Rap Artist Classified Visits Phoenix!
Classified (middle back row) with Phoenix Youth and Staff at Phoenix House on Hunter Street.
Most music enthusiasts know that when they turn on their favourite Canadian music stations, they are bound to catch the latest song by rap artist Classified. Most recently, his popular video for the track Oh Canada has been in heavy rotation on Much Music, Much More Music and Much Vibe. Beyond television and radio popularity, Classified, whose real name is Luke Boyd, recently won an East Coast Music Award and has been nominated for three JUNO awards. It’s been a pretty good year for this young artist hailing from Enfield, Nova Scotia. But to Classified, success is about a lot more than awards and air time; it’s also about giving back.
On Wednesday, March 10th, excited staff and youth gathered at Phoenix House on Hunter Street to meet the rap star who was eager to get involved. “My wife heard Kyle’s (a Phoenix youth's) story at the Nutcracker Luncheon in December,” says Classified. “His story changed her life and perspective. It inspired me to reach out.”
Although Classified had a tight family and a secure upbringing, he was different than the mainstream crowd. “I always felt like I struggled to fit in,” commented Classified. “No one in Enfield listened to hip hop other than me and a few friends. It just showed me how hard it is to fit in and what it can feel like to be alone.” That understanding was another motivating factor in Classified’s visit to Phoenix House.
After a tour of our long-term residence, Classified met with several of our youth for a discussion and photo shoot. Phoenix and Classified are eager to grow this relationship. “I want to keep in touch and meet Kyle and some of the other youth,” says Classified. “I’m hoping to visit the Phoenix Shelter next.”
Thank you, Classified, for taking the time to visit our youth and for writing such inspiring lyrics! Our youth are looking forward to seeing you again!
