Welcome to
Renaissance School of the Arts
Collaborations
FAKE FRIENDS | RSA X R.H.Y.M.E​
R.H.Y.M.E x Renaissance School of the Arts
FEBRUARY 27, 2026
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We’re proud to celebrate another powerful creative collaboration with the Renaissance School of the Arts (RSA)!
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Since 2021, Thrive Collective and RSA’s staff and students have partnered on multiple mural and music projects that highlight the community’s talent, creativity, diversity, and unity. Each collaboration has amplified student voice while strengthening the culture of the school.
We’re excited to premiere “Fake Friends” — an original song and music video written and performed by RSA middle school students. Guided by Thrive Collective teaching artists Jason Roberts and Godfrey Moye, students explore the theme of friendship, unpacking the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships — a reality many young people navigate every day.
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In his second R.H.Y.M.E. appearance, RSA Principal Mr. Wilson steps into the spotlight with an original verse of his own. His participation models authentic leadership — not just creating opportunities for students, but stepping into those opportunities alongside them. That kind of presence speaks volumes.
Special thanks to Amanda Nater, Parent Coordinator, for her leadership and dedication in helping make this project and partnership a success.
Cover art by Joshua Gabriel.
Music video shot and edited by Eric Mason
Audio engineering by JSWISS, Jason Roberts, and Godfrey Moye
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“Fake Friends” is more than a song — it’s student voice, mentorship, and community in motion.
R.H.Y.M.E x RSA - PERSEVER (Music Video)
June 2023
Thrive Collective/R.H.Y.M.E. collaborated with Renaissance School of the Arts to create the song Persevere. Through the course of 16 weeks students and teaching artist connected to learn about hip-hop, song writing, music production, recording and performance. From the song concept to understanding how to write and count bars students we're equipped to be thriving artists within the student body at RSA. Persevere details about students dealing with adversity and finding the best way possible to avoid things getting worst. Principal Wilson from RSA delivers a closing verse that sums the whole song up.
NY Art Director: Randy Mason
Lead Teaching Artist: Kevin "Advice" Toledo
Program Manager: Jason "Conquest" Roberts
Video Director: Eric Mason In Partnership With: Renaissance School of the Arts
Special Verse: Principal Wilson
MY PASSION OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO / RSA RHYME x
June 2022
R.H.Y.M.E (Rhymes Help Young Minds Excel) 2022 music and mentoring program in collaboration with the Renaissance School Of The Arts in East Harlem NYC. Students learned about the art of rapping, storytelling and songwriting through a series of workshops where participants wrote and recorded an original song and shot a music video highlighting the things that they're most passionate about. The music video also features Thrive Collective school murals by Marissa Molina, Michela Muserra, and Toofly. Check out the video to hear what the students had to say about passion.
Credits Renaissance School Of The Arts middle school scholars
Lead teaching artist: Rob Ayala
Project manager: Josh James
Beat By: Rob Ayala
Cover Art by: Rob Ayala
Audio recording by: Christian Penn
Video by: Eric Mason
Citizen Schools, It's June All Year & RSA's Class Flow
Music and mentorship have the power to transform young lives by offering creative expression, emotional support, and a sense of purpose. Through music, young people find a voice, build confidence, and connect with others across cultures and experiences. Mentorship deepens that journey—guiding, inspiring, and empowering youth to pursue their passions, navigate challenges, and believe in their potential. Together, music and mentorship create a powerful force for growth, resilience, and lifelong learning.
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