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Randal Wells (formerly known as, Random Wright) is an American R&B/Soul recording artist and advocate for foster care youth. Born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Wells overcame a tumultuous childhood in the foster care system to become a recognized artist and passionate community activist.
Early Life
editRandal Wells was born in Bridgeport, CT. His early life was marked by hardship when his mother, grandmother, and he had to flee their home due to his father's alcoholism. At age six, Randal's mother died of breast cancer, leading to his placement in the child welfare system in South Florida. He moved frequently between foster homes and group homes and was labeled a juvenile delinquent. During this time, Wells found solace in music, writing, and singing as a way to escape the difficulties of his reality.
Music Career
editWells began his music career under the stage name Random Wright[1]. He gained initial recognition in the early 2000s by writing and recording music while living in foster care. His persistence paid off when he was cast on the MTV series Making the Band 4. This opportunity led him to relocate from Hollywood, Florida, to Los Angeles, where he further pursued his music career. As Random Wright, he released music that was featured on various television shows, including *Keeping Up with the Kardashians*. He was named a "Know Them Now[2]" artist by BMI and performed at major events like the SXSW Music Festival. His music has accumulated thousands of streams worldwide.
In 2011, Randal Wells, still known as Random Wright[3], released the single "Who I Am[4]," which was well-received and highlighted his journey through the music industry.
Advocacy Work
editWells' experience in the foster care system fueled his passion for advocacy. At 15, he became involved in Florida's State Youth Advisory Board and eventually served as its President. In this role, he played a pivotal part in lobbying for and passing the "Road to Independence Act[5]," which extended benefits for foster youth from age 21 to 23. This act has impacted thousands of young people across the state.
In 2020, Randal Wells launched the Foster Tales Podcast,[6] which shares stories from the foster care community. The podcast has reached audiences in over 27 countries and earned him the title of Content Creator of the Year[7] from Foster More. The podcast has been recognized as one of the top in its genre[8] for its powerful storytelling and advocacy. In 2023, Randal was given a Certificate of Recognition from the City of Los Angeles, from Mayor, Karen Bass.
Recognition and Recent Work
editRandal Wells was honored at Paramount Studios with the Jordan Award[9], at the Kids in the Spotlight (KITS) Film Awards[10] as part of the FOX LA Community Champions series[11], recognizing his contributions to the foster care community and his work in the entertainment industry. Additionally, he has been featured in Getty Images for his appearance at the Grammy Awards[12] under his former stage name, Random Wright. Now performing under his legal name, Randal Wells, he continues to release music [13]that reflects his life experiences. His lead single, "Strangers with Memories[14]," is a testament to his journey and the emotions derived from his upbringing. Wells also maintains a prominent role in the entertainment industry, where he balances his music career with his work as a content creator, mentor, and advocate for foster youth.
References
edit- ^ "Discogs discography".
- ^ "BMI Hosts DRINKSHOP Live & ATL 'Know Them Now' Contest Showcase". BMI.com. 2011-07-26. Retrieved 2024-09-02.
- ^ a b "Random Wright". January 20, 2016.
- ^ a b "Random Wright – Who I Am - Singersroom.com". June 16, 2011.
- ^ "Chapter 409 Section 1451 - 2007 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate". www.flsenate.gov. Retrieved 2024-09-02.
- ^ "Foster Tales". Apple Podcasts. Retrieved 2024-09-02.
- ^ "FosterMore - FosterMoreys". FosterMore. Retrieved 2024-09-02.
- ^ "35 Best Foster Care Podcasts You Must Follow in 2024". FeedSpot for Podcasters. 2020-01-09. Retrieved 2024-09-02.
- ^ Thacker, Madison. "Lights, camera, hope: Kids in the Spotlight inspires foster youth to tell their stories". The Mirror. Retrieved 2024-09-02.
- ^ "KITS Film Awards 2024". kitsinc.org. 2024-01-07. Retrieved 2024-09-02.
- ^ a b Devine, Christine (November 30, 2023). "Community Champions: KITS Film Awards". FOX 11.
- ^ a b https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/news-photo/musical-artist-random-wright-arrives-at-the-grammy-news-photo/160967159
- ^ Patrick, Natalie (2022-11-15). "Randal Wells Has Just Released His Debut Single "Strangers with Memories"". HypeFresh Inc. Retrieved 2024-09-02.
- ^ Strangers with Memories - Single by Randal Wells on Apple Music, 2022-11-11, retrieved 2024-09-02