The State Sessions is for Young Creatives by Young Creatives

It all started with Freespace: a space for all ages to come together to enjoy in the art of music and creativity. Freespace was way ahead of their time, and now the rest of the City is finally catching up. Freespace has evolved from monthly free events to The New State, “a historical redevelopment project that will transform the old State Theater into a community music hub for all ages.”

The New State team is currently in the process of renovating The Palms club into a 415-capacity all-ages, music venue that plans on hosting 150+ live events per year, amongst other amenities, perks and resources for creatives. One of those resources is The State Sessions, youth focused programming and engagement.

The youth engagement leadership team includes Milwaukee artists Nile and Ammorelle and long-time supporter of music Justin Herrick. Each leader has a different role to accomplish the same goal: be a resource to the creatives of Milwaukee.

The State Sessions will host curated events, such as open mics and workshops.

“I want the impact to be very positive,” said Nile. “We need to be able to give back to the community. What do the creatives need?”

“We all need a space to be able to create. This is a space definitely available for all listeners and viewers. There will be a space for you as long as you treat the space with respect and love,” he added.

Ammorelle stated that she’s still in her beginning stages of her career, so she’s not guessing on what an artist may need because she knows. When starting her career, she wasn’t surrounded by people creating music. Ammorelle believes that if she had something like The State Sessions then maybe she would have more than two albums out by now.

“It’s going to be an open door. No negativity allowed…very accepting,” Ammorelle said. “[When] you’re here, we’re going to love on you. We respect you.”

Some of the advice she’ll be providing to creatives is to not rush anything and to make sure all of your things are in order.

“Make sure it’s quality [and] always listen to yourself,” but it’s good to take advice, she said.

Within the last year, Herrick has been learning production, but has been doing poetry since around 6th or 7th grade. The State Sessions is also something Herrick wished he had as a kid.

The State Sessions will provide knowledge on things like what venues to perform at or how to move up to the next level because, as of right now, “there’s no real direction,” said Herrick.

“We’re trying to be the right people. We want to provide open opportunities,” he said.

“Kids needs an outlet to explore themselves,” and they’ll trying to figure out ways to provide that while social distancing, Herrick stated.

Included in The State Sessions is The Kee Podcast, which represents being the key to the city by connecting with the youth through the media. They see it as a great way to engage fans and creatives, while providing insight into the industry. Their first guest was Lexi Brunson from CopyWrite Magazine.

The State Sessions is still in the process of being created, but you can follow their journey by clicking here.