HIP Soul Festival Workshop

Service Description

The HIP Soul Festival Workshop is an integral part of our Young Adults Production Program (YAPP), which offers hands-on opportunities for young creatives to build skills, nurture their passions, and execute meaningful projects. Each YAPP initiative is tailored to inspire and challenge participants. For instance, during the inaugural HIP Soul Fest in 2023, The Electric Stage initiative brought Atlanta's Ascension Collective together to design a backline, form a band, and produce a vibrant outdoor event. This year, the focus is on The Coffy Shop Band—a challenge to audition, cast, rehearse, and produce a live performance during the final day of the 8-week workshop. The showcase, Love in the Upper Room, will debut the band and highlight the talents and dedication of our participants. A Tailored Experience What sets the HIP Soul Fest apart is its customized approach to meeting the goals and interests of every participant. Take Avalon, for example—a standout participant from 2023. Initially joining an art retreat at D’Wayne Wiggins’ Electric Church (Georgia acreage), Avalon painted a mural on the Coffy Bus featuring Tony! Toni! Toné! His musical abilities as a singer-songwriter were discovered, leading to his performance during the Hampton, GA HIP Soul Fest. This experience illustrates the festival’s commitment to fostering growth and creativity, ensuring each artist can shine in their own way. Honoring D’Wayne Wiggins This workshop and Sweetest Day production honor the life and legacy of D’Wayne Wiggins, a celebrated musician, producer, and community visionary. Best known as a founding member of Tony! Toni! Toné!, D’Wayne’s timeless hits like Feels Good, Anniversary, and If I Had No Loot continue to inspire artists worldwide. His selfless dedication to nurturing young creatives was instrumental in shaping the HIP Soul Festival Workshop and inaugural 2023 HIP Soul Fest. His generosity laid the foundation for our success, from granting access to his Electric Church acreage to donating the Coffy Bus to Holter Intellectual Property, Inc. (HIP Inc). His innovative idea for Karaoke for Literacy blends music, education, and empowerment in ways that continue to uplift communities. With hearts full of gratitude, we proudly carry D’Wayne’s legacy forward, honoring his vision and contributions. Save the Date: Love in the Upper Room Mark your calendars! The HIP Soul Festival Workshop culminates with Love in the Upper Room, an unforgettable show!