DESCRIPTION:
Live from Hampshire County Jail, Young@Heart with the Old Souls, an all-male inmate chorus, backed by the Young@Heart Band with soloist Anthony Rodriguez singing "Because I Love You" and an original rhyme by Stefan Moss, part of the Young@Heart Prison Project. Anthony grew up singing this song because it was one of his mother's favorites. He was 20 at the time of this concert and had been in the juvenile system since he was 13. This was his first time singing in public. He overcame persistent stage fright to deliver this memorable performance and discover his talent and power as a singer. He was released from prison a month ago. We wish him all the best as he makes his way in the world and begins a new chapter in his life. UPDATE: As of Jan 2021, we are still in regular touch with Anthony. He had a prominent role in our Oct 2020 virtual concert Miss You. He is doing great in his new life and continues to sing whenever he can. We couldn't be happier for him, and his abilities to create a good life for himself post-incarceration and will continue to work with him musically. Started in fall 2014, this project includes weekly music rehearsals with inmates in 2 local prisons, and continues making music with select participants after their release. Filmed & Edited by Kazuhiko Iimura