About The Founder
Mr. James Weaver IV is a rhythmic poet, songwriter, activist, and educator from Chicago, IL who received his B.S. from Hampton University, majoring in Strategic Communication and minoring in Marketing. He began creating music as a child who attended D.R.E.A.M Studios Incorporated, his family’s business and a performing arts school that stands for “Dramatically Reaching Everyone’s Artistic Mentality.” There he learned how to act, sing, and dance, however, it was another form of art that his soul gravitated too—Hip-Hop.
Upon graduating in 2019, he became a music teacher & choir director at Southwood Middle School in Country Club Hills, IL. It was there where his youth program, The SouthSide Soul, was born. Since then, he has relocated to Atlanta, and has begun his first full-year teaching in the Kipp Metro-Atlanta Network. He teaches songwriting, vocal performance, production, and more, while also providing deep knowledge of the music industry to emerging artists.
Recognizing the power of one’s voice and the influence music has on today’s youth, Mr. Weaver provides an environment for young creatives to explore music through various lenses.
Our Vision
Music is a universal language that brings people together. Our goal is to have a platform that teaches youth, all over the world, how to create original music based off their unique experiences & emotions.
We believe this outlet will help children build confidence, improve social & emotional skills, along with various other life-skills. W
Music is a universal language that brings people together. Our goal is to have a platform that teaches youth, all over the world, how to create original music based off their unique experiences & emotions.
We believe this outlet will help children build confidence, improve social & emotional skills, along with various other life-skills. We aim to assist in the prevention of suicide, gun violence, and mass incarceration of youth in at-risk communities by providing them with life-altering experiences and investing into their imagination as creatives.
Our Technology
The SouthSide Soul uses state-of-the-art technology to provide the best music experience to our students. Our student are introduced to music through BandLab, a social media music network that allows them to record & produce right from their own personal device, and is great for beginners.
Students are then introduced to Avid Protools, wh
The SouthSide Soul uses state-of-the-art technology to provide the best music experience to our students. Our student are introduced to music through BandLab, a social media music network that allows them to record & produce right from their own personal device, and is great for beginners.
Students are then introduced to Avid Protools, which is the music industry standard for creation and production.
Furthermore, introduced to other art forms & technologies that affect the entertainment industry, such as Adobe Photoshop, film, light and stage design, disc jockeying (DJ), fashion, & more.
Our Community
Our Community
We believe that music is not just about listening, but also about sharing and connecting with others. Our program allows for students to collaborate and interact with other young music enthusiasts and professionals.
The SouthSide Soul has become a family, and with the support of our parents, staff, and community, we are able to provide a
We believe that music is not just about listening, but also about sharing and connecting with others. Our program allows for students to collaborate and interact with other young music enthusiasts and professionals.
The SouthSide Soul has become a family, and with the support of our parents, staff, and community, we are able to provide a safe space for students to be their authentic-self and create.
The Young + Gifted All-Star Camp
Summer Camp 2025
The SouthSide Soul Youth Empowerment Program is thrilled to introduce The Young + Gifted All-Star Camp for the Summer of 2025. Running from 9AM to 4AM daily, this unique program provides breakfast and lunch for students, offering a one-of-a-kind opportunity for emerging artists to delve into the world of music performance and creation. Participants will receive comprehensive training in songwriting, music production/engineering, & gain invaluable studio experience. Only $250!!!
Learn More
Our commitment to affordability ensures access to opportunities that pave the way for these young talents to excel in the music industry. Join us for a transformative 5-week program from June 9th to July 11th, 2025 at IM1 Studios.
Rhythm + Soul TV
Check out our NEW ROKU TV CHANNEL
Rhythm + Soul TV is a dynamic visual platform dedicated to showcasing the next generation of young artists through music, performance, and creative storytelling. Powered by SouthSide Soul, this innovative program highlights raw talent, original music, and behind-the-scenes moments that capture the energy and passion of our youth.
Streaming on HotMusic365 and Roku, Rhythm + Soul TV brings exclusive performances, artist interviews, and in-depth discussions on music, culture, and industry insights straight to your screen. This is where the voices of tomorrow take center stage—celebrating creativity, individuality, and the rhythm of the soul!
Stream Live Now: HotMusic365.TV
CLICK TO WATCH OUR NEW CHANNEL LIVE!
Exciting News!!
The SouthSide Soul’s First Song is Now Available on All Platforms
We’re beyond excited to announce the release of SouthSide Soul’s first song, In This World (No Love), produced by the incredibly talented DC Guap—a former SouthSide Soul student!
This milestone marks a special moment in our journey, and we can’t wait for you to hear it. The track is available now on all music platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, YouTube, and more.
We’re so proud of DC Guap and the entire SouthSide Soul team for making this dream a reality. Stay tuned for more music, and thank you for supporting our mission!
Listen now and let us know what you think! 🎶
Register for ASCAP and Start Earning Royalties!
We’re also excited to announce that SouthSide Soul students now have the opportunity to register for ASCAP, a free and valuable resource for music creators! By signing up, students can begin receiving royalties for their work as we continue to release music. This is a fantastic way for our talented youth to gain recognition for their contributions and start building a foundation for their music careers. We encourage all of our students to take advantage of this opportunity and begin earning for their hard work and creativity!
Join The SouthSide Soul and Make a Difference
Volunteer Opportunities
We offer a variety of volunteer opportunities for youth to get involved in their community and make a difference. From participating in local events to helping out during our Young & Gifted All-Star Camp, there's something for everyone!
EVERYBODY E.A.T.S. ELEVATING ART THROUGH SOUL
Sponsors
D.R.E.A.M Studios Inc.
D.R.E.A.M. Studios is a Performing Arts After School & Conservatory Program that was founded to introduce inner-city youths to theater. We develop new works for the stage that promotes and celebrates diversity, emphasizing African American youth and multi-ethnic participants to be bold theatricality.
EVERYBODY E.A.T.S
Established in 2013 by Atlanta native Quieanu Huff, Everybody Eats is committed to making a positive impact in communities. Focused on tackling hunger, poverty, and fostering youth development, more than half of the non-profit's proceeds contribute to significant causes. This encompasses initiatives such as food and clothing drives, youth development and mentorship programs, along with creating scholarship opportunities.
The Krypto Pioneers
"We empower urban communities through education and opportunity. Our mission is to provide valuable insights into investing, money management, cryptocurrency, and credit. Through engaging workshops, we guide individuals on their journey towards financial empowerment and success in the ever-evolving world of finance. Join us as we pave the way for a brighter financial future for all."
Wallet Guard
Wallet Guard is a free open-source security tool designed to proactively detect threats, prevent phishing & help you transact confidently.
Exciting Partnership with Hot Music 365!
Hot Music 365 is a dynamic platform that promotes and nurtures emerging music talent year-round. Their dedication to providing artists with the tools and resources to succeed in the music industry aligns perfectly with our goals, and we’re thrilled to collaborate with them as we continue to grow.