These are just some of the students showcased in this year’s Ram Records album, a project the music department releases every year that showcases the wide array of student talent at Glenbard East.
“Ram Records” was created to showcase the amazing talents of Glenbard East students, according to Melissa Mclean, the Assistant Activity director.
“So many students that I teach here create great music that I get to hear, but they don’t get to do anything with it.” Mclean stated. “It’s important for us as a community to make sure that we all have a voice, this album gives us a chance at that.”
This year’s album is called “Album Co-op Vol 2,” and was released on May 3. 2024. The album features songs in various genres by students from all over East. Most of the students involved are enrolled in music class, but it is open to everyone.
Released every year in early May, the album on average has 12-14 tracks, Submissions come in around April. Once the album is released, the artists and their supporters celebrate with a release party. “Album Co-op Vol 2” can be found on most major streaming platforms under the artist name “Glenbard East Ram Records”.
Damarius Brown, an artist featured on the album says, “Being able to collaborate with my peers and make such a positive moment was amazing for me.” The process in making this album is student-led, which many who are a part of the album look forward to. Mclean further shared that the artwork for the album is 100% student created. Darren Oboab, a recent Glenbard East graduate of the class of 2024, created last year’s artwork.
“YVNG-Dooda,” commonly known as Damarius Brown, who’s featured in 2 songs on the album describes it as a “great experience.” “I’ve gotten to learn so many new things, and I appreciate the opportunities I received,” Brown remarked. “Performing at last year’s GBX Music Festival was also an out-of-this-world experience; this album helped to give me that opportunity.”
Students like Brown wish that there was more promotion for the music department here at East, as this school is packed with talent and potential that deserves a chance to be heard.
