Chicago Tribune

Seniors challenge traditional retirement, in the recording studio and beyond

CHICAGO - Walking into Haven Studios, a music mentoring program on the South Side, Arthur DuBois was told by founder Andre "Add-2" Daniels that the space was for young folks.

DuBois retort: "I'm young at heart."

The Bronzeville resident has rehearsed and recorded more than two dozen trap music beats, a sub-genre of hip-hop that went mainstream in the late '90s, simply for fun. A YouTube video of his beat-making skills went viral in March and now boasts nearly 173,000 views. The newfound fame landed him coverage on "Windy City Live," Rollingstone.com, CBSNews.com, NPR.com and Buzzfeed. DuBois is working with Haven and Add-2 is serving as his mentor and adviser.

"At 72, I don't consider myself old," DuBois said. "I'm still alive. As long as you're still alive, age doesn't mean nothing. If you still want to do something at your age, do it."

He's not alone in that mindset. Social Security kicks in

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