Walking into Wyatt Edison Charter Elementary School during its after-hours program isn't unlike entering a hip-hop club for kids - minus the music, funky lighting and alcohol license.

There's shouting. There's mischief. There's boys chasing girls, girls chasing the boys, some kids strutting and some happy to blend into the scenery.

And kids are more than happy to tell you what music they're listening to - or not. Zaquala McGee, 11, is a fan of Beyoncé but came to the defense of the late Tupac Shakur, asociated with the Bloods and recognized as a seminal founder of gangsta rap.

"Tupac wasn't doing bad things," Zaquala said, although Shakur had a rap sheet suggesting the contrary. "He was just singing about the real life."

Victoria Reagor, also an 11-year-old fifth-grader, agreed. "His songs are like the truth. Like when he says, 'I Wonder If Heaven Got a Ghetto,' he isn't just talking about guns and drive-bys and taking girls home."

DaShaune Grant-Newson, a 10-year-old fifth-grader, sees rappers like Shakur almost like reporters. "It's really like he's telling the truth about the way it is. He's in the 'hood, on the streets, rapping about it."

Some of the youngsters believe artists are role models and should act accordingly. Aaron Payne, an 11-year-old fifth-grader, said "When people watch the music videos, they can be inspired to go out there and try to act like them . . . like they're rappers. That's wrong."

The preteens said they listen to more than hip-hop. A couple admitted enjoying a little jazz, and several mentioned gospel.

"I listen to some gospel," mostly at his godmother's, DaShaune said. "It tells you more about God that you should know."

Former gangmember Eric Stevenson, now an Open Door Youth Gang Alternatives staffer, invited youngsters to write essays about the music in their lives. Most are students at the Wyatt Edison Charter Elementary School. Here are some excerpts, in their words. For the complete essays, go to RockyMountain News.com.

Hip-hop, in general

I like to listen to rap or as you say hip hop is because I'm a good dancer and I like to dance to it. I think thats the only music I can dance to. Another reason why I like it because thats the only music I really listen to because my twin brother Gabriel and (another) brother Ny-aire always are bumping it loud enough, on the radio or computer. . . .

By your future hip-hop star, Gabrielle Reaves

Artist: The Game

The Game went from gangbangin in Compton to a talented rapper. Life in Compton wasn't easy. He grew up without his father and later on was robbed and shot in a dope spot. Thats when he decided to focus on his rap style. He got signed to Fifty Cent's G Unit but left after a short time due to a arguement with Fifty. Now he's doing his own thing. His music inspires me and makes me believe that no matter where you come from you can make it if you believe.

DaShaune Grant-Newson, 10, fifth grade

Artist: Ludacris

Ludachris's lyrics (Runaway Luv) influence me alot because it makes me think about life, and how I can make the right choices. Ludachris's lyrics also influence me because he speaks the truth and talks about stuff that really happens, and stuff that I can relate too.

Tyandra Young, 14, eighth grade

Artist: Pharrel Williams

Pharrel's music (Beautiful) makes me wanta just get up and dance. His lyrics makes me look at life from a defrant point of view.

Codischa Robb, 13, seventh grade

Artist: Tupac Shakur

There are many rappers who inspire me and 2Pac (Shakur) is one. 2Pac inspires by tellin me in his lyrics keep your head up. Belive in your culture and were you came from. He's good by telling me stay out of drugs.

Koran Ray, 11, fifth grade

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