A Misrepresentation

The topic of Rap is a tattered and torn one for me. When you think of rap, what comes to mind? Do you think of peace prosperity, love and kindness — perhaps sex, violence, guns, drugs and other unmentionable vices? The latter would most likely come to mind if you were to think in modern terms. The media is littered with the images of bling, women and violence when it comes to rap. The author of the article “The Misrepresentation of Rap” Joy Bewaji reminisces about what Rap has turned into, how it influences the youth, and what is left over when it is all said and done.

The subjects of violence and vulgar lyrics can be – and almost always are – prominently on display in the Rap scene. Rap and modern hip-hop was born in the ghettos of America. It draws in the youth with images of wealth, jewelry, a sense of rebellion against society and of course, women. Bewaji believes that Rap has evolved into a sense of negativity, and people begin to believe what they see and hear, thus Rap has grown up “quite like a healthy baby, into a grown man that can accommodate people’s idiosyncrasies.” (Bewaji) In layman’s terms, it is influenced by the group who produced it and can be interpreted differently by any individual to a negative or positive effect. If you are like me, and do not come from the streets, the interpretation is that of a negative effect. Like Bewaji, I am in agreement as I clearly demonstrated. To that effect, I would like to point out that not all Rap is negative (some lyrics can be quite enjoyable and pleasant.) Rap has a vibe to it that you cannot seem to escape. Even if you do not agree with the lyrics or imagery one cannot help but for a moment to see the particular point of view that is being displayed – but then you are snapped back to reality.

The “naive youth” on the other hand, may not be so lucky. When you “live-off-the-streets” you feel the music, believe its words — that may be your life style.

“So when 50 cent says, “get rich or die trying”, the ignorant youth picks up a pistol (just like it is done in many rap videos) and heads for the nearest shop he can pull a fast hit on. While the rap act in the video may survive the heist or is given a VIP treatment to prison, you, on the other hand, may begin to wonder where you went wrong and why a mob is chanting war songs and preparing to set you ablaze.” (Bewaji)

As the above quote explains… perhaps it is all what just works in show-business, but the youth may not be able to tell the difference. So does Rap poison our minds with evils, and corrupt out youth? Has Rap evolved for better or for worse?

I must agree that with all of the vices Rap has to offer, negative effects are bound to spread. With the popularity of Rap, it seems to make sense that violence and negative behaviour would increase. Just as Bewaji’s mindset shows itself – the evolution has been had a negative appeal and we wish that old values will once again emerge to give hope and faith, rather than destruction and greed. I wish, just as Bewaji, that when the music stops and the impression is left, that it is an impression of good spirit, rather than that of a corrupt one.