The Real Thoughts on Rap
Odd Future, Lil Wayne, Wiz Khalifa, Eminem, Left Eye, and Kendrick Lamar; the list is never ending. What do you notice about these musicians? They’re all fairly popular rappers. What else do you notice? They’re all so different. In this one music genre, rap, there are so many different emotions to their lyrics and even to their beats. People like the music they like for different reasons. Music affects us more than you think. Further on in this article you will see reasons on how rap affects society.
Many people choose their music based off of its popularity, what’s “cool” or “dope” or what’s the #1 single on the radio, but what is it that makes these tracks #1? If you pay attention to the lyrics of artist such as Lil Wayne, 2 Chainz, & other rappers alike what do you notice? “Blah blah blah, get money, commit crimes”. Derogatory terms, profanity, drugs, sex, and alcohol. This is what we call "cool" this is what many people blast on their radios. These are people that adolescents are looking up to. I can't say much though because I tend to sing along and learn the lyrics to those songs myself.
Although, those negative rap songs aren't the only kinds of songs that catch people’s attention. They’re also very positive rappers out there and on the top of the charts. Artist such as Kendrick Lamar, Eminem, J. Cole, Phora, and more. Even old rappers such as Tupac are extremely popular; many recognize him as a legend. "What makes these rappers stand out from the others?" you may ask. Intelligence. Meaning. Inspiration. Their songs catch people’s attention because they really speak to society. They don't talk about how they're balling; they talk about the struggle, real life problems, and even motivation. They tell their stories, which are realistic and even often help others get through their problems.
As you can see, sure it’s just one genre but there is much variety within it. Many people base their opinions off of the beat, the message, or even simply it’s popularity. People choose the music they like but it doesn’t necessarily reflect on you as a person. Although, it is a ripple effect, it affects society as a whole.
Written By: Destinee M.
Odd Future, Lil Wayne, Wiz Khalifa, Eminem, Left Eye, and Kendrick Lamar; the list is never ending. What do you notice about these musicians? They’re all fairly popular rappers. What else do you notice? They’re all so different. In this one music genre, rap, there are so many different emotions to their lyrics and even to their beats. People like the music they like for different reasons. Music affects us more than you think. Further on in this article you will see reasons on how rap affects society.
Many people choose their music based off of its popularity, what’s “cool” or “dope” or what’s the #1 single on the radio, but what is it that makes these tracks #1? If you pay attention to the lyrics of artist such as Lil Wayne, 2 Chainz, & other rappers alike what do you notice? “Blah blah blah, get money, commit crimes”. Derogatory terms, profanity, drugs, sex, and alcohol. This is what we call "cool" this is what many people blast on their radios. These are people that adolescents are looking up to. I can't say much though because I tend to sing along and learn the lyrics to those songs myself.
Although, those negative rap songs aren't the only kinds of songs that catch people’s attention. They’re also very positive rappers out there and on the top of the charts. Artist such as Kendrick Lamar, Eminem, J. Cole, Phora, and more. Even old rappers such as Tupac are extremely popular; many recognize him as a legend. "What makes these rappers stand out from the others?" you may ask. Intelligence. Meaning. Inspiration. Their songs catch people’s attention because they really speak to society. They don't talk about how they're balling; they talk about the struggle, real life problems, and even motivation. They tell their stories, which are realistic and even often help others get through their problems.
As you can see, sure it’s just one genre but there is much variety within it. Many people base their opinions off of the beat, the message, or even simply it’s popularity. People choose the music they like but it doesn’t necessarily reflect on you as a person. Although, it is a ripple effect, it affects society as a whole.
Written By: Destinee M.