"Youth Culture Power," released on May 31, 2019, is a captivating jazz rap album by J. Rawls, in collaboration with John Robinson. This 36-minute journey through 11 tracks is a unique blend of music and education, offering a fresh perspective on building teacher-student relationships and increasing student engagement. The album is a manifestation of Jay ARE's philosophy, Youth Culture Pedagogy, which aims to bridge the gap between educators and students through the power of hip-hop.
The album kicks off with "YCP," featuring Tiffany Paige, setting the tone for the thoughtful and engaging content that follows. Tracks like "Classroom Chatter" and "We Ain't Failing" delve into the realities of the classroom, while interludes featuring Dr. Ladson-Billings and other voices provide insightful commentary. "XYZ" and "Get on Board" showcase J. Rawls' lyrical prowess and unique flow, making this album a standout in the jazz rap genre.
"Youth Culture Power" is not just an album; it's a conversation starter, a classroom tool, and a testament to the power of music in education. Released under Polar Entertainment LLC/Beatvision, this album is a compelling listen for fans of jazz rap and anyone interested in the intersection of hip-hop and education.