Give a Beat Records

A label for social change and a voice for the underrepresented.

Give a Beat Records supports people after incarceration, helping them produce, distribute, and market original music for global release, giving our artists access to a platform to share their voices with the world. 

In partnership with EMPIRE distribution, Give a Beat Records leverages our deep-rooted network within the global music industry to open opportunities and access to resources like studio time, mastering services, music video/ photo shoots, and album artwork as well legal guidance and full ownership of their music. 

We are proud to put a spotlight on our entire roster of formerly incarcerated artists, each with a unique voice, story, and musical style, ready to challenge narratives.

  • Voice for the Underrepresented

  • Platform for Advocacy

  • Strengthening Creative Career Pathways

Thank you to all our supporters at the Give a Beat Records Launch and geriFree Record Release Party!

geriFree

Through her second chance in Give a Beat’s On a New Track Reentry Mentoring Program, Geri Meyers has adopted the moniker of “geriFree” and is an artist on Give a Beat Records – a label for social change and a voice of the underrepresented – and now she celebrates the groundbreaking release of “Pure Joy,” the first song on the label. 

With her energetic house beats that offer vitality and positive spirit, she’s creating a danceable vibe that’s irresistible. Stay tuned for the geriFree experience – this is only the beginning. 

Pelligroso

Pelligroso, the new, hip-hop DJ/artist was signed to the non-profit organization’s new label, Give a Beat Records.

Eight months after his release from the California Youth Authority (CYA), Koeppell 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. 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. For Pelligroso and Give a Beat, the journey continues. 

On a New Track

As an extension of On a New Track Reentry Mentoring Program, Give a Beat supports program graduates and participants, giving them a platform to release their original music and mixes. Give a Beat artists have not had these types of breaks due to barriers of access to capital resources, technology, or industry professionals. The goal is to uplift them so they can heal and thrive from years of social injustice, present opportunities to transform themselves and their communities, and strengthen creative career pathways.

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

For more inquiries or more information, email GABRecords@giveabeat.org