Dear Whitman Faculty & Friends,

Whitman's Recording Studio Club, The Collective, co-advised by Matt Hoffman and Vito Monti, just dropped its first ever rap track, titled “Crying All Alone.”

The song was written and performed by Destan Oz, a humble and talented student at Whitman’s respected Alternative High School, headed by Joann Hili-Carbone.  The beat was produced by Andrew Lorente, also known as DJ ALo, and Addie Balogun sang back up vocals to give the track a beautiful, melodic hook. The vibrant and catchy cover art was created by Lily O’Phelan and the album’s graphic design and final mastering were completed by Whitman alumnus Josh Joseph.

Click HERE to listen to the track and read the lyrics.

After seven years of prolific songwriting, recording and publishing, the club’s advisors and students have decided to move forward with the design and construction of a new Studio B Facility in an effort to make new recording space for its growing membership of student musicians, songwriters and engineers. This year’s club, which is currently working with new artists from Whitman’s ENL population, hailing from Central American countries such as El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras, is poised to release new, original tracks written and performed in Spanish.

The 2023 Collective band, Middle Ground, which features Addie Balogun, Alex Feliciano, Chris Ortez, Andrew Lorente, Andrew Fogel and Aaron Cimadevilla, has made a name for itself after playing at The Xanadu-Collective Concert, Black History Month Extravaganza and International Night. The band’s talent and social outreach have earned it a spot at this summer’s Heckscher Park Music Festival.

The Collective Recording Studio’s increasing popularity and continued success are a testament to The South Huntington School District’s continued support and subsequent rise as a leading innovator and supporter of music and arts on Long Island.

With gratitude,

Vito Monti & Matt Hoffman

Advisors - The Collective

WWHS Recording Studio