Throughout the last two decades, the hip-hop and rap genres have morphed and adapted in many ways. One major change in rap culture has been the transformation of the M.C. performer and songwriter, to the musically-talented gangster. This shift from subtle, behind-the-booth performers, to in your face Goliaths, has changed how we view the lives and attitudes of the rap subculture. A more friendly and funky 80's rap has been replaced by a raw and taunting attack on the listener and his/her ears. The picture above truly says it all; we are at a point in society where rappers do not earn their respect through undoubted skill and timing, but rather demand it. Current day album covers scream, "You will respect what lies behind this plastic case, or i'll punchisize your face, go ahead...try me..."
So we must take a step back and examine, has the skill of these performers increased with their bicep measurements and gun sizes, or has music morphed into a sort of acting role, half fact and half fiction.
Ask yourself why you respect these musicians.
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