No I dont sell crack or carry guns!
Hip Hop music has always been under scrutiny for its use of explicit lyrcism which is brought to realilty even more with its explicit videos.
Many people begin to question the infuluence of such music on teengers perhaps. Or many ignore the unavoidable parentel advisory logo on most hip hop albums which warns of explicit lyrics.
Lyrics that revolve around selling drugs, violence and living harsh lifestyles are common within hip hop music, and if those lyrics are taken away, then the artists image would be taken away as well making him/her fraudulent.
Being a fan of this genre, I can certainly highlight the positives that hip hop music brings, focusing on critically acclaimed rapper Nas' song and video I Can, the second single from his 2002 album God's Son.
The song starts with a drum pattern mixed with Beethoven's classic Fur Elise medoly, which represents class and sophistication, as Nas decides to take a different route in terms of style.
The video portarys a young girl on a piano playing this melody surrounded by flats in a deprived area which shows that talent is hidden and not always on the forefront.
The chorus of the song is what turned it into an inspirational anthem for young children who are not fed with silver spoons, which is sung by children who tell each other that after hardship, sucess will follow.
"I know I can, be what I wanna be".....if I work hard at it, I'll be where i wanna be".
As a rapper, Nas proved to be a clear role model for African American youth who dont always grow up with luxuries, and a smooth childhood.
If only more songs like this were produced, then hip hop music would not be getting ignorant remarks from critics.
For instance an unsatisfied David Cameron who states: "Do you realise that some of the stuff you play on Saturday nights encourages people to carry guns and knives?" He should have mentioned heavy metal music as well with lyrics of a sadistic and sexual nature.
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment