A Philadelphia High School is the Subject of New John Legend-Produced Documentary

An upcoming HBO Original documentary produced by John Legend has a Philadelphia high school as a key part of the plot, writes Rania Aniftos for Billboard.

The singer-songwriter is collaborating with Get Lifted Co., Mike Jackson, and Ty Stiklorious as executive producer of “Stand Up & Shout: Songs From a Philly High School.”

The documentary is about a group of 10th-grade students at Hill-Freedman World Academy in Germantown, who work with local musicians — award-winning musical talents Kristal Oliver, Andrew Lipke, and Bethlehem Roberson, along with program director and music technology teacher, Ezechial Thurman — to create an album of original songs that serve two purposes.

The songs capture the challenging times the students are living in, as well as the joy that music brings. 

“Stand Up & Shout is a powerful reminder of the importance of music education and its ability to transform lives,” said Jackson.

The documentary is directed by Amy Schatz, who highlights how it “explores the transformative power of music and how arts education can unlock creativity and be a source of hope and healing.”

Stand Up & Shout: Songs From a Philly High School is scheduled to air on HBO on Tuesday, November 7 at 9 PM.

Read more about Stand Up & Shout: Songs From a Philly High School in Billboard.

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