Pops Culture: new album pays tribute to Father Emmett Johns

Pops Culture: new album pays tribute to Father Emmett Johns

MONTREAL, Jan. 27, 2016 /CNW Telbec/ - Dans la rue proudly celebrated the release of Pops Culture, an album honouring the founder, Father Emmett "Pops" Johns, today at Cabaret Lion d'Or.

The initiative is the result of a collaboration between 15 youth who use the services of Dans la rue and 20 well-known performers from Quebec's musical community, including Damien Robitaille, Alexandre Désilets, Boogat, Michel Langevin (Voivod), Betty Bonifassi, Julien Sagot (formerly of Karkwa) and five musicians from the Montreal Symphony Orchestra.

"When the idea of putting a second CD together came up, those involved immediately thought about making it a tribute to Pops," said Cécile Arbaud, Executive Director of Dans la rue. "That just goes to show how much of an impact Father Johns has had on the lives of generations of young people, through his vision, his generosity and his steadfast commitment."

Pops Culture is not just any album. This second musical compilation, following in the footsteps of 2013's INSPIRE, is a collaborative, creative endeavour rooted in the values of community spirit, engagement, humility and acceptance of one another's differences.

"We've seen a lot of good things come out of the first compilation. It's amazing how it has resonated with our youth and how positive the impact has been," indicated music therapist Julien Peyrin, who heads Dans la rue's music program. "That's why we are repeating the experience and, through it, promoting social inclusion and collaboration."

The album, produced in the fall at Dans la rue's music studio, allowed each of the young performers from the organization to be paired up with one or two professional musicians.

"Getting involved in this project drove home what making music is really all about," said singer-songwriter Damien Robitaille. "When two people from two different backgrounds can come together in front of a blank piece of paper, and leave a few hours later with a beautiful song - that's immensely gratifying."

To stream the album or download it for the nominal price of $5, go to : www.danslarue.bandcamp.com

About Dans la rue
Founded by Father Emmett Johns ("Pops") in 1988, Le Bon Dieu dans la rue helps young homeless or at-risk youth. With dedication, empathy and respect, and with the support of the community, we care for their immediate needs and help them acquire the skills and resources needed to lead more autonomous and rewarding lives.



SOURCE Dans la rue

Dans la rue

CONTACT: Dorothy Massimo, Director, Development & Communications, 514 526-5222, ext. 223, dorothym@danslarue.org; Nadjib Salah, Communications Consultant, 514 526-5222, ext. 227, Cell. : 514 792-8205, nadjibs@danslarue.org

Web Site: http://www.danslarue.org/


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