Rap-culture has been in praise of the individual who adapts the most to structures, for individual gain. Success is measured not in the sustainability of the artist’s idea, but how the artist has sustained himself within the constraints of ruling ideas. It is blatantly reported by the successful themselves.

“Truthfully, I wanna rhyme, like, common sense / but I did three mills, I ain’t been trying to rhyme like Common since” – Jay-Z

The credibility in these lines lays in its acknowledging of common sense as an alternative to our ruling structures. Its mere confession achieves praise. Relating to our own powerlessness, we appreciate when the powerful reveal their code. (Being in on it gives us a weird sense of equality, right?)

My notion is that we shouldn’t look to the succesful for the answers we so desperately need. They swallowed their decency, “kept it real,” and learned the game to get where they are. But so much more is at stake than any individual’s positioning.

The troubled, on the other hand, are out of necessity concerned with alternate realities. That’s why they make great artists. Indeed, a personal reality unbearable makes for new ideas that could be of gain for all. In a world we’ve made a dystopia, artists can show the way out.

Even the most high-minded scientists turn to art for inspiration. So let’s focus our attention to the honest artists and give them their due. Now, if I may be excused, I have some serious listening to do. Donny Hathaway all day, baby. Maybe I’ll pop some OC & AG too.

Editors Note: We want to welcome our newest Writer/Blogger on the site: Probably the best lyricist in Sweden B.K.A Kashal-Tee. Welcome onboard!

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