(AllHipHop News) Kanye West is helping to implement a new music writing program for at-risk youth in the South Side of Chicago. “Got Bars” will be a collaborative effort between the ARK of St. Sabina youth center and the Donda’s House Non-Profit organization. Donda’s House was named for West’s late mother Dr. Donda West.
“My mom spent her life as an educator, and I am happy that Donda’s House can pick up her torch and honor her life’s mission,” said Kanye in a statement.
The program will work with students between the ages of 15-24 to teach them how to write and record music. Upon completion an EP of the participant’s recordings will be released. “Got Bars” will also provide lessons on exercise, yoga, nutrition, media-literacy, and etiquette training.
“Art instruction and particularly music instruction leads people to become better problem solvers, more flexible,” said Donnie Smith, Donda’s House Executive Director. “There are just so many outcomes that come from the study of music and particularly music writing.”
As Donda’s House’s co-founder and assistant director, Che “Rhymefest” Smith will be on hand to instruct participants in the writing and recording process in a professional studio.
“I am so happy to launch ‘Got Bars’ to honor Kanye West’s mother’s memory and to fulfill one of my Aldermanic campaign goals. ‘Got Bars’ will change our youth musically, get them healthy and keep them busy in a creative, peaceful environment,” added Rhymefest.
The initial program will run from August through October of this year. Those interested in participating in “Got Bars” can apply at dondashouse.com through August 2.
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