What an incredible blessing it is to share your passion with young minds—and see them hungry for more. This year’s Rap America Project (RAP), hosted at the Boise Hive, was a resounding success.

Founded in 2024 by audio educator Brenda Francis, RAP is a volunteer- and grant-supported outreach program designed to empower individuals—especially those from low-income backgrounds—through creative expression and education. In its inaugural year, RAP received support from the National Endowment for the Arts, City of Boise Arts & History Catalyst Grant, 12th Fret Music Store, and an amazing team of Boise Hive volunteers, allowing us to pay most of our participating artists.

While 2025 saw a decline in financial donations, a powerful community spirit emerged. Both returning and new artists volunteered their time, demonstrating a deep commitment to the mission and the next generation of creatives.

The Goal: Learn, Create, Perform

Our one-week workshop was designed to guide students through the process of writing, recording, and performing an original song—all in a supportive environment surrounded by friends and family. The curriculum flowed naturally with the creative process while educating students on the history and elements of Hip Hop culture. 

What We Taught

Each day we started off with a unifying drum circle, led by Brenda, to help us get in the rhythm of making music. We kicked off the week diving into beat making and music production, analyzing students’ favorite artists and breaking down production techniques. DJ and producer Andy Idaho introduced students to turntablism, demonstrating scratch techniques and giving everyone hands-on time with the decks.

Afternoons were dedicated to creative writing with ZERO and Aspect where we explored song structure, flow patterns, and rhyme schemes. We focused on helping each student find their voice, express themselves authentically, and build confidence in their craft. We also had great conversations around AI and the role we see it playing in the world of arts and entertainment. 

Industry Insights

Beyond artistry, we brought in guest speakers to educate students on the business side of music. Rick Oliver, booking agent at RIX Entertainment, shared valuable insights on booking shows and navigating the live music scene. We also broke down music industry lingo and terminology around equipment, venues, and event planning to give students a full picture of what goes on behind the curtain.

Real-World Inspiration

Once students had a foundational understanding of Hip Hop, we wanted them to experience it live. We hosted a Hip Hop Showcase at Realms Arcade featuring our mentor artists—Andy Idaho, Axiom Tha Wyze, Aspect, B-Love, and ZERO—with a headlining set by our good friends Eleven & Jason D. It was a high-energy night that let students feel the heartbeat of the culture: peace, love, unity, and having fun.

We followed up with a field trip to Treefort Music Hall, where Eric Gilbert, CEO of Duck Club Entertainment, gave students a behind-the-scenes tour of one of Boise’s premier venues. Eric spoke about the importance of community and collaboration in music, and how artists and venues work together to bring shows to life.

Recording and Performance

With spirits high and notebooks full, students prepped for the studio. B-Love (Tasha) led vocal warmups, and students recorded the songs they’d been working on all week. Teaching them different recording techniques and watching their faces light up when they delivered their first rhymes in the booth was pure magic.

To cap off the week, we planned a final performance at the Boise Hive. Students and mentors decided on a shared lineup—alternating between teacher and student performances—to showcase their work. We helped them with stage presence, breathing techniques, and overcoming pre-show nerves. They stepped up, owned the mic, and lit up the stage with confidence and passion.

The Impact

Some students who had never considered music before found a new outlet for expression. Others who already had a spark left with their flames burning brighter. Every single student showed growth, courage, and creative joy—absorbing the lessons and energy we hoped to share.

What’s Next

We’re excited to grow the Rap America Project, continuing to support youth in our community while expanding to include all-ages seminars and advanced programs for aspiring artists looking to take their passion to the next level.

“Wherever I go, I bring the culture with me, so that they can understand that it’s attainable. I didn’t do it any other way than through hip-hop.”
— Jay-Z