Rap Truth, a First Draft

Rap Truth

Music often fills the ears of many people. Just like we all have different styles, we all have a different preference when it comes to music. The question is, do you like the sound of the beat or piano playing? Or do you like the lyrics, the story behind the song?

Rap is often defined is derogative or inappropriate. It surely can be; however, any genre could be.  Maybe this negative outlook is created due to lack of knowledge, or even pure discrimination. In the beginning, rap was most popular among African Americans. Due to racism and societal issues, this genre became frowned upon. Today however, there are rappers of all colors of skin, and high differentiation among culture.

One of the first rappers and DJ’s, DJ Kool Herc, made quite a mark on rap culture. DJ was a Jamaican Immigrant with an obvious talent. It seems that the greatest rappers all had a unique story. Maybe these stories are what helped them create such soulful music. The first rap record was created by Sugarhill Gang. Their hit, Rappers Delight, was the first rap single to become a top 40 hit. Little did these musicians know, they had created a masterpiece. Music would never be the same, and rap would soon touch many people.

In a way people are correct. Rap has truly changed over time. Rappers like Tupac, who once told life stories through their music, are now gone. Sure, there are still rappers who tell stories and help get us through hard times with their music. There are also rappers who buy lyrics from songwriters, have a manager tell them everything to do, and lack real talent. We see that a lot today and we cherish the rappers we still have that are real.

Most popular rappers come from Louisiana, California, New York, Memphis, and some of the greatest are from less popular states. Today, Boosie is still one of the most respected rappers. He is from Louisiana, as well as many other popular rappers. In a few of his songs he pays direct respect to Tupac. Boosie claims Tupac influenced him and he looks up to him.

It almost seems like there are a few different groups of rap inside itself. The tune, flow, and message differ among different artist. J Cole is labeled a rapper, songwriter, singer, and music producer. He is a great artist, but if you compare him to Boosie, the difference is dramatic. Even when these two-artist rap, they still have a different vibe, a different message. They may both have the same message, but one of them may reach a certain group the other didn’t. These two rappers are extremely talented and have always stayed true to themselves. That is what makes them so good at what they do.

Sadly, there are always people who desire to have a talent, they just do not have. Some of those people are known as, Lil Uzi Vert, Nicki Minaj, Lil Pump, 21 savage, Chris Brown, and so many others. These people often try to keep up with an image that is not truly who they are. Their music seems fake and very staged. These artists try to keep their fame by following trends and having nice things. Unfortunately, rap has almost turned into that completely. People tend to care more about how cute the person is or what they have, instead of the depth of their music.

Rap was created to be like poetry. The words should be truthful and flow into the beat/music behind it. When people hear it, not only does it sound good, but they may be able to relate. When you are going through a hard time and turn on some music, it's so nice to hear something factual and relatable.