The Most Interesting Rappers Out Right Now Pt. 1

Rap/Hip-hop is one of the most versatile and dominant forms of music. Inside the paradigm of rap lies a myriad of subject matter, rhyming techniques and varying terminology. The roots of hip-hop run deep into history, reflecting African storytellers who recited tales to the fluid beat of drums. Many generations have been heavily influenced by the world of hip-hop music, and it is now arguably the most dominate genre of music on the planet.

But, despite its rich heritage, the majority of today's mainstream rap has been castigated for its misogynist lyrics and promotion of irresponsible and illegal behavior. Even former staunch supporters of rap music have declared that "Hip-hop is dead" as the topics have become largely repetitive and the lyricism has been reduced to mindless chants and kindergarten rhymes.

However, I have unshakeable faith in this genre of music. I don't buy into the propaganda that rap music is dying. Like I have said many times on this blog, quality music exists, you just have to be diligent enough to explore the many possibilities! I rarely listen to the radio because I have no interest in hearing the same songs 20 times a day.

My love for rap is thriving primarily to these 5 artists listed below, among others. Right now, they are reigning supreme on my personal playlist and they prove that the masterful lyricism, storytelling, and intelligence in rap music is ALIVE.

Here is the first lineup of The Most Interesting Rappers Out RIGHT NOW (no particular order):

1) Kendrick Lamar


 Kendrick Lamar is a rap genius. This Compton-based lyricist began his rap career as a mixtape artist nearly 10 years ago with his first mixtape in 2003 while he was still a teenager. His album on the independent label Top Dawg Entertainment, Section 80, was critically acclaimed and proved that he would be a formidable force in rap music. Now, with the recent release of his major-label debut album, Good Kid, m.A.A.d city, Kendrick proved he has the ability to attract the mainstream audience without losing his authenticity. GKMC is already being heralded as a classic album and reasons are obvious. This album is the definition of superior storytelling, brilliant lyricism, and unprecedented cohesiveness. No need to skip tracks!

**Must hear songs: "Rigamortis", "Sing About Me, I'm Dying of Thirst", "HiiiPower", and  "The Recipe"

2) J. Cole

Shout out to my home state hero! J. Cole hails from humble beginnings in Fayetteville, NC, where he began rapping in high school. After graduation, he decided to take his rapping AND atheletic talents to the Big Apple, where he attended St. John's University under a full basketball scholarship. After graduating college, he began to hone his lyrical talents full-time, releasing his first mixtape. However, it was his second mixtape in 2009, The Warm Up, that truly caught the attention of rap fans. A year later, he was the first artist signed to Roc Nation and its been ON every since. Cole's next two efforts, the flawless mixtape Friday Night Lights and his debut album Cole World: The Sideline Story, cemented his status as one of the sharpest lyricist in the game right now. J. Cole's music spans a plethora of topics and showcases his superior intelligence and clever wordplay.

**Must hear songs: "Too Deep For the Intro", ALL THREE SIMBA TRACKS, "The Autograph", "Lost Ones"

3) Casey Veggies

Unlike Lamar and Cole, Casey Veggies (born Casey Jones) has not yet had his moment to bask in the mainstream glow, but that doesn't mean he isn't a force to be reckoned with. A former member of Odd Future Gang, Casey has decided to forge his own independent path in the music world. He has released 5 mixtapes and finally signed with Roc Nation earlier this year. Casey Veggies is refreshingly creative, decidedly unique, and talented far beyond his years. He can take a "typical" rap subject and present it in an unorthodox way. He will be around for a LONG time!

**Must hear songs: "Ridin' Roun Town", "DTA", "Swag Worth a Mill", "It's All Good" "Nobody"

4)ScHoolboy Q

There's no suprise that I like ScHoolboy Q. He, along with Kendrick Lamar, are members of the West-Coast super group Black Hippy. After releasing two mixtapes, he dropped his independent label debut, Setbacks, in 2011. The album turned out to be anything but a setback for him, and ScHoolboy Q followed up in 2012 with the highly acclaimed Habits&Contradictions. What makes him interesting? It's all about his unique delivery and eclectic style. Similar to his group mate, he is able to rhyme about an endless list of subjects with an incredible level of thought. Every line, every word is deliberate and meaningful.

**Must hear songs: "Fantasy", "I'm Good", "Blessed", "Nightmare on Figg St."

5) Joey BadA$$

Joey BadA$$ is...well...bad ass. In a great way. Although he is only 17, his style is reminiscent of the "golden age" of rap music. Joey's 1999 mixtape is unlike anything I have ever heard in today's era. It's smart, soulful, and astounding. He is a diamond among much of today's trash. I respect him and support him for remaining true to who he is and achieving success and acclaim on his own terms. Think Nas and Jay-Z at the beginning of their careers - the undeniable hunger and dedication to the poetry of rap music. Yet, he is interesting and captivating enough to be relevant among rap fans. Can't wait for his official debut album!

**Must hear songs: "Survival Tactics", "Waves" (this is my ish), "Catharsis", "Righteous Minds"

This list is just the beginning of my current rap catalogue. Part 2 to come your way soon!

Love Hip-Hop,

T. Amour