Here’s a heartwarming story to kick off your week: In a sweet display of talent and opportunity, twenty students from Pittsburgh’s Faison and Westinghouse academies had the chance of a lifetime to perform alongside rapper superstar Lil Durk at the PPG Paints Arena.
The students took the stage with confidence and enthusiasm, captivating the audience with their rendition of Lil Durk’s hit song “All My Life.” The collaboration between Lil Durk and the Pittsburgh Public Schools students was a result of a serendipitous email received by Dr. Kimberly Price, the Coordinator of Performing Arts for the school district. The unexpected invitation paved the way for an unforgettable experience for the young performers, who had the chance to showcase their skills in front of a huge crowd.
Lil Durk, welcomed the students with open arms, recognizing their talent and dedication to their craft. The Chicago rapper, who was in town as part of the “It’s All A Blur” tour alongside Drake and J. Cole, was impressed by the students’ energy and passion for music. To make things even more special, he didn’t just let them perform for free. He gave them each $100.
Speaking on how this came together, Dr. Price explained, “The two schools brought 20 students from different age groups. From high school, sixth and fifth grades. Teachers gave up their weekends to be there for the kids. To have a team that came together like they did from our communications department to our teachers who gave up half of a day on a Saturday, people want our kids to do well, and our kids do,” CBS News quotes.
While praising Lil Durk, Price added, “He was so gracious with the kids. I wish you could have seen it. He was giving kids high fives, [and] fist bumps. Originally, with the pictures, he stood to the side so the kids could get the spotlight they deserved.”
“Our kids were like, they were so excited, they were crying. It was a moment I will not forget, to see the kids do so well and be treated so well by an artist; they won’t forget it either.”
The collaboration between Lil Durk and the Pittsburgh Public Schools students will undoubtedly be remembered as a shining example of the magic that can happen when talent, opportunity, and passion come together on stage. It was a night to remember, a celebration of music, unity, and the boundless potential of young artists to shine bright in the spotlight.