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All apologies: OutKast reaches out to unwed dads

(CNN) -- It's a lyrical lesson rapped as an apology. And OutKast, a Grammy-nominated duo, keeps it simple: I'm sorry I got your daughter pregnant, they tell the girl's mother, but I promise to take care of the baby.

The popular song, "Ms. Jackson," resonates with what sociologists say is a growing number of men who are unwed fathers. Both members of OutKast, the Atlanta, Georgia, rap duo, grew up without a father in the home and are unwed fathers.

VIDEO OutKast, a Grammy-nominated rap duo, encourages young, unwed fathers to be a part of their children's lives. CNN's Beth Nissen reports (February 27) Play video (QuickTime, Real or Windows Media)

Bill Stephney of the National Fatherhood Initiative said the song will be particularly meaningful with young African-American males.

"In 1960, about 80 percent of African-American children were born to two married parents," Stephney said. "By 1995, nearly 80 percent were not born to two married parents."

"Ms. Jackson" may reach those in need of hearing a message about responsible parenting.

"The great thing about rap music is that it's the music of its generation," Stephney said. "It's information music at the same time that you're getting melody and a lot of rhythm. You're also getting information that you get to process and digest, along with all the cable stations and magazines that are thrown at you."