The rap song  “Pants on the Ground” was written by 62-year-old Vietnam veteran Gen. Larry Platt. The song became an instant hit when Platt sang it on the TV show “American Idol.”  Although the song is fun, it also reflects Platt’s many years as a civil rights activist. In the song, he chastises young men for wearing their pants too long.

Is there a topic that fires you up, one that you could write a rap song about? To get you started, read Platt’s song printed below — and remember to have fun and include rhythm.

Pants on the Ground

  By Gen. Larry Platt

Pants on the ground

Pants on the ground

Lookin’ like a fool with your pants on the ground

With the gold in your mouth

Hat turned sideways

Pants hit the ground

Call yourself a cool cat

Lookin’ like a fool

Walkin’ downtown with your pants on the ground

Hey, get your pants off the ground!