Rap's History Is About Keepin It Real Essay

Harrison Wilmot

APUSH (H period)

Mr. Hinckley

13 May 2023

Rap’s History is about “keepin’ it real”

Research Question: Explore the truth of modern rap’s origins; how do you chronologize its past and present?

Rap, also known as hip hop music, is a cultural expression that emerged in the African American and Latinx communities of the Bronx in New York City in the 1970s. While its origins can be traced back to African oral traditions, jazz, blues, gospel, and other musical forms, its “real” development can be distinguished into three categories: its inspiration from African griots, the evolution of African symbolism in rap lyrics, and the lasting impact of the pivotal US rap song, “Rapper’s Delight” by The SugarHill Gang.

“The roots

Similarly, rap relies heavily on rhythmic patterns, with MCs delivering their lyrics in sync with the underlying beat. The rhythmic patterns in rap help drive the energy and flow of the music, mirroring the rhythmic traditions found in African poetry and music.

Call and Response: African oral traditions frequently employ call and response structures, where a leader or group delivers a line or phrase, and the audience responds. This interaction creates an engaging and participatory experience. In rap, artists often incorporate call and response techniques, where they deliver a line or phrase, and the audience or other MCs respond, generating a dynamic and interactive flow.

Wordplay and Puns: African poetry traditions often utilize wordplay, clever metaphors, and puns to enhance the lyrical impact. Rap artists also employ these techniques to create memorable lines and add depth to their lyrics. One way in which MCs do this is through the “double entendre” wordplay; rappers can create a line that has both a literal interpretation, and a (secret) humorous

The rhythmic pattern created by the drums adds intensity and drive to the song.

"Yeah!" by Usher ft. Lil Jon and Ludacris: This 2004 hit combines R&B and rap elements. The repeated lines "Yeah!" and "Okay!" invite listeners to join in and add to the song's infectious energy.

"6 Foot 7 Foot" by Lil Wayne ft. Cory Gunz: This 2010 hit is packed with witty wordplay and double entendres. Lil Wayne seamlessly blends humorous punchlines and clever wordplay throughout this track such as the line, "Real G's move in silence like lasagna". This line cleverly plays on the word "lasagna," where the "g" in "lasagna" is silent. Lil Wayne uses this as a metaphor to suggest that true gangsters or "G's" operate just as discreetly.

"5 Fingers of Death (explicit)" Freestyle by Logic: This freestyle took place on Sway in the Morning radio show, where Logic goes in over a series of different beats. He demonstrates his lyrical agility and improvisational ability by seamlessly adapting to the