There is something strange going on in mainstream music and change is coming in the most logical way.
Since I can remember, I've loved all kinds of music, but the most listened to has always been hip-hop. I've loved rap since I heard Dj Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince. lol. I'v grown up with hip-hop, it's in my soul. In the past decade or so, I have been very disappointed with mainstream rap. The music that defines the genre.
I mean, Drake is nice, but he brings his phone to the basement...
There are some shining lights like Kendrick, but overall this is what has been hot in the past couple of years...
And of course...
Now don't get me wrong. I picked these two videos because I actually like the songs, but they don't compare to hits from OutKast, Jay-Z or even a Lil Wayne hit. They just don't measure up on any lyrical level. Not even close.
But right now, something strange is happening in hip-hop and there is a new focus and yearning for skill and positivity. Rap doesn't have to be all about money, sex and violence. It can have more meaning.
When it comes to skills, you know the music loving world is missing lyrical talent when this amazing freestyle went viral by Black Thought.
But it isn't just old cats, showing off... there is some real young talent in hip-hop that really gives me hope.
One of those rappers is a man named Logic. I have to be honest, I've never really been a huge fan of his music, but I'm a huge fan of what he represents. I've known of him for a while, but what really got me hooked was a video where he sat down with my virtual mentor, Gary Vaynerchuck.
After that interview, I went and listened to everything Logic, started following on social media. I got hooked, the guy is a good guy and exactly the kind of talent that hip-hop needs.
This past year he has seen some amazing success due to his latest album, Everybody. I bought the album in pre-order and got an autographed poster for free, which was pretty cool. I now have it up in my office.
You may have heard his huge song, 1-800-273-8255. Which is the suicide prevention hotline number. Like I said... he's the kind of artist we need in hip-hop right now.
For me, I'll always be in love with hip-hop, but sometimes I am really proud of the positive impact music can have. That's why I'm a fan of Logic and happy to see his success in 2017. Hopefully more positive role model rappers will make it to mainstream this year.
What are your thoughts on the state of mainstream hip-hop right now? Do you even listen? If not, what do you listen to? I bet I listen as well. I love music.
Thanks for reading and let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
