Young Dro is Teaching Lyricism at Morehouse as Part of Breaking the Chains Summer Program for Youth 

Atlanta has always been a city where music and community go hand in hand. From the legacy of LaFace Records to the rise of LVRN, a thriving indie scene, and plenty of curated spaces nestled all over the city for connection and performance, it’s a long standing safe haven for hip-hop and R&B. 

Naturally, ATL is flooded with students dreaming of careers in the music industry – inspired by the footsteps of legends (and city natives) like André 3000, Lil Baby, or Metro Boomin to name a few. 

Thankfully, nonprofits like Breaking the Chains are helping those dreams take shape in real time. The organization creates real opportunities for teens across the country to learn from experienced artists and mentors, supporting them with hands-on guidance in songwriting, music production, performance, and entrepreneurship. 

This summer the ATL legacy got even more personal when the Grand Hustle boy himself, Young Dro, a long-time respected Atlanta lyricist, stepped in to teach Lyricism 101 at Morehouse College. 

The class was part of the Breaking the Chains Summer Music Program, a collaboration with Morehouse that leverages the school’s resources and music education expertise to give teens a space to grow as artists and young people finding their voice.  

Breaking the Chains Worldwide, Inc. is More Than Just Music

Breaking the Chains Worldwide, Inc. is a nonprofit with a mission to empower the youth through creative arts, mental wellness, and entrepreneurship. Their creative and unconventional approach blends education and entertainment; thoughtfully curating programs that combine music, STEAM, trauma healing, and career development. They even have Physics workshops that explore sound frequencies and the science behind music to really challenge students to think more deeply about how music really connects with their bodies and minds. 

Over the years, Breaking the Chains has built a successful track record, garnering community support from organizations and industry giants. They curate spaces like college summits or the Annual Youth Entrepreneurship and Talent Expo. These events have drawn large crowds and featured people like Drumma Boy Fresh, and other local talent, giving teens the chance to show off their skills and connect with job or mentorship opportunities. 

The Moment That Mattered

Young Dro’s recent visit to Morehouse College as part of the BTC Music Program was a huge win for both the students and organization. These collaborations are a clear indicator that these moments do more than provide a learning space, but remind us of the importance of access and community. For students, it’s the chance to really see that these artists are real people and their own goals, no matter how big or unattainable they may seem, are within reach.

The energy in the room was high as Dro dished on personal stories, answered questions, and took the lead of the lyricism workshop. He even put the students to the test–challenging them to freestyle on the spot, and they wasted no time letting shyness stop them from rising to the occasion. 

Throughout the rest of the summer program, students had a chance to also learn about the history of music, music theory, marketing techniques, and how to record in the studio. 

Morehouse College is Committed to Community and Inclusion 

Morehouse College’s music program has long been an advocate of community engagement, hosting programs like Breaking the Chains music program or participating in the annual 96-Hour Opera Project to provide a unique cultural experience for students–all part of its broader commitment to making arts education accessible, innovative, and inclusive.

Want to support more moments like this? Learn more about Breaking the Chains Worldwide, Inc. and how you can get involved here.