Many hip hop fans who are “in the know” claim that there aren’t any good rappers in the mainstream, but is this really true? Aren’t some of the greats- names like
Method Man, Rakim, Eminem and Melle Mel- respected both in the underground and the mainstream?
In my opinion, popularity has nothing to do with quality. Your album can go platinum, but if it’s produced by Dr. Dre or the Nepunes, there may be another reason
than your incredible rap skills. Likewise, rappers with incredible talent may never hit the mainstream for a variety of reasons- they lack sex appeal, don’t “look” the part, obscure song topics, beats that aren’t catchy, etc.- none of which can the MC be considered at fault. Artists such as Brother Ali, Aesop Rock, Talib Kweli and Ras Kass immediately come to mind as rappers who could have (even should have) been more popular but never were.
In order to remain in the underground, a rapper must remain true to themselves. However, if they stick to what they’re good at, shouldn’t this -at least in a perfect world- help them achieve levels of success enjoyed by more commercial acts? Frankly, I have no problem watching artists like Outkast, Method Man or Eminem top the charts… hopefully it will keep them in the booth doing what they do best.
In conclusion, a dope rapper is a dope rapper. Whether they are number one on the charts are have never been signed, talent as an MC is a great thing, regardless of the number of fans.
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Back with more news for you today. It’s amazing how much good information there is on this stuff out there if you know where to look. Three in particular that I found really valuable were…
Underground Hip-Hop is Dead | Benz and a Backpack
How the internet is either killing or maintaining the underground hip-hop movement.
Original Underground Hip Hop: DJ Bazooka Joe
DJ BAZOOKA JOE – BOOMBOX DIARIES VOLUME 1. Disc 1: 01. Spoonie G – Spoonie’s Rap 02. Cold Crush Brothers 03. Busy Bee – Wild Style Rap 04. Kurtis Blow – Only The Strong Survive 05. Whodini – Fugitive 06. 1241 feat. …
XXLmag.com – » XXL’s Official 100 Best Hip-Hop Web Sites, Pt. 1 (#-K)
News and exclusives from a New York industry insider formerly affiliated with Dipset. kevinnottingham.com. Underground rap shit. Log on tomorrow CLICK HERE for Pt. 2 (L-Z). XXL’s Dec/Jan double issue hits stands December 1!!!!!! Share: …
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Have a great day!
