Digital Initiative Provides New Platform for Artists
August 11, 2021
ICYMI – SEPTA Sounds is a new initiative that combines the everyday sounds of a busy commute with some of the most talented musicians in the Philadelphia area.
The program aims to shine a spotlight on local artists and the SEPTA stations where they perform.
For nearly a century, musicians across the region have turned subway and train platforms into their stages. With many traditional venues closed due to the pandemic, artists around the globe have searched for new ways to share their talents, and Philadelphia is no exception.
SEPTA joined forces with Dan Rouse – a Philly-based musician, influencer, and creative – to bring SEPTA Sounds to life. Since he was a child, Rouse has considered music to be one of the most powerful forces in our universe. This idea drove his passion for music at an early age as he harnessed his skills as an instrumentalist, producer, and composer. After years of establishing himself as a keyboardist in the industry, he has worked with celebrities including Jennifer Hudson, Patti Labelle, Village People, Hoodie Allen, Demetria McKinney, and many more.
“Philly is regarded as a top-tier city in respect to talent, caliber, and ability throughout the music industry and is continuously represented on the world’s biggest stages,” said Rouse. “Even still, the platforms SEPTA Sounds is offering to our local musicians and to our city are just as rewarding, and I can’t thank SEPTA enough for supporting our diverse scene.”
Through the years, Rouse has also embraced a seemingly natural role of musical director. His understanding of musical placement, space, and vision is the foundation of SEPTA Sounds, and his connections to the local music scene are what make it grow.
The program launched in May 2021 and has featured 18 performances from eight amazing acts and counting.
There is no live audience. SEPTA Sounds is a 100% digital music series shot at various SEPTA locations. Each performance is approximately one minute long. The videos are shared across SEPTA’s Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube accounts. With over 200,000 impressions to date, SEPTA Sounds is making an impact on social media.
Performers include alternative soul indie artist Jakeya Sanders; pop singer/songwriter duo Dom & Jesse; piano virtuoso Eric Wortham; singer/songwriter Hannah Lorimer; Japanese American multiinstrumentalist and songwriter Rachel Andie; drummer/producer Steve McKie; Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Ben O’Neill; and singer/songwriter, vocal arranger, and keyboardist Mare.
SEPTA Sounds spotlights these performers at incredible acoustic spaces – SEPTA stations – doing what they do best – spreading joy and positivity through the gift of music.
To learn more about SEPTA Sounds and to view the performances, please visit: iseptaphilly.com/septasounds or follow ISEPTAPHILLY on social media.
Artists interested in participating in the program should email: iseptaphilly@septa.org.
