Sonic Guild is excited to announce the top 10 nominees for the Music’s In Our Blood grant with Bloodworks Northwest. These musicians have been selected for their outstanding contributions to their communities through music.
“These musicians exemplify the spirit of the Music’s In Our Blood grant,” said Ben London, Executive Director of Sonic Guild. “Each nominee has demonstrated a deep commitment to making a positive impact in our community, and we are thrilled to honor them.”
The top 10 nominees will have the opportunity to perform live at a Bloodworks donation center, with each receiving a $500 micro-grant honorarium. The public will have the chance to vote for two winners, who will each receive a $2500 unrestricted grant and performance opportunities.
“We are excited to showcase the talent and dedication of these musicians,” said Sue Nixon, Executive Vice President of Community and Donor Engagement at Bloodworks Northwest. “Their music has the power to inspire and unite us, and we are grateful for their contributions to our communities.”
Voting for the top 2 winners will take place in September, with the winners being honored at the Sonic Guild Grant Celebration and throughout the Bloodworks Northwest Music’s In Our Blood campaign.
Performance Release Schedule:
La Fonda July 12
Sisters Valerie & Veronica Topacio front La Fonda and have made a significant impact on their community by creating ‘Belltown Bloom,’ a local music festival that elevates marginalized voices, including womxn, non-binary artists, and the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities.
Performance: https://youtu.be/OqKQQrotAOk
Kenshi Killzzz July 19
Kenshi Killzzz uplifts marginalized voices through their work with Ground Zero Radio. Their music highlights unspoken topics, fostering unity and inclusion. By producing impactful pieces like the one on the APCC for Fox 13, Kenshi helps others feel heard and encourages them to find their voices.
Performance: https://youtu.be/jL9GSa9FkNo
Freddie Lee Toyoda July 26
Freddie Lee Toyoda, a Korean-Japanese queer trans non-binary artist, co-founded Enby Party, an all-ages, non-binary-centered festival and tape label. They advocate for QTPOC musicians, ensuring their needs are met, distributing supplies, and organizing mutual aid efforts, making the Seattle music scene brighter for QTPOC musicians.
Performance: https://youtu.be/POug8-MIS_s
Isabeau Waia’u Walker Aug 2
Isabeau Waia’u Walker, a former high school teacher, empowers marginalized voices through her music and advocacy as a native Hawaiian. Her music and work with Y La Bamba and her solo project reflects her deep engagement with culture, race, and language. Transitioning from education to music has broadened her impact, addressing important social issues through her art.
Performance: https://youtu.be/SYWHVpFd100
Lotus the Vibe Aug 9
Lotus The Vibe impacts Seattle through her work at The Heron’s Nest, transforming music festivals into inclusive events and organizing community workshops. Her music resonates deeply with listeners, and she provides free concert photography. Lotus also advocates for food sovereignty, native plant restoration, and serves as a birth and death doula.
Performance: https://youtu.be/MD98N6p1Q2I
Sara Camille Aug 16
Sara Camille supports underrepresented voices through the Seattle Queer Songwriter Showcase and the Acorn Collective, blending music, art, and nature. Her efforts to save Conor Byrne Pub and organize heartfelt events showcase her empathy and leadership, making a significant difference in individual lives and the broader community.
Performance: https://youtu.be/sSpC9WmvX3c
Natt Meek Aug 23
Natt Meek has long supported the music community by volunteering for festivals like Timber and Day In Day Out. Recently, she began sharing her own music, exemplifying the power of finding one’s voice. Natt’s journey from behind-the-scenes support to artist highlights her dedication to nurturing and empowering others in the industry.
Performance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lOBxukypICs
Alex Johnston Aug 30
Alex Johnston significantly impacts his community through his work at Seattle Children’s, teaching music to adults with autism and developmental disabilities. He creates social media music videos and has written a musical, “Rising Rainbow,” which emphasizes self-empowerment and acceptance, offering healing and catharsis through his music.
Performance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQndE5IA75g
Marshall Hugh Sept 6
Marshall Hugh is a dynamic community figure, encouraging blood donations and serving as a role model for young athletes. He founded Fremont Fridays, providing performance opportunities for local musicians and fostering community connections. Marshall’s commitment to youth development and local music highlights his transformative impact.
Performance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKKHrjQrqqk
Haley Johnsen Sept 13
Haley Johnsen, a Portland-based musician, uplifts her community through her work as a voice teacher and singer-songwriter. She empowers students of all ages to find their voices through mind and body connection techniques. During COVID-19, she volunteered with Virtual Lessons for Actual Change, teaching globally and raising funds for the NAACP Legal Defense Fund and Color of Change. Haley has also given back by performing for patients at Oregon State Hospital and Randall Children’s Hospital. Through her vulnerable songwriting, she encourages others to embrace their struggles and find hope in their authenticity.
Performance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRh9bYWZZ3E
