The New Directions Veterans Choir has been around for years performing at hundreds of events. They recently performed at the 2016 Rose Bowl Parade.
But they have a great history including their breakout performance in 2010 on NBC’s America’s Got Talent. Since then they have been featured on NBC Nightly News, E! News and more. They’ve performed at hundreds of events big and small and have been performing for over a decade.
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The Choir members met each other at New Directions, a facility that helps homeless veterans with jobs and housing so they can get back on their feet. Their stories are touching.
One of the members, Carlton Griffin was homeless for over 25 years. In his words he, “grabbed his shopping cart and walked 28 miles to New Directions and got my life together.”
Their message is that it is ok for a warrior to seek help and that is an important message.
Just a few of their outings with Jay Leno and Dan Aykroyd.
From their website (which you should visit!):
The New Directions Veterans Choir is an award winning a cappella group that sings renditions of doo-wop, soul, traditional gospel and popular music. The Choir is comprised primarily of men and women who have served proudly in the United States Military. Following their service to our country, they became homeless. New Directions gave them hope and direction. These talented veterans are an inspiration to others.
“Listening to a great choir is pleasure enough; listening to one composed of residents of New Directions makes the music all that sweeter. They have my undying support and admiration.” – Joe Mantegna, Celebrated Actor and Long-time Military Supporter
The New Directions Veterans Choir got their “big break” on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” and since then has been featured on the NBC Nightly News and E! Entertainment Television.
“It’s been said, ‘What doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger.’ I believe the most beautiful child of struggle is art. Witness the soulful, elegant sounds of the New Directions Veterans Choir. Survivors of war and homelessness, theirs is a song of healing, triumph and rebirth that the whole world needs to hear!”
– Paul Williams, Composer, Lyricist, Producer
George Hill, choir founder and director, was homeless for 12 years, living in and around MacArthur Park and is a graduate of New Directions.
Here they are on America’s Got Talent
And here they are at the 2016 Rose Bowl Parade singing God Bless America:
What did you think of the performance? Let us know in the comments below!
And don’t forget to go “Like” their Facebook page!
