20 Reasons Why Atlanta is America’s Music Capital

We give back

Atlanta’s musicians are known for their generosity—2 Chainz once provided a five-bedroom house for a family of 11 for a year, and Ludacris gifted 20 cars to families in need. Here’s a look at some other hometown heroes:

Photograph by Scott Gries/Getty

Usher, Grammy-winning R&B artist who graduated from North Springs High School in Sandy Springs
Organization: Usher’s New Look Foundation
Cause: Helping underserved youth grow into global youth leaders

Photograph courtesy of Primary Wave

CeeLo Green, Atlanta native and Grammy-winning rapper, also a longtime judge on NBC’s The Voice
Organization: Greenhouse Foundation
Cause: Inspiring children from disadvantaged areas to become good stewards of the environment

Photograph by Giulio Marcocchi/Getty

Jorel “JFly” Flynn, a drummer from Waycross who has toured or recorded with artists like Peabo Bryson, Jennifer Holliday, and Aretha Franklin
Organization: How Big Is Your Dream Foundation
Cause: Providing youth with music and arts education

Photograph by Kevork Djansezian/Getty

Zac Brown, a Grammy-winning performer, songwriter, and producer, this country singer was born in Atlanta and grew up in Dahlonega.
Organization: Camp Southern Ground
Cause: Offering camps for children with autism, learning challenges, and other special needs