Colten Ashley of KSUT and Tamara Turner, of Southern Ute Behavioral Health, recently hosted a collaborative hip hop songwriting workshop for youth. Our young stars, twelve-year-old Meskvlwv and nine-year-old Tenetke Wesley, crafted rhymes and beats with the guidance of songwriters, Tanaya Winder and Paul Wenell Jr. who specialize in facilitating songwriting and storytelling workshops for youth.  

Their organization, Dream Warriors, has led numerous projects with KSUT in the past. On the first day, our participants worked on exploring the kind of song they wanted to create and tested out lyrics and rhymes. They also created original beats for the backdrop with a catchy refrain, “Where I’m from!” Their song about growing up in Ignacio focuses on positive vibes and healthy choices. On the second day, the brothers sat at the mixing boards in the KSUT studios and recorded their tracks with the help of Colten Ashley. Both Winder and Wenell did a great job of drawing out the thoughts and goals of these two talented boys. We were delighted to hear them speak about how much music means to them.  

Indeed, the goal of these workshops is to provide positive opportunities for youth to engage in healthy choices, express their voices, and be heard. We look forward to playing this song on KSUT in the near future. Keep an eye out for these rising Wesley stars in the community!  

Here’s to your good health! 

It’s okay not to feel okay 

If you or someone you know has been struggling with their emotions, behaviors, or substance use, please reach out to us. We can help you find appropriate tools and services that could help you overcome obstacles in your life. We are here for you. Please contact the Southern Ute Behavioral Health Division at 970.563.5700 for more information or to set up an appointment to see a counselor or therapist.  

Reminder: If you need to talk to someone, please reach out.