Modern rap music frequently faces an oversimplified perception, reducing this nuanced art form to mere bass-heavy beats and predictable themes. Critics often approach it with the same anxiety as the former Parents Music Resource Center, falsely equating the genre with rebellion and discomfort for parents. Instead, we should appreciate contemporary rap for its rich lyrical content and insightful social commentary, akin to the respect once afforded to folk music during its thrilling era in the 1960s.
At first glance, rap and folk may seem worlds apart, yet both share a commitment to lyrical craftsmanship and deep emotional expression. In today’s rapidly changing cultural landscape, rap has emerged as a genre that captures the essence of modern society, bravely addressing issues of vulnerability and authenticity without losing its edge.
1
Vince Staples, Ramona Park Broke My Heart (2022)
Reflecting on Hometown Experience
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Un0nhTbzMk
In 2022, Vince Staples from Long Beach, California, made a notable impact with his fifth studio album, Ramona Park Broke My Heart. This title refers to Staples’ home neighborhood and encapsulates a raw portrayal of the highs and lows that come with one’s roots. The album dives into themes of love, loss, and the lasting scars of institutional violence, examining the struggles that linger even after achieving success.
As a prolific storyteller, Staples demonstrates an evolution in his writing with this album, showcasing greater depth than ever before. The track “When Sparks Fly”stands out as a prime example, cleverly weaving a double meaning that superficially appears to discuss romantic chaos while reflecting on his relationship with firearms.
She said, “Baby, keep me closely, love it when you hold me
Know that I’m a real one, I don’t do no ghostin’
I know that you love me, you don’t gotta show me
Off to the world, please, hide me from the police
Everywhere you go, we together, inseparable
You know I’m down for whatever, protective of you
I don’t wanna use protection with you
But the glove’ll keep you safe if you ever get loose
Never put you in a jam, hold whatever for you
When you first shot your shot, I knew you would the one to hit the spot
2
Tyler, The Creator, Chromakopia (2024)
Exploring Maturity and Celebrity
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dFnOHJrNFOk
The evolution of Tyler, The Creator as an artist has been a fascinating journey. Initially, his edgy approach created a divide among listeners, but following the release of 2017’s Flower Boy, he began to reveal a sensitive, poetic side that humanizes his persona. His latest album, Chromakopia, released in 2024, illustrates this transformation further, employing imagery of masks to represent his desire to evade the incessant scrutiny of fame.
In tracks like “Noid,”Tyler expresses the palpable stress that comes with celebrity culture, shedding light on issues like invasions of privacy and paranoia.
I can’t even buy a home in private
Home invasions got my brothers dyin’
Notice every car that’s drivin’ by
I think my neighbors want me dead
I got a cannon underneath the bed
Triple checkin’ if I locked the door
I know every creak that’s in the floor
M*therf*cker, I am paranoid, I (Such a—)
Loop around the block, eyes glued to the rearview
Rather double back than regret hearin’, “Pew, pew”
In addition to fear, Tyler addresses personal topics such as unwanted pregnancies (“Hey Jane”) and the complexity of self-identity in “Like Him,”adding layers to what is undoubtedly a significant entry in contemporary rap.
3
Ab-Soul, Herbert
A Straightforward Perspective
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=db-HbSO8EL4
After a six-year hiatus, Ab-Soul made his anticipated return in 2022 with Herbert, aligning closely with his signature style and thought-provoking approach to hip-hop. The album is infused with personal reflections and introspective themes, showcasing a more direct lyrical approach.
A standout track, “Do Better,”encapsulates his desire to grow and confront his mental health challenges head-on, marking a significant moment in his artistry.
Shades stuck to my face, hoodie glued to my head (They will always haunt my dreams)
Hidin’ from the same world that made me who I am (The green twins with your eyes)
Depressed, can’t even get out of bed
Too blessed to be so stressed (They will always haunt my dreams)
I do all this shit, just to say, “Get off my d*ck”
Mixed emotions prohibit my focus (The green twins with your eyes)
This what you wanted, what’s wrong with you? You don’t make sense
Feel like I can flip at any moment (They will always haunt my dreams)
Faces playin’ and it’s f*ckin’ with me
“Doin’ drugs was just a war with boredom, but it’s sure to get me.”Lord, forgive me
4
Freddie Gibbs & The Alchemist, Alfredo (2020)
Collaboration Excellence
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sU3OvG8FZAs
The collaboration between Freddie Gibbs and esteemed producer The Alchemist resulted in the 2020 album, Alfredo, which was welcomed like a classic pairing of cake and ice cream. The album artfully blends Gibbs’ hard-hitting narratives of struggle with The Alchemist’s polished production.
Tracks like “Babies & Fools”offer both depth and raw emotion, showcasing Gibbs’ ability to narrate his story while complemented by the sophisticated backdrop laid down by The Alchemist.
My first love was football from playin’ that Madden sh*t
My second love was hard drugs, weed and this rappin’ sh*t
Heard Allah on the nights that I wasn’t havin’ sh*t
I say my prayers but I’m rusty as f*ck with Arabic
Lord, take me as I am ’cause I’m gon’ come as I’m is
I might die twice if I look down and see my mama in tears
I gave her (All of me), uh
But I ain’t gon’ never die (All of me), uh
5
Rapsody, Please Don’t Cry (2024)
A Personal Journey
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dPjbhoYuMBs
In 2024, Rapsody released Please Don’t Cry, a remarkable 22-track album featuring notable collaborations with artists like Erykah Badu and Lil Wayne. This project is a deeply personal exploration that reveals the artist’s life beyond her musical persona, addressing tough subjects with honesty and grace.
A striking track, “Loose Rocks,”presents a heart-wrenching look at her relative’s struggle with dementia, culminating in an emotionally charged phone call that resonates powerfully.
