New York City Metro Coalition

Hailing from Los Angeles, with roots in the Midwest and abroad, Erik Negash, also known as Renasonce, is a dedicated young activist whose music can best be described as a progressive electronic/conscious lyricism hybrid. His underlying message, as exemplified both in his artistry, and his continuing work on behalf of at-risk young people in under-served communities, is that youth involvement on all levels is crucial if we are to practically implement positive change, and maintain America's tradition of excellence in innovation in the global community. His style as introspective as it is edgy, Renasonce embodies the ideal that musical artistry can be a powerful tool for the practical implementation of programs and policies that are geared toward collective empowerment.  As a member of his former musical group, Front Porch, Renasonce completed professional artist development under the direction Grammy nominated jazz/gospel musician Howard McCrary,  and was professionally  voice coached by Broadway singer/actor William Thomas Jr, known for his role as Dabnes on The Cosby Show.  Renasonce has performed in many locales, including performing on Ed McMahon's The Next Big Star, at BB Kings (at The Universal Citywalk), and as an opening act for Mos Def and Talib Kweli, the 4th Avenue Jones, Mystic, Jurassic 5, Saul Williams, and various other artists dedicated to consciousness and positivity.  His underlying message, as exemplified both in his artistry, and his continuing work in his day job as a tutor and educational outreach coordinator on behalf of at-risk young people in Watts specifically, and underserved communities in general, is that youth involvement on all levels is crucial if we are to practically implement positive change, and maintain America's tradition of excellence in innovation in the global community. Renasonce embodies the ideal that musical artistry can be a powerful tool for the practical implementation of programs and policies that are geared toward collective empowerment through personal responsibility. In addition to his continuing work with Infiniti Productions ( http://infinitiproductions.com/infiniti/About_Us.html ), Renasonce has recently partnered with the musicians who make up I- Trinity and The Libra Project to create additional opportunities for youth empowerment.  Having also performed at the Global Summit in San Francisco, he is completing the final steps for releasing an album in which will benefit key youth-related causes.  You can check out some of his material at: ( myspace.com/renasonce )  He will be performing at an all ages event in Long Beach on May 23rd- Contact him via email (or myspace) for details. renasonce@gmail.com