So, if you were to listen to the radio, you'd probably here the following artists: Gucci Mane, Waka Flocka, Soulja Boi, 50 Cent, and a plethora of others that people blame for the downfall of hip-hop. While they aren't my favorite artists in the world, they have just as much a place in hip-hop as others like Talib Kweli, Common, Black Thought, Jay-Z, and other MCs that earned their stripes.
Why do I say that? Well, hip-hop is just as much about social commentary and introspection as it is about partying and having a good time. If you're a hip-hop head or have taken an Af-Am Studies course at some point in your life, let me ask you a question...
What did the Black Panthers, Black Liberation Army, and other revolutionaries of their time do when they wanted to unwind? They partied...they danced...they smiled...
Granted, their music typically had some sort of social meaning or message to them. However, these same revolutionaries worked hand-in-hand with the pushers. The deplored their actions and attempted to get them to educate themselves and aid in the struggle.
Out of these conditions (amongst others...) hip hop was born.
Fast Forward to 2010-2011...Hip-Hop is filled with tracks like "Toot It & Boot It" and any song with the word "swag" in the title...if you were to take that and look solely at that, you'd think hip-hop was on life support. Here's proof that Hip-Hop is still alive and kicking...more after the break.
Small examples there folks...serious business...if you want to find hip-hop, you will. If you want to sit on your ass and complain about the lack of good hip-hop, you'll do that too.
I suggest you follow Dead Prez's advice and Turn Off The Radio
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