SoCal Tweens Rock Out To Raise Awareness About Bullying

SHERMAN OAKS (KCAL9) — A group of tweens from the San Fernando Valley are rocking out across the country to raise awareness about bullying.

Breaking 27, a band made up of five 11 to 13 year olds, has embarked on a nationwide tour of middle schools to warn students about the dangers of verbal and physical abuse in the classroom.

The young musicians said they were inspired to make a difference after watching the documentary film, "Bully."

"We all got together after the movie and we were talking about it," said keyboard player, Kailey Galinson. "(Our music director said) 'Hey, let's write a song about this, so kids can hear that this is bad.'"

Guitarist Edan Wingfield said their original song, called "We Like to Watch", is "about the bystander just watching and not doing anything… because they're hurting the victim, just as much as the bullies."

Drummer Max Wright said students understand their anti-bullying message when the band performs at various assemblies.

"I saw some kids crying on one of the softer songs, (which) meant that they're actually getting it because they're feeling emotional and feeling sad for what's happening," Wright said.

The kids also created a music video for the song with the help of classmates and music industry pros.

Mark "Muddy" Dutton, the band's music director, said the children rehearse about 12 hours a week to perfect their music and message.

"They really do (treat it like a responsibility). They take it more seriously than I do. They really work hard. They're rehearsing a lot right now," he said.

Breaking 27 has played gigs at the World Famous Roxy and The Whisky on the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles.

For more information about the Break the Bully Tour, visit the band's website.