Day 13. Sean Forbes Amplifying Deaf Stories Through Music.

When people think of hip-hop and rap, they often associate it with beats, rhythm, and spoken word. But Sean Forbes, a Deaf rapper, songwriter, and activist, has redefined what it means to experience and create music. Through his powerful lyrics, vibrant visual performances, and commitment to accessibility, Forbes has opened doors for Deaf representation in the music industry.

Who Is Sean Forbes?

Sean Forbes was born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1982 to a family of musicians. His parents were music lovers, and his father played in a rock band. At just a few months old, Forbes lost most of his hearing due to spinal meningitis.

Despite being Deaf, music was in his blood. He grew up feeling the vibrations of rock and hip-hop music, drumming along to beats, and developing a deep passion for rhythm.

Forbes refused to let the industry’s barriers define him. Instead, he found his own way to connect music with Deaf culture.

A Career Built on Innovation

🎤 Deaf Hip-Hop Artist: Forbes is a groundbreaking rapper and musician who creates music for both Deaf and hearing audiences. His songs incorporate American Sign Language (ASL), visual storytelling, and rhythmic beats.
🎼 First Deaf Rap Album: In 2020, he released Little Victories, which hit No. 1 on the iTunes Hip-Hop charts—a historic achievement for a Deaf artist.
📺 Music Videos in ASL: Unlike traditional music videos, Forbes’ videos blend sign language, captions, and vibrant visuals to make music accessible.
🎵 Co-Founder of D-PAN: Forbes co-founded the Deaf Professional Arts Network (D-PAN), a nonprofit that produces ASL-accessible music videos and promotes Deaf artists in the entertainment industry.

Breaking Barriers in the Music World

Forbes was often told that music wasn’t for Deaf people—but he proved otherwise.

🔹 He performs live, using visuals, lighting, and heavy bass vibrations so Deaf audiences can fully engage.
🔹 He collaborates with famous musicians, such as Eminem, who has supported his mission.
🔹 He advocates for better accessibility in the music industry, pushing for captioned lyrics, ASL interpreters, and Deaf artist inclusion.

Through his work, Forbes challenges the assumption that Deaf people can’t enjoy or create music—instead, he celebrates how Deaf culture uniquely experiences sound.

How You Can Support Deaf Musicians

🎧 Listen to Deaf artists like Sean Forbes—check out Little Victories and other Deaf-led music projects.
🎬 Watch ASL music videos—support organizations like D-PAN that make music accessible.
📢 Advocate for accessible concerts—ask for captions, interpreters, and vibrating floor technology at venues.
🎤 Share Deaf musicians’ work—spread the word about artists who are changing the industry.

Resources to Explore

📚 Books & Articles
📖 Music Is for Everyone: Deaf and Hard of Hearing Musicians – National Association of the Deaf

🎥 Videos & Performances
▶️ Sean Forbes – “Watch These Hands”
▶️ Sean Forbes – “Little Victories”

Reflection

Sean Forbes proves that music belongs to everyone—not just those who can hear, but those who can feel, see, and express it in their own unique way. We invite you to reflect on how music moves us all in different ways.

💬 What are your favorite Deaf music performances?
💬 In what ways can music bring us together, regardless of our backgrounds and experiences?

Next, we’ll explore painter Chuck Baird’s works and impact in the fine arts.

Learn more: Learn more about the projects services offered by the Deaf Professional Arts Network, including D-PAN tv.

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#UU #UUA #CelebrateDiversity #DeafCulture #DeafHistoryMonth #DisabilityAwareness #SeanForbes #DPAN #ASLinMusic