power of creative expression and community building. DJs DMastrmix, Miami, and Dreadhead share their experiences, highlighting the program's impact on personal growth, empowerment, and skill development.

Honoring Iconic Black Electronic Musicians for Black History Month

Honoring iconic Black electronic musicians for Black History Month, Give a Beat pays tribute to the pioneers of Detroit Techno, Chicago House, New York Hip Hop, and Jamaican Dub who have left an indelible mark on the music industry. From Frankie Knuckles, the "Godfather of House Music," to Juan Atkins, the "Godfather of Techno," these legends broke boundaries, inspired generations, and shaped the future of music.

The Beat Within: LA Music producer Caleb Stone's Inspiring Visit to the Prison Electronic Music Program with Give a Beat

LA music producer Caleb Stone experienced firsthand the transformative power of music during his visit to the Prison Electronic Music Program with Give a Beat in Los Angeles. Stone's visit underscored the remarkable talent, creativity, and positive impact of utilizing music for rehabilitation and self-expression among incarcerated individuals.

Unlocking Potential and Empowering Youth through Music: Woody’s Journey with Give a Beat

Unlocking Potential and Empowering Youth through Music: Follow Woody's inspirational journey with Give a Beat's Youth Music Production & DJ Program. Discover how music education is shaping a brighter future for system-involved youth in Los Angeles.

Celebrating National Mentoring Month at Give a Beat: The Impact from Jerry, Keith, and Tagus

Celebrate National Mentoring Month at Give a Beat and discover the inspiring impact of Jerry, Keith, and Tagus as mentors in our program. Join us in acknowledging the mentors, volunteers, and individuals who contribute to empowering marginalized communities through music education and mentorship.

Harmony in Mental Health: Our Dedication to Youth Well-Being

Discover how Youth Mental Health First Aid Training equips the Teaching Artists to better support young program participants struggling with mental health and crises. Learn about our collaboration with inspiring organizations like No Easy Props and Inside Out Writers and the impact of music-based interventions in improving mental health outcomes for adolescents and young adults.

Hope through Rhythm: The Impact of the Prison Electronic Music Program at California Rehabilitation Center (CRC)

Explore the personal growth, resilience, and hope in the lives of incarcerated individuals as they embrace artistic expression through our Prison Electronic Music Program. Witness the impact of music in breaking down barriers and nurturing fair chances.

Breaking Barriers to Freedom

On his recent visit to Chowchilla Women’s Prison, “On a New Track” Graduate and Program Consultant Anthony McDuffie Jr. discovered stories of hope, freedom, redemption and resilience. Explore the transformative power of second chances as we delve into the heartfelt narratives shared within the Chowchilla Women’ Prison walls.

Unlocking Hope: Music Not Prisons with Lafonzo

Unlocking Hope: Discover how Lafonzo’s persistence and passion flourished with On a New Track, offering a second chance and redirecting lives through the power of music.

Turning Up the Tempo for Justice & Healing

Our Youth Music Production and DJing Program offers young people a chance to explore their creativity and utilize music as a means to promote social change and transform lives. Read more and join Give a Beat for Youth Justice Action Month as we strive to inspire justice through the healing power of music.

Solace Through Sound: DJ D2Lit Finds His Peace in Rhythm

In the realm of music and education, discover the power of rhythm and redemption in the captivating journey of DJ D2Lit. Explore how our Prison Electronic Music Program has been using music as a form of therapy, bringing healing and hope to incarcerated individuals.

On a New Track: Healing and Reintegration Through Harmonic Connections

On a New Track program promotes healing and reintegration through harmonic connections. Discover the transformative power of music as our program participants collaborate, develop skills, and find solace.

Harmonious Healing: Self Care Awareness in the Prison Electronic Music Program

Give a Beat’s Prison Electronic Music Program offers incarcerated individuals a positive emotional outlet through music and creative expression. Our transformative program empowers participants by teaching technical skills, promoting healing, and preparing them for successful reintegration into society.

