Mr. Harold Stephan shares Stuyvesant hosted All-City Modern Music Project included Grammy visits from hit songwriter and author Sam Hollander and hip-hop artist Namel "TapWaterz" Norris over the past two Saturdays:
Jan 7th - Sam Hollander has written and/or produced 22 US Top 40 Pop Hits, as well as numerous worldwide smashes, including Panic! at the Disco's worldwide #1 "High Hopes". In 2019, he held the #1 position on the Billboard Rock Songwriters chart for nine weeks, a year-end record. He was previously named Rolling Stone Hot List Producer of the Year, alongside Dave "Sluggo" Katz. Sam is also the author of 21-Hit Wonder, which is one part chronicle of a songwriter’s storied career and another part love letter to anyone who has been counted out—from no-hit wonders and one-hit wonders to the novelties and the never-beens—and just needs a bit of inspiration to persevere. Sam’s inspiring story is proof that setbacks are just steps on the road to success.
Jan 14th - Namel “TapWaterz” Norris is a paraplegic hip hop artist who uses music to speak out against social injustices and encourage people to never give up. He has spoken at the White house. Performed at the United Nations, and worked with Snoop Dogg & Stevie Wonder. He’s also earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, and a “Music Essentials” certificate from NYU. At 17, Namel was accidentally shot and left paralyzed. Despite his setbacks he cofounded a movement called 4 Wheel City, to inspire change, create more opportunities for people with disabilities and keep youth from gun violence.
