"Smart Songs" teach Native history

'Smart Songs' gives lesson on Native American history

By George PennacchioTwo guys who sing about social studies have done songs about the Constitution, our presidents, state capitals, even the flag. Their latest musical lesson involves American Indians.

This Native American-inspired tune is the latest in a series of hip-hop "smart songs." Their aim is to entertain and to inspire learning. Think of this as "schoolhouse rap" for today's young generation.

Smart Songs co-creator Jeff DuJardin spent months reading, writing and researching, putting together all the pieces.

"It was a very involved process to create this project," said DuJardin. "I have a friend on the East Coast who composed the beat and the music. I have a friend right here in L.A. who did the mixing and the mastering. We got some guys, about four different guys, filming it.

"We went to about three different pow-wows and met with a bunch of different Native Americans at these pow-wows," said DuJardin.

Initially, DuJardin says, the Native Americans they met were hesitant to become involved with their project, but when they learned it was to help educate kids on American Indian history, they were happy to help. A dozen or so even took part in the music video.Comment:  For more on Indians and rap, see Fiasco Raps About Pine Ridge and Crow Rapper Supaman.