Prescott Community Center

Through demonstration, practice, and creative exploration, students will write, refine, and perform their own original hip-hop song. The program begins with the instructor performing two original hip-hop pieces, followed by guided listening to classic artists such as The Sugarhill Gang, KRS-One, and Kool Moe Dee. Students will explore what defines hip-hop culture and sound—rhythm, storytelling, message, and performance—and how it differs from rap alone. Next, students will be introduced to the fundamentals of lyric writing, including rhyme, flow, structure, and voice. The instructor will demonstrate how to pair lyrics with beats, using clear, engaging examples. Students will then write their own verses and experiment with beats to bring their songs to life. Throughout the class, students will listen to and respectfully critique each other’s work, learning how feedback strengthens both writing and performance. The program concludes with an optional live performance, where students can use the provided headset and speaker to confidently perform their finished hip-hop songs. Please bring a notebook, pen or pencil, water bottle and a nut-free snack.