Watch 64 Bars

64 Bars from - a groundbreaking musical web series - documents the challenging lives and extraordinary artistic journeys of young people at the forefront of our changing America. Produced through a unique collaborative process between DCTV, Open Society Foundations, and Rikers Island, the show weaves together original music videos, spoken word poetry, and intimate interviews to tell the inspiring and heartbreaking stories of these young artists.

The series digs deep into the intricate, political and personal stories of people who have been systemically told they don’t matter in America. By collaborating with these young artists, 64 Bars From courageously tells their stories and calls us all to action.

Against the backdrop of the largest jail in America, the series gives voice to incarcerated youth, and through their words and music, we are given a glimpse into their experiences of life inside an institution that they have learned to call home. Through the power of their spoken word poetry, we hear first-hand accounts of systemic oppression, racism, and violence, and their broken dreams and expectations.

The show confronts viewers with the harsh realities of America's criminal justice system and its severe impact on individuals, communities, and families. The series takes an unflinching look at the flaws and injustices of the systems that have failed these young people, but it does not stop there. It also celebrates the resilience and creativity of these young people and the transformative power of art.

In one episode, we hear from a young woman who spent her teen years in and out of prison. She shares how her difficult experiences have shaped her as an artist and helped her find her voice. Her powerful performance is paired with an emotional interview that reckons with the painful memories of her past.

In another episode, viewers are treated to the vibrant music video of a young musician, who raps about the injustices of the system. His lyrics depict a stark depiction of the systemic issues which lead to mass incarceration, but it is the musicality of his delivery and the hope in his lyrics that truly leave an impact.

64 Bars from invites us to take a closer look at the realities of our criminal justice system, which disproportionately targets the most vulnerable populations in America. But through the powerful tools of spoken word poetry and music, it also offers a message of hope, inspiration, resilience, and even love.

Through it all, the show's emphasis is on the importance of listening intently to the stories of the people at the forefront of our changing America. With innovative cinematography, gripping interviews, and powerful music, the series captivates viewers with the fierce resilience of those at the margins of society and the transformative ability of art.

In the end, 64 Bars from proves that it is possible to use art and storytelling as a tool for combating injustice, inspiring individual and collective action, and bringing about a better world for everyone.