DJ Schools Rockin' in Recession

Jay-Z, Young Jeezy, Lil Wayne among those referencing sour economy

(NEWSER) - The ugly economy is making more than a cameo in today’s hottest rap music, with Young Jeezy taking the cake by naming his latest album The Recession. Rap’s often been a barometer of such huge swings, Sara Libby writes, noting the impact last year of Barack Obama’s rise. Now, Jeezy, Jay-Z and others have their mind on their money, and their money on their mind. More»

Many are first-timers to state program

(NEWSER) - It’s good there is such a thing as a free lunch, since more US students than ever need one. Nearly 20 million kids got a free or reduced-price school lunch in February, overwhelming districts that also face rising food costs. Nationwide enrollment in the government-subsidized program was up 6.3% from last year, USA Today reports. More»

Government gives cash-strapped young bands a helping hand

(NEWSER) - The British are hoping to give the next Beatles a helping hand by offering free rehearsal space, the Guardian reports. A government program spearheaded by former Undertones singer Feargal Sharkey is opening centers around the country to assist cash-strapped young bands who could potentially blossom into big names—and lucrative exports. The first opened yesterday in the Beatles' hometown, Liverpool. More»

LA Times delivers the perfect soundtrack for financial woe

(NEWSER) - No matter how bad the current financial situation gets, popular music offers something to ease your woes. Hope you haven't pawned that iPod just yet: the LA Times brings you the best in recession-tastic classics:

• "Can't Buy Me Love" (Beatles): Single, former Lehman Bros workers will be spinning this one in heavy rotation.
• "Fortunate Son" (Creedence Clearwater Revival): It could be worse—you could be broke and drafted...

Columbus, Indiana, and Casper, Wyoming top employment list

(NEWSER) - Recession—that's a big-city thing, right? Several mid-size cities around the US are making an argument for their economic superiority, boasting job growth higher than the 1.5% national average in 2011. You may not know these cities well, but the Christian Science Monitor recommends them:

1. Columbus, Indiana: No, not Ohio's Columbus: Indiana's version had 10% growth from 2009 to 2010, making it the best economic rebounder during the Great Recession. Jobs are up 6.4%.