What do you think of rappers in general?

Question

I know you know that all rappers don't talk about violence and drugs and women, but why do most people, usually white people, think of them in that way? I certainly don't think all white artists are headbangers who snort powder, so why is it this way for black entertainers?

I guess what I mean to say is that in light of a news report I just heard, it seems that all people want to do is talk about the ones who promote these bad things. What about the others? You can't group one thing and focus on just that and then ignore the rest of the picture.

Answer 1

that kind of music just doesn't do anything for me.

Answer 2

Not all rappers do that, but a significant number of them do. And, the ones that do hold themselves to a higher standard are picked on by the rappers that violence, drugs, etc. The rappers that do talk about good things are accused by the bad rappers of "being white" or "corporate" or some other derogatory thing that makes them less than a rapper. So, I guess it probably confuses people. The public doesn't know who is a "real" rapper and who is not.

I love rap. But, I don't take it too seriously. People say a lot of things that they don't really mean. And I don't buy that "bad influence on children" thing- isn't it the parents' job to monitor that? Why should society be limited to what type of art they can see/hear because they are inadequate and irresponsible parents? But, I digress. Rap is great!

Answer 3

Well, the rappers that get the most exposure are the ones that talk about stupid stuff. Thee have a large audience amongst teenagers. The more "hardcore" the lyrics, the more likely they are to gain more exposure because of controversy and people who actually think they can relate to those lyrics. There are a whole lot of statistics about African-American males and the US jail system that are less than flattering...put these two together and you get the recipe for some stereotypes and prejudices.
In actuality most rappers are relatively nice people, basically just pandering to what the general public enjoys. They have to make their money somehow :S

Answer 4

I am a white chick that likes rap! stereotypes aren't always true! I am fascinated by the way they can rhyme and I love the beats and samples and all. I have respect for rappers as musicians. Some rappers do talk a little too much about violent stuff, etc, but that stuff is real, it's not like they made it up, it exists. Besides, it's just music, expressive art and I find it irresistable especially when I'm driving in my car.

Answer 5

In general I like black entertainers that can actually play music. By that I mean play instruments and can actually sing. Rap to me has nothing of the sort. Yeah they can rhyme words, and remix an old song to fit there words, but it is not the same as actual musical talent. I like Smokey, Lionel Richie, The Commodores, Jimi, and many other Black performers. To me Rappers just personify rude behavior and are too sexually explicit.

Answer 6

I don't really dig any of the rappers up on the mainstream scene right now, and I haven't for a while. I'll give credit to Ludacris and Jay-Z, but my tastes run more towards indie rap music like Bus Driver, MF Doom, People Under the Stairs, and Eyedea. I always tried to keep both my ears open when it comes to music.

Answer 7

I'm getting a lot from this question. It seems you want to know what WHITE people think of rappers. Blame it on stereotypes. No matter what we do, stereotypes like the ones you described will always be a part of American culture. Please don't take offense to what I'm about to say, but try focusing your time and energy on making God proud of you instead of asking questions that can never be answered.

Answer 8

In general I could do without some of the language..but it's all a part of contemporary musical art.....last night I listened to a young man singing about skateboarding and it was GREAT...it was on BET...and some of the words were "push, kick ....coast. etc..." and it had a wonderful jazzy affect. I want to get this cd....I'm a senior citizen and open to all music if done well. It's best to have an open mind and listen to everything...but it does not mean you have to like it....just enjoy what thrills you....and touches your heart.

Answer 9

Its not music. Just a beat, some stylized talking, the glorification of crime and the denegration of women. Why do so many african americans decide to take the path of a gangsta-rapper when they could raise themselves to something a lot better?

Answer 10

I don't listen to a lot of rap, but I like some. I think some people don't give it a chance because they lump it all together with the more negative stuff. Not that that excuses it, but I think if people would listen to it more they would realize there's good and bad, like other types of music.
Do you think most rappers deliberately try to encourage the b--a--image?

Answer 11

pardon me...it is not even music...there just talking...and if you will watch there music videos there nothing there sexy girls almost naked dancing like whores and just trying to promote sex.....flashing materiliastic views and style of life....just pure non sense...