Kiara Shanay Lee
“RAGERRRRR”
“Best underrated Youtuber right now”
“Amazing video. Hoping that videos like these begin to shift and change the culture into something more positive”
“Bro I’m loving the music media direction the channel is taking. Keep it up bro. We appreciate ur opinions”
“You can tell this guy puts a lot into his work…let’s protect him”
These are just a handful of the thousands upon thousands of comments among the hundreds of videos on the Rager University Youtube channel by Virginia State University graduate Jordan Knighten.
But the truth of the matter is, Rager University is so much more than a YouTube channel — it’s actually a movement that’s expanding day by day, video by video — and sheer authenticity is driving its growth.
In his faceless videos, Knighten pairs a soothing voice with research, informed critique, hip-hop (and sometimes pop) music & culture and most importantly, a warm sense of community and awareness. In one of my favorite Rager videos called “The Truth About Depression in the Music Industry,” he talks about the effects of depression and other mental illnesses on the hip-hop music industry and the ways particular artists like Eminem, XXXTentacion, Big Sean, JuiceWrld, Billie Eilish and others have dealt with depression through their music and beyond. A clip of late rapper XXXTentacion sums it up nicely for most of the artists featured in this mental health-focused video when he says, “I found a way out through the music.”
When exploring singer Billie Eilish’s experience with depression and anxiety in same video, he says “Billie’s experience shows that no matter how good someone’s life seems to be, mental health factors can still surface. That’s why people with depression and anxiety get frustrated when people say things like ‘What do you have to be sad about?’ or ‘But you’re doing so well in this part of your life —why don’t you just focus on that?’ Those questions aren’t helpful because mental health doesn’t always hinge on career success or an exciting advancement in your personal life.”
I use this particular video in my writing classes every year; as a writer and a professor who teaches writing, it provides a critical way to meet young people where they’re at, normalize mental health awareness and evoke authentic writing from the heart. But I’m not the only one; a Richmond-area therapist also uses this video in her groups with mentally ill and substance-addicted clients. Similar to my experience using the video with my students, she shared that the video has made way for deeper connections with clients, as they feel seen and heard by the stories — and the storytelling — showcased in Rager’s content.
But Rager University far exceeds societal awareness. The critique and research runs deep. With videos analyzing the decline of the traditional album release of years past, exploring why Michael Jackson was such a mega-threat to the music industry, comparing the gendered nuances of male and female rappers and their outcomes, inquiring about the implications of violence and drug addiction in hip-hop culture, exposing the drawbacks of fast fame and so much more, there’s truly something for everyone. I have learned so much through his channel; as a millennial, I have Rager University to thank for my newfound knowledge of Gen-Z artists like Juice WRLD, X and others.
In our interview, he shared that his favorite Rager video “changes all the time,” but his current favorite is “Why The Era Of Rap Superstars is Over.”
“I like this video a lot of because it’s me literally just venting. I didn’t even really write a script for this one.”
Speaking of writing, let’s talk about the clear, concise, yet vivid storytelling that forms the backbone of Rager’s invaluable content. The narration that guides these videos paints a story that you can see and feel. These videos transform and transcend. Sometimes, watching Rager videos is like watching a movie in the theatre that leaves you with food for thought. Other times, you’re in a classroom learning lessons that go far beyond the music and the culture. And other times, you’re in a workshop and your creative juices start flowing like no other. One thing is clear: Rager has the range — and it’s thoroughly appreciated by Rager Nation, Rage Gang and all the other names his followers call themselves.
Knighten, a recent graduate of Virginia State University who majored in history, started with a phone and a dream. “I grew up watching YouTube so I honestly always wanted to do it,” he shared. Juggling college life and Youtube creator life proved to be difficult at times, but he credits his recording schedule for helping him keep some balance between the two. He spoke on numbers and metrics, an often touchy subject for creators. “I mean, I won’t lie and say [follower counts] don’t matter completely but they shouldn’t matter more than the content.” He had some advice for aspiring creatives — “Don’t make content for the numbers. If you do it like that, you’re going to hate it soon. Trust me.”
He clearly loves his craft and so do his followers. Knighten says “I just want [my followers] to have a good time and maybe learn something, but ultimately, have a good time.”
They’re having a great time. And they’re building community. And they’re leaving with something they didn’t have before they watched Rager University. Aspiring artists are leaving with advice and inspiration. “Sad boys” and “sad girls” are leaving feeling seen and more connected with artists who “found a way out through the music,” like XXXTentacion said. Music lovers are enjoying learning more about their favorite artists. Academics like me are leaving with inspiration and a greater appreciation for the unique intersectionality that only hip-hop music and culture can bring. Therapists are leaving with innovative and culturally relevant ways to connect with hard-to-reach populations.
Many of his videos end with the sign off “I appreciate you more than you’ll ever know.” Well, one follower left a comment saying “We appreciate YOU more than you’ll ever know.” The gratitude is palpable throughout Rager Nation. Rager’s community is so engaged and it was all built — homegrown, if you will — in the comments section.
Knighten isn’t the loudest in the room and he doesn’t have to be; his work speaks for itself. And the fruit — the community, the creativity and the meaning-making — speaks even louder. He’s not creating for clout; hell, he isn’t even showing his face on camera. Instead, he is baring his soul.
I hope more creatives do the same. It’s the not-so-secret sauce that makes Rager University all the rage.
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Whether you’re a writer, a painter, an actress, or if you don’t consider any fancy titles for yourself – you are a creative. No matter who you are, to some degree, we all create and we all need space to take care of every part of ourselves. I hope The House of Psalm Magazine inspires you to take good care.
Dr. Kiara Shanay Lee | Editor in Chief, The House of Psalm Magazine
IG: @thehouseofpsalm @kiaraleewrites | kiara@thehouseofpsalm.com
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