At just 17 years old, Reed started his own non-profit called “Inspire the Fire.” Serving approx 400 youth yearly, Reed’ s non profit helps young people succeed on stage and in life. Youth often enter the program beset by many challenges. The arts reaches students who are not otherwise being reached. Over 5,000 youth have found a safe haven at Inspire The Fire since it’ s inception. Reed’ s nonprofit has become a ” movement” and garnered national attention as finalist on NBC’ s “America ‘ s Got Talent” praised by Howard Stern as the “Urban Glee.” The late Dr. Maya Angelou praised the group at the Biltmore House exclaiming ” you ‘ re better than you think you are.” later Reed would be invited by Oprah Winfrey to celebrate Angelou ‘ s legacy at two events. Awarded by 3 Charlotte Mayor ‘ s with “Inspire The Fire Day, ” Reed and his non profit continue serving hundreds through the arts and service. The Music career for Reed has no signs of slowing down. BMI John Lennon Award Winning Songwriter. Third place winner of the International songwriting competition. Reed and his music group received GRAMMY® certificates for their work on the GRAMMY Award-winning project, O Happy Day featuring Bono, Josh Stone, Queen Latifah, Mavis Staples etc. Recognized for their talent, Reed & his group GAP were selected to perform at the 2012 Democratic National Convention for President Obama with American Idol Finalist Jessica Sanchez. Recently, Reed made Billboard history with the No 1. song, “Necessary”.
