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February 10th, 2010
07:46 PM ET
Ludacris helps students get a 'Step' ahead testing captions $1.5 million in scholarships is at stake, and some college students seeking a share are just steps away – literally. Fraternities and sororities from around the U.S. have been taking part in the Sprite Step Off, a national step competition hosted by rapper/actor Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, who's also a producer behind the contest and the resulting MTV2 documentary series. It's the biggest step competition in history, and the finalists will square off in Atlanta for a shot at the top prize: $100,000 in college scholarships. "I wanted to show people that there's much more to these individuals than just stepping," he told me in a brief interview. His pride in the students was apparent, as he repeatedly praised them for their service, their dedication, and their talent. "The energy I've picked up along the way has been good for me, because I've been motivated, just seeing what has gone on with these fraternities and sororities." To make the competition, teams had to compete in qualifying events, followed by regional semi-finals and finals, which determine the 12 sororities and fraternities that will meet this month in the national finals. And while Ludacris wouldn't confirm rumors of a follow-up tournament, he certainly didn't seem ready to let it end, and teased "I think this whole thing is just beginning."
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I have always thought you was a step ahead of the pack.
Keep up the hard work !!!!!!!!!!!!
He should sponsor a spelling bee.
@ James
Excuse me how does a CLUB song set women back. Stop focusing on negatives.
Thank god for Oprah!!! She put him on the spot a couple of years ago on the Opah show about his music and negative images of women and violence. Look at him now!!! He's a role model for young people and he's giving back.
This is why he has always been one of my favorite rappers
To the person that commented on the kind of music that he makes – there is a label on the CD prior to purchase that states "explicit lyrics". It's your job as a parent to not allow your children to listen to it. I'm sure the company that makes pork rinds doesn't state on the bag that eating their product may lead to heart attacks. With that being said, he's doing a good thing by helping those that can't afford to pay for college, no matter where they are from or what they are into.
Matt Harrison: Why do IG-NO-RANT individuals always have to turn everything into a race thang. Some people get on my nerves sooooo baaaddd!!!! White people can learn if they have the desire to step/break dance/bop if they want to just like black have learned/desired to play hockey/soccer or anything else if they want to.
Thank you for 'giving back' to our youth! Way to lead by example! As a professional fund raiser, I am always happy to see when high profile individuals emerge as philanthropists! Just remember, that we can all find a cause to donate to at the level that we can afford within our budgets.
great job!!! Nice to see celebs doing something good for our youth right here in the USA!!! and to someone who said step dancing or strolls are only for AA's, not true at all. Sure they are more highly represented but there are def. non blacks who step (or join AA greek orgs). Keep up the great work!
@ Matt Harrison, check your facts. Stepping is historically performed by African-American organizations, but now white organizations are participating too. Zeta Tau Alpha, a white sorority is stepping!!!
he has made mistakes but he learnin
@Matt Harrison,
How could you be so silly. There ARE white kids that step, just like there are black ballerinas. The competition is open to everyone. Why don't you go ahead and join in and show 'em that white people can step too! Don't feel so threatened.
He does great work at times, and then sets women back 50 years with songs like "How Low Can You Go?" As a single father of a young daughter, I expect more from him. Music leaves a lasting impression in the minds of our youth.
Ummm...White people are more then capable of stepping. It they want to join in the competition..Nothing is stopping them from doing so. Mr. Bridges is simply trying to give back to HIS community. And in doing that, he is being both pro-black and pro-humanity. Way to go Luda!
good thing
I think this is so awesome! Hes the best! Good going thinking about the youth they all need it these days to much peer pressure out there. Also if he wants to be pro-black so be it thats his choice.
@ Matt Harrison......So what if he is pro-black. Someone needs to be.
Keep it up Cris, you are a multitalented and compassionate person.
He's a good role model for youth of today,they can learn alot about leadership and humility.Education is the key to success,keep it coming Luda.
This is targeted just for african-americans. White people do not "step" dance. I like Luda, but com'n quit being so pro-black and more pro-humanity.
Carol What makes you the authority on a "talented rapper". Runaway Love was great and so was Southern Hospitality. Back to what matters Luda is a multifacted artist that walks the walk.
God bless you and your family bro!
It takes a BOY to brag about what he GETS but it takes a MAN to show you what he GIVES. Well job in distinguishing yourself Mr. Bridges.
Its good to see him give back. He is showing his appreciation for the support his fans have given him. Keep up your good efforts!!! You are doing so much to influence our youth in a good way!!!
Not only is he a talanted rapper, but he is alos a talanted actor. Good job Luda. There are so many out there who are just for themselves. I salute you to a job well done
AWESOME JOB!!!! KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU FOR ALL OF YOUR EFFORTS.
go luda i do like that heart
When is the competition and will it be televised?
You rarely see rappers take pride in education so I salute him for what he's doing has done and going to do!!!!!!
Luda is the Dude-uh
yeah its good that he's doing something good with his life he has come a long way and has suceeded in so many ways!!!!!!
Always a pioneer on the homefront for our youth. Gotta love him!
This man leads by example. Good job indeed!
What a fantastic idea. Good publicity for a great cause.
He is always doing things for the youth.Good job.
he is the mann