Rhythm Becomes a Route to Redemption as 50+ Individuals Graduate from Give a Beat’s Prison Program

Discover how the Prison Electronic Music Program's unique integration of electronic music within correctional facilities is fostering transformation and unity. In a series of July 2023 graduation ceremonies, over 50 individuals celebrated their achievements, underscoring the profound impact of music on transcending barriers, instilling hope, and reshaping the futures of incarcerated individuals.

From Program Participant to Teaching Artist: JayCee’s Inspiring Journey with Fresh Tracks

JayCee’s journey from incarceration to becoming a Teaching Artist showcases resilience, determination, and the pursuit of dreams. Through programs like Fresh Tracks, Give a Beat highlights how music and the arts foster positive emotional outlets, creative expression, and empowerment for youth facing racial and economic injustices.

Inspiring Creative Career Pathways: Cece Chanel Regains Confidence and Independence Through Give a Beat’s “On a New Track” Program

Discover the inspiring journey of Cece Chanel, a conscious rapper and aspiring DJ. Through the reentry mentoring program, Cece found redemption and a renewed sense of purpose, proving that second chances can lead to incredible achievements.

Breaking Boundaries and Finding Freedom

DJ Velocity's Transformative Journey Through the Prison Electronic Music Program

Empowering Youth Through Creative Expression: Celebrating Fresh Tracks Program Graduation

Providing diverse opportunities in art and music for underserved youth, read how two participants found hope and inspiration throughout the program

“On a New Track” with Anthony: From Incarceration to Inspiration

Give a Beat sits down with Anthony, an artist and author, to discuss his journey as a writer, the challenges he faced along the way, and how he found strength in the midst of tragedy. Anthony shares his experiences with Give a Beat’s On a New Track Reentry Mentoring Program and how it shaped his artistic career. Read on to learn more about this inspiring individual and his impactful work.

Empowering the Next Generation of Music Professionals

Give a Beat's youth program provides hope for a student in juvenile hall.

Impact Stories

Returning As geriFree

Once incarcerated at CIW, Geri returned as a Teaching Artist.

Sky N-D-N

The Elder in the Room

DJ Bizzy B

Reclaiming a Lost Dream Behind the Decks

DJ Cali Bear

Reclaiming His Voice Through Sound

DJ No Finger Prints

Honoring a Mother’s Love Through Music

DJ Dex

Face Everything and Rise

OTN Rome

Finding Voice, Vision, and Vulnerability Through Music

Daniel

How Music Can be a Compass in Prison: Daniel’s Path to Purpose After Incarceration

This activity is supported in part by the California Arts Council, a state agency. Learn more at www.arts.ca.gov.

Prison Electronic Music Program

Digital & Technical Literacy

Music as a Mood-Shifter, Peace Builder, Tool for Conflict Resolution

Positive Social Groups

Curriculum Pillars

Music History

Business & Branding Skills

DJ Skills & Equipment

Music for Personal Transformation

"I feel like a new person when I'm in here. Music is a passion, a therapist, a place for peace."

"I haven't been this motivated in a LONG time. I'm just one class away from my business degree, and with this experience in this class, I feel like I can start my record label again. I didn't think any of that was possible anymore!"

"I feel like a human"

"I've loved music my whole life. This class really helped to show me that I can actually do this and how much I can keep growing. My son loves music too. I'm definitely getting a setup when I get out. I definitely want to be a better dad, and this is going to help."

"I give this class an A+++. My favorite takeaway: community. This is such a great vibe in here with you all, this is what I want to build on the streets. I want to pay this forward."

"I already feel like I got new family."

"I feel happy, I feel optimistic about learning new things, new technology, and being creative, but I'm most excited about learning more about myself."

"I’ve been down since 1984 and music is the only thing that's helped me serve my time. All this technology is new to me but I'm excited to be in this class doing something I love."

"It feels like we're not in prison when we're in here. This is definitely one of the best classes I've ever had."

"I'm usually a stressed guy, I don't smile much. But this class is like therapy to me. I've done a lot of programs and this is the one I look forward to the most. I've learned that I'll never stop learning no matter what I'm going through."

Stories from Our Blog

Impact Stories

Give a Beat