ATLANTA — Hip-hop music producer Nosakhe’re Jabali Andrews made a splash in the industry after producing Bankroll Fresh’s song “Walked In.”
The young producer is better known as "Mr. 217." His song credits also include working with big artists like 2 Chainz, Lil Wayne and several other artists. He’s been producing music for more than 10 years.
Mr. 217 says after losing his dear friend Bankroll Fresh to gun violence, he wanted to change lives with positive mentorship in the community.
“I lost one of my closest friends and mentors… to gun violence. Just violence. I see the cycle ongoing,” he said.
He says he found healing through religion and ended up launching the "Disciple The Hood" organization to minister the youth through hip-hop music.
“Every Sunday on Bankhead we mentor them and teach them how to make beats, teach them about God, [and] how to make different choices. These kids come straight off the streets,” he said.
When asked how he came up with the organization’s name, he said, “The hood needs to be discipled. The hood needs love. We’ve seen a complete change of character and mindset.”
The community initiative teaches the kids to make positive music, and also hosts barbershop events and outdoor festivities.
Mr. 217 says this is just the beginning… and that Bankroll Fresh would be proud.
“It comes from the heart… a change of heart and mind. It’s not something you fabricate. You gotta actually believe in it yourself,” he said.
The young producer says the next big event for "Disciple The Hood" will be during the Atlanta Dream game on July 14th at State Farm Arena.
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