Things we go through change us
The new and old me, they feel like strangers
The reality, one day to you I’ll be a stranger
Life ain’t easy wit’ these changes
Mentally, I’m barely hanging, but get up again (I get up)
It’s crazy what a hug will do for you and them
Things I said I’d never do, I did over again (I did)
My reality is that I dread the day I walk into the house
And you ask someone who I am
6
Earl Sweatshirt, I Don’t Like Sh*t, I Don’t Go Outside (2015)
An Introspective Reflection
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S1kezgf_fIs
This year marks the 10th anniversary of Earl Sweatshirt’s second studio album, I Don’t Like Sh*t, I Don’t Go Outside. The record encapsulates his unique perspective on life, showcasing his laid-back demeanor alongside profound explorations of mental health and emotional struggles.
The track “Mantra”serves as a compelling declaration, inviting listeners to engage with the depth of Sweatshirt’s introspection while maintaining his distinctive calm.
You used to say you like violins
And your lifestyle depend on me
And I know it’s nighttime when you get lonely
And tell all your little friends how that b*tch stole me
And despite all the facts that you got phony
You gonna tell them bout the night that you exposed me
For the b*stard I was
And how I probably smashed every b*tch that I passed in the club
And the last couple months was the worst
Cause I smashed all the trust
That I earned in the past couple months
That we had as a couple
My absence, a fuss
Was a problem that we ain’t ever really get to solve
7
Doechii, Alligator Bites Never Heal (2024)
Empowerment in Adversity
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JSewCqAK7p4
Emerging talent Doechii continues to impress with her latest mixtape, Alligator Bites Never Heal, combining infectious beats with motivational themes amidst personal struggles. This release has found its way onto my favorite playlists, showcasing her versatility and empowerment.
Standout tracks like “Denial Is a River”exemplify her skillful blend of self-referential humor and a flow that merges classic and contemporary styles, making her an influential figure for female rappers.
“Platinum”record this, viral record that
I’m makin’ so much money, I’m all over the net
I’m movin’ so fast, no time to process
And no, I’m not in a gang but I’m always on set
Wrist watch, drip drop, labels want the TikToks, now I’m makin’ TikTok music, what the f*ck?
I need cleanse, need a detox, but we ain’t got time to stop, the charts need us
(And they do)
Fast forward, me 2023
I’m stackin’ lots of cheese and makin’ money
My grass is really green, and honestly
I can’t even f*ckin’ cap no more, this is a really dark time for me
I’m going through a lot
8
D2x, The Hunger Era (2024)
Indie Rap’s Tenacity
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8HA0P1P0MWM
Chicago-based rapper D2x has made a significant statement with his album The Hunger Era, embodying the spirit of an underdog determined to rise. Infused with comic-book-style flair and a compelling flow reminiscent of legendary artist MF DOOM, this project showcases D2x’s ambition and transparency.
Each lyric, particularly in tracks like “FIRE,”resonates with a fierce intensity, sparking enthusiasm and support for his journey towards success.
I’m on fire
I got a motor for desire
A burning passion to succeed this madness and I’m tired
I’m tired of being tried
Man I’m the full package
What these rappers underline, take a look into my mind
The come-up, I’m one of one, flowing from a loaded gun
I’m about to blow up, I’m going on a cold run
9
NxWorries, Yes Lawd! (2016)
A Flawless Collaboration
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WGIWLiO5058
NxWorries, the dynamic duo of Anderson. Paak and Knxwledge, delighted listeners with their highly anticipated 2016 album, Yes Lawd!. This collaboration combines impeccable musical talent with a versatile mix of genres including soul, R&B, and funk.
The collection exudes charisma and energy, particularly on tracks like “Suede,”inviting listeners to embrace the feel-good vibes and connect with the infectious rhythm.
Smoother than a m*therf*cker
Suede on the inside
Candy paint, candy paint
I ain’t gotta tell you what the rims look like
Look, I’m gripping wood like a m*therf*cker
She ask me, can her friend ride?
Kelly wanna have a drink
And shorty wanna pop pills all night
Look, don’t be f*cking with my tape deck
You gon’ listen to this Marvin
You gon’ listen to this Bloodstone
Oh, y’all n*ggas want that Barry White?
Well, I don’t really f*ck with that right there
That could make a n*gga act up right there
Well, go and get your rocks off, boo
Nah, nah, nah
(I don’t really do all that, but it’s more for you)
I’m far from a p*mp, but I’m close to you
You f*cking with an old soul, twice removed
10
Schoolboy Q, Blue Lips (2024)
Continuous Growth in Hip-Hop
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0FiXNAkUBhs
With the release of his sixth studio album, Blue Lips, in 2024, Schoolboy Q reveals that he is still evolving and honing his craft. Known for energetic tracks like “Pop”and “Thank God 4 Me,”the album also showcases a more vulnerable side.
Songs such as “Blueslides”and “Germany ’86″allow Q to not only showcase his dynamic rap skills but also to reflect on poignant moments from his past, including memories of his childhood and his mother’s service in the military.
I feel leveled, I’m good
My head better, I’m straight
My mom stayed workin’ late
She taught me how to be great
My superhero’s a woman
You know she served for this country
Sent her back to the hoovers
Left her son for the shooters
We in the streets playin’ catch
I guess we comin’ up next, uh
I guess we growin’ up stressed
By ten years we was thirty
Watchin’ your homie get stretched
Watchin’ your homie get x’ed out
And bleed through his flesh
I feel leveled, I’m straight
My head better, I’m good
My babysitter knew I had the strap on contact
My dog beat life, didn’t snitch and I’m proud of that
He finally came home, gon’ ball again, all of that
On God