Wordologist

Definite early emcees would be Tupac, and Biggie. They spoke of political corruption as well as social activism. Most emcees before them used “fluff” lyrics. A fluff lyric is defined as music that really just makes you feel good, or music that is not lyrically complex. Tupas and Biggie used metaphors that sometimes you’d have to rewind the song just to understand exactly what they meant. Both, had the street menatilty that was popular at the time, but they aren’t put in the gangster rap category, because of their intelligent use of words.

In today’s time one of the most notable lyrical geniuses is Kanye West.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1GtBpIORJY

His word usage is foreign to “a straight A” English major. He discusses things that mainstream artist are scared to talk about. He also goes against the norm in his style. He’s not a thug, and he admits to shopping. He even wears “man bags”. He goes against the masculine image that most rappers produce.


Another rapper that sets their own path is Nas. He is the most political rapper known. He tackles subjects that journalists in America won’t discuss. He discusses things like African genocide, poverty in America, and the corruption in the penal system.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JCOURZ-yx4E