Daydreamin'? Lupe Fiasco’s MIT rap course resonates with millions

Grammy-winning rapper Lupe Fiasco shared exciting news on Facebook this week, announcing that the first YouTube video introducing his course Rap Theory & Practice has reached two million views.

Now in its third year at MIT, Rap Theory & Practice is a dynamic and immersive course designed for aspiring rap artists and enthusiasts. The class offers a unique blend of in-class and field activities, fostering both individual creativity and group collaboration. According to Fiasco, the course explores and expands on "what it means to be a rapper at the highest levels of academia."

The course includes weekly in-class freestyle training sessions aimed at enhancing students’ improvisational abilities and lyrical agility. It also culminates in a rap-based final project, allowing students to showcase their artistic growth and learnings throughout the training.

Lupe Fiasco, whose real name is Wasalu Muhammad Jaco, is an American rapper and record producer. He is best known for hits such as Superstar, The Show Goes On, Samurai, and Prisoner 1&2.

In 2008, Fiasco earned his first Grammy Award for Best Urban/Alternative Performance with Daydreamin’, featuring Jill Scott. The track served as the third single from his 2006 debut album, Lupe Fiasco’s Food & Liquor.