June 12, 2023 - Music Observer

Sacred Heart University and Teen Musician Unite for Unprecedented Harp Concerts at Rikers Island Jail

Music Observer Staff on June 12, 2023

On International Women’s Day 2023, an extraordinary celebration took place as 15-year-old harpist Russell Jakubowsky delivered two remarkable concerts at Rosie’s, the women’s ward within Rikers Island Jail. This unprecedented event was made possible by The Share Institute, Inc., operating as ShareLove.Fund, a charitable organization committed to empowering youth and women. The purpose of the event was to harness the transformative power of music, specifically for incarcerated women, in an effort to combat female recidivism.

The captivating allure of the majestic harp has resonated around the world, from the lofty summits of the Himalayas to setting records for the longest continuous playing. Now, its enchanting melodies have reached the hearts of individuals residing within one of the most secluded communities at Rikers Island Jail. While this feat may not qualify for a world record, it stands as a praiseworthy achievement that highlights trust and coordination between ShareLove.Fund and the New York City Department of Correction.

Ashley Share, Esq., the founder of ShareLove.Fund, acknowledges the security concerns associated with introducing a six-foot, 90-pound hollow-body pedal harp into a correctional facility. However, the significance of the event cannot be undermined. Performing in a women’s jail holds great importance as these facilities often receive less attention from non-profit organizations, and incarcerated women experience higher rates of mental health challenges compared to men. Music concerts play a vital role in rehabilitation and ending female recidivism, making this harp concert an invaluable endeavor.Russell Jakubowsky’s musical career is nothing short of impressive. His voyage with the harp commenced at the tender age of seven, following his mastery of music theory through piano lessons at just five years old. By the time he reached 11, he had already decided to devote himself to the harp, displaying his prodigious talent as a young professional musician through captivating performances and participation in prestigious competitions.

About ShareLove.Fund

ShareLove.Fund, the driving force behind this initiative, is committed to empowering at-risk youth and women through vocational training. Their efforts extend beyond the harp concerts, as their youth members have published three educational textbooks aimed at incarcerated women. These books, such as “Broadening Our Horizons: What Can Modern Food Science Learn from Historic Nutritional Practices?” and “Broadening Our Horizons: Gandhi Goes to School,” provide valuable knowledge in areas such as nutrition and yoga, fostering personal growth and well-being. The proceeds from the book sales support the Young Authors’ Honors Society, where high school students create engaging textbooks for women in prison pursuing vocational training degrees in yoga.

ShareLove.Fund continues to make a difference through their dedication to empowering at-risk youth and incarcerated women. By bridging the gap between education, music, and vocational training, they strive to create a brighter future for all, leaving an indelible impact on those who need it most.

Beloved ‘Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll’, Tina Turner, Dies at 83

Music Observer Staff on June 12, 2023

The world of music is mourning the loss of a legend as Tina Turner, the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll, passed away at her home in Switzerland on Wednesday, May 24. She is undoubtedly one of the most iconic figures in the history of rock-n-roll music.

She is a trailblazer who not only paved the way for future generations of female rockers but also captivated audiences worldwide with her electrifying performances and soulful voice.

A Trailblazer in the Music Industry

Turner was born Anna Mae Bullock in a humble home in Nutbush, Tennessee. From her birth on November 26, 1939, she quickly rose to fame as one half of the legendary duo Ike & Tina Turner. The duo’s explosive live performances and hit songs such as “Proud Mary” and “River Deep, Mountain High” earned them a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991.

However, it was Turner’s solo career that truly cemented her as a music icon. Her 1984 album “Private Dancer” catapulted her to superstardom, selling over 20 million copies worldwide and earning her four Grammy Awards. The album’s lead single, “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” became an instant classic and is still considered one of the greatest songs of all time.

Turner’s powerful voice, electrifying stage presence, and signature dance moves captivated audiences around the world. Her career spanned over six decades, during which she sold more than 100 million records, won 7 Grammy Awards, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

A Life of Triumphs and Struggles

Despite her many triumphs, Turner’s life was not without struggles. She endured years of physical and emotional abuse at the hands of her former husband and musical partner, Ike Turner.

Turner’s personal life was not without its challenges, either. She battled health issues, including a stroke in 2013, but continued to perform and tour until 2009. She lived her final years in Switzerland with her husband, Erwin Bach, whom she married in 2013.

During the airing of the 2021 HBO documentary, “Tina”, the singer recollected that numerous journalists seemed to only focus on her past experiences with abuse and disregard her second act as a successful solo artist and a source of inspiration to women all around the world.

Alongside her music triumphs, Tina Turner also ventured into acting and appeared in the 1985 movie “Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome.” She continued to release successful albums throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, including “Break Every Rule,” “Foreign Affair,” and “Wildest Dreams.”

In 2004, her greatest hits album, “All the Best,” was released to critical acclaim. However, by 2009, Turner had decided to reduce her public appearances and step away from the demands of the music industry, officially retiring from the limelight.

Tina Turner’s Legacy Continues to Rock On

In the wake of Tina Turner’s passing, the world mourns the loss of a true icon. Her powerful voice, electrifying stage presence, and trailblazing spirit will continue to inspire generations of music lovers for years to come. As the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll takes her final bow, her legacy continues to rock on.

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