7 Questions with Let The Beat Build
A beat is just the start. It can unlock confidence, creativity, and a world of opportunity. Let The Beat Build, a valued program partner of Big Thought, is using music, technology, and mentorship to empower young people across North Texas. With a focus on self-expression and skill development, they’re helping the next generation transform their creativity into a pathway for success. We caught up with Russell Lopez, Co-Founder & Executive Director of Let The Beat Build to dive deeper into the impact of their work.
Q: What inspired the creation of Let The Beat Build, and what is the mission and vision driving your work?
RL: “Let The Beat Build was born out of the belief that music is more than just sound—it’s a bridge to self-expression, healing, and transformation. Our mission is to provide young people, especially those in underserved communities, with access to music technology, mentorship, and life skills that stretch beyond the studio. By blending creative education with mental wellness, we empower students to find their voice, build confidence, and create a foundation for lifelong success. The inspiration for Let The Beat Build came from our co-founders— myself (Russell Lopez) and Brian Allen—both music producers with over two decades of experience, witnessing firsthand how music can be more than an art form. It’s a vehicle for healing, connection, personal development, and growth. Through our work, we’ve seen how music helps kids process emotions, build relationships, and unlock their full potential.
Q: What communities does Let The Beat Built primarily serve?
RL: We primarily serve youth all over Dallas, as well as areas in Tarrant County. These are students who might not otherwise have access to arts education, or the tools needed to create music. Our reach includes schools, after-school programs, juvenile detention centers, community organizations, mental health centers, children’s hospitals, and homeless shelters. We are committed to inclusivity, ensuring that every young person—regardless of their background—can tap into their creativity, gain industry-relevant skills, and see a future for themselves in creative industries.
Q: What are some of the most impactful moments you’ve experienced through Let The Beat Build?
RL: Some of the most powerful moments come from seeing students light up when they hear their first completed beat played out loud, sneaking peeks at their peers to gauge their reactions—their nervous curiosity quickly turning into hopeful smiles as they soak in the positive feedback from their classmates. Watching reluctant learners gain confidence through music is inspiring, but what’s equally impactful is seeing high schoolers evolve into mentors after receiving training and professional development to become young teaching assistants (music specialists) for our K-5 programming. Seeing them take the lead, guide younger kids, and share their knowledge reinforces the transformative power of our program.”
One unforgettable moment was hosting recent leadership summit where school principals and district leaders created, wrote and performed songs about their schools and the students they serve. It wasn’t just a workshop—it was a moment of real connection and building deeper understanding between educators and the youth they support, proving that music is a universal language that fosters unity and empowerment.
Q: Why do you believe opportunities like this are essential for young people today?
RL: In today’s digital world, creative outlets aren’t just entertainment—they’re essential. Young people need ways to express themselves, manage their emotions, and build skills that will carry them into adulthood. Many face barriers to creative education and we provide an accessible way for them to explore their talents, gain confidence, and develop real-world skills. These programs do more than teach music—they provide a sense of purpose, community, and a vision for the future.
Q: In what ways has Let The Beat Build grown and evolved over the years?
RL: But none of this would be possible without our incredible staff—the passionate, dedicated individuals who make every moment of this program an unforgettable experience. We are so fortunate to have found people who genuinely care about making a difference, investing in the youth we serve, and helping us bring this vision to life. Their commitment and energy inspire us every day, and we are deeply grateful for their role in shaping the future of Let The Beat Build.
Q: What skills do students develop from this experience?
RL: Let The Beat Build helps students develop a unique mix of technical, entrepreneurial, and social-emotional skills:
- Technical Skills: Hands-on experience with digital audio workstations, beat-making, sound design, and studio recording.
- Entrepreneurial Skills: Branding, negotiation, and financial literacy through our Beat Bucks system, helping students understand the value of their work.
- Social-Emotional Learning: Confidence building, emotional resilience, and self-expression through music creation.
- Collaboration & Leadership: Working in teams, mentoring peers, and presenting their work to audiences—all key life skills that extend beyond music.
Q: If you could tell people one thing about Let The Beat Build, what would it be?
RL: Let The Beat Build is more than a program—it’s an ecosystem of creativity, empowerment, and opportunity. We don’t just teach music production; we give young people a platform to express themselves, develop critical life skills, and unlock doors they never knew existed. Our students don’t just make beats—they build futures and the soundtrack to their growth.”
To learn more about how they’re making a difference, visit www.letthebeatbuild.me or connect with them on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn. Join them in their mission to uplift, inspire, and foster positive change – one beat at a time.