That's a 'rap' - student chases hip-hop dream in US

Keegan Houston, a passionate hip-hop artist from Strabane in County Tyrone, is thrilled to announce that he will be heading to the United States for a year to pursue his musical dreams. This exciting opportunity comes through the Study USA scholarship program, which allows students from Northern Ireland to study in the US. Keegan is particularly eager to arrive in Louisville, Kentucky, the city that is home to one of his favorite rap artists, Jack Harlow. At just 20 years old, Keegan has recently completed a higher national certificate in music at the North West Regional College in Londonderry, and now he is ready to embark on this new chapter of his life at Bellarmine University. As one of only 52 students from Northern Ireland selected for this program, Keegan admits that the thought of traveling to the USA alone for a year is a bit intimidating. He has never traveled outside of Europe before, but he is excited about the incredible opportunities that await him. Keegan has been making music since he was around 13 years old, and he currently performs as a solo artist as well as part of a duo called Anarchy, alongside his friend Ciaran McLaughlin. His music has gained recognition, having been featured on BBC Radio One and as part of the BBC Introducing program. In addition to his musical talents, Keegan has a background in break-dancing, but he eventually decided to focus on writing his own songs, creating beats, and performing his music. He shared, 'Once I finished fifth year in Holy Cross College, I didn't know exactly what I wanted to do, but I knew I wanted to follow music. ' His time at the regional college was transformative, as he met many friends, had supportive teachers, and discovered more about himself. Keegan credits his music lecturer, Tony Talbot, for helping him and Ciaran get their music on the BBC and develop their unique sound. Now, as he prepares to move to Louisville, Keegan is determined to follow in the footsteps of Jack Harlow and hopes to make a name for himself in the hip-hop scene. The Study USA program, which began in 1994, is managed by the British Council, an organization that promotes educational opportunities and cultural relations. Keegan is inspired by various US rappers and dreams of becoming a successful recording artist, all while putting Strabane on the hip-hop map.