A Whole Lot – an original track and animated video, created by Kingmakers Music youth artists under the guidance of artist and educator Jahi Torman – was designed as a creative companion to NEEF’s Climate Emotions Toolkit to help educators, caregivers, and young people acknowledge and navigate the range emotions tied to climate change. 

“Our partnership with Hip Hop Public Health means a lot to us,” said Jada Lewis, Vice President, Programs, NEEF. “Together, we've created award-winning work like EMPOWER, and A Whole Lot builds on that success. It's fun, smart, and something different and exactly the kind of resource educators and practitioners can use to spark curiosity and start meaningful conversations with students. We’re proud to work with a team that shares our values and knows how to reach young people in fresh and effective ways.

Jahi, alongside 16-year-old rapper Jadon Mason, 17-year-old beat-maker Keith Barnes, Jr., and a team of young artists, crafted a call to action that validates the range of feelings around climate change and promotes the power of self-care, community care, and climate action. A group of sixth-grade students from West Oakland Middle School served as musical consultants.

“Seeing an intergenerational conversation with a 16-year-old and an over 50-year-old talking about climate change through hip hop—that's how hip hop promotes change,” said Jahi Torman, Director of Youth Voice & Leadership & Kingmakers Music. “We are here on planet Earth to accomplish our goals and dreams. I want to make sure we have the best environment to be able to do so. I want young people to know that they have the power to do their part to keep a healthy environment to live in.”

“Hip hop is rooted in social justice, community, and collective action,” said Lindsey Harr, Chief Program and Operations Officer at Hip Hop Public Health. “We are honored to partner with an intergenerational group of artists to bring the power of music to the pressing issues of climate change and mental health. A Whole Lot creates an accessible entry point for conversations that validate climate emotions and point the way to relevant, empowering actions.”