BMCC | How You Feel

R.H.Y.M.E x BMCC Spring 26

Students and staff at BMCC are exploring the therapeutic nature of art and Hip Hop through R.H.Y.M.E (Rhymes Help Young Minds Excel). The process of collaborative art making strengthens community, expands our social network and cultivates a sense of belonging. During the 2026 spring semester students gathered twice a week for 12 weeks with R.H.Y.M.E teaching artists Brandon “Nu”, Jason “Conquest” and Baz Diaby along with Ms. Sybil, BMCC NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselor to share stories and create art that reflects who and where they are.

After writing lyrics and producing music on campus students went on a field trip to GB’s Juke Joint, a Grammy award winning music studio to record their original song “How You Feel”.

“How You Feel” is a powerful expression of hope and opportunity that builds on progress made during the fall semester where students broke ground with their debut song “Breakthrough“. For some students this was their first time recording an original song. For others it was their first time recording at a major recording studio like GB’s Juke Joint. On May 7th, 2026 BMCC students will come together to premiere the project for the larger BMCC community and also to perform their own original individual pieces.

For many students this experience has provided an opportunity to step up, share stories, be seen and heard. We’re proud of our partnership with the Counseling Department at BMCC. We believe that healing happens as students explore and express stories through art in community.

Credits:

Beat produced by Baz Diaby (BMCC Student and R.H.Y.M.E Intern)

Recording done at GB’s Juke Joint. Audio engineered by Colin Mohnacs, mixed by Glaze.

Music video shot and edited by Eric Mason of Thrive Collective

Writers and performers on the song/video in order:

1)Sybil Young

2) Armani Ramsey aka Ammie

3) Angel Gutiérrez

4) Cheisy Taveras

5) Josh

6) Jason Roberts aka CONQUEST

7) Cashema Slater

8) Tristen Kranwinkel

9) Nathalia Torres

10) Monique Hugee

11) Delon Sanchez

12) Shaun Parker

13) Judy Hampton

14) Cameo video appearance: Jacob Hughes, Baz Diaby, Brandon aka NU

Produced by Baz Diaby

Vocal production: Baz Diaby & CONQUEST

Co-vocal production: Randy Mason

Video shot & edited by Eric Mason

Teaching artists: Jason “Conquest”, Brandon “Nu” & Baz Diaby