Despite his super stardom and success, rapper Kanye West hasn’t forgotten about the struggles of his hometown of Chicago. That’s why the Chi-town native is teaming up with his fellow rapper Che “Rhymefest” Smith to give back to troubled youth with the upcoming launch of his “Got Bars” music writing and production program.
In August, West’s nonprofit organization, Donda’s House — founded in honor of his late mother Dr. Donda West — and the ARK of St. Sabina community center will debut the 10-week course open to at-risk youth ages 15 to 24. The “Got Bars” program aims to educate participants on how to write and record their own music and in turn help them to develop problem-solving skills. The program will also teach youth about the benefits of eating well, working out and other life skills.
West credits his mother’s passion to teaching as the inspiration behind the program. “My mom spent her life as an educator and I am happy Donda’s House can pick up the torch and honor her life’s mission,” West said in a statement early last week.
Rhymefest, who also serves as co-founder and assistant director of Donda’s House , will spearhead the program, overseeing all music and production aspects of the 10-week course. “I am so happy to launch “Got Bars” to honor Kanye West’s mother’s memory and to fulfill one of my Alder manic campaign goals,” said Rhymefest in a statement. “Got Bars” will change our youth musically, get them healthy and keep them busy in a creative, peaceful environment.” Donda’s House will eventually release an EP featuring songs from the program’s participants.
We sure love a celebrity who doesn’t forget about his roots. Way to be, Kanye.
Kanye Loves the Kids: Rapper Launches “Got Bars” Music Program for Chicago Youth was originally published on giantlife.com
