Music helps bridge gap between young, old

WATTS, Calif. (KABC) -- Rap is usually linked to young people, but one rapper in Southern California is proving the music can be a hit with senior citizens, too.

They can shake it, and they rhyme with the best of them. They're busting a move and are all over the age of 65.

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Welcome to the Watts Senior Citizens Center's final performance, where seasoned rapper Keith Cross teaches a new way for the young and old to reconnect.

"We invite people who have children, grandchildren, people who are considered senior citizens but are young at heart, and we give them some skills to rock the microphone. We're trying to bridge the gap so they can pass on wisdom to the young people who are in their lives," Cross said.

A chance to start something new at any age is always an unforgettable experience.

"I'm loving it and I want to stick with it," said senior rapper Aoime Murphy.

"It's a lot of fun trying to learn to rap even though I'm a senior," said senior rapper Sarah Sneed.

"It's a beautiful thing, this is the first time I have ever preformed," said senior rapper Charles Herbert.

Rapping has given these seniors more than just a fun memory.

"I hope that they learn enough about hip hop so it is at a level where they can actually pick a positive alternative for their children or grandchildren," Cross said.

"They didn't want to listen to us old people. They listen to rap no matter what kind it is," Murphy said.

Take it from the seniors here: It is never too late to try something new. It may even surprise you what you might gain along the way.

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