.jpg)
African Rappers
A Shift to Conscious Music or is it Just Reality?
By Linda A. Annan
Recent Africa's musical artists have experimented with rap music since its introduction to the continent in the 1990s. American rappers and “gangster” wannabes in Africa were usually middle-school and high-school students spitting lyrics by hard core rappers like Nas and the late Notorious BIG, sometimes with no knowledge of their effect and even the depth to which the words run in the lives of these artists. Though these aspiring rappers started by emulating a lifestyle they may or may not have completely understood and possibly losing their individualities along the path, they appear to be finding their own voices and unique styles with confidence.
Today, most African rappers are diverting to conscious music, though it is one of the slowest-selling genres in spite of its constructiveness; little do you see of the “gangster” rap they were determined to imitate. They seem to have grown into their own personalities, not hesitating to project their distinctiveness into their music.
Past featured artists in Obaasema are a corroboration of this shift, in addition to the countless number of up-and-coming ones. Though most are aiming at educating and inspiring people, specifically the youth, they are also doing an incredible job of entertaining listeners. Wanlov , Blitz , Soulfège , Kae Sun , and Titus are all a great example of this emerging focus. Most of their lyrics encourage listeners, particularly Africans to join in some form of revolution where the continent (Africa) or the world is concerned. Their talents help tell their story and not someone else's, one whose life they may never be able to relate to.
American-based Ghanaian rapper Blitz shares his views on this sudden change in course: “When you come here and you realize that they do the same thing that we do back home, it starts to hit you like, you know, we can talk about our history through hip-hop, we can talk about our lives through hip-hop. And it just so happens that it sounds a little more eloquent, a lot more conscious, but I wouldn't necessarily say it's consciousness. It's just realizing that you can talk about yourself and it's actually all good to do that.”
One estimable act to be acknowledged is that most of these artists are also involved in a cause, some even performing at charitable events, most of whose proceeds go to specific African countries in need. Other artists also veer toward inspiring the youth and promoting self-development and empowerment programs.
Though conscious artists are increasingly multiplying around the globe, it has been immensely difficult for them to overtake the airwaves from so-called contemporary music filled with nothing but fatuous messages. Very few African-American rappers like Common, Talib Kweli, and The Roots who fall into the
more realistic group have been able to do so and even with these renowned artists, it is still tough.
Reality or consciousness, African rappers who choose this route must be ready to endure the consequences of embarking upon a positive change in the midst of mainstream popular culture —limited or no airplay.
NATURAL HAIR AT THE WORK PLACE
Posted: July 12, 2010
CUT YOUR LOSSES
Posted: June 09, 2010
WHEN TO CALL IT QUITS
Posted: May 21, 2010
SHATTERING THE GLASS CEILING
Posted: Apr. 22, 2010
WISH THERE WERE MORE OF YOU?
Posted: Apr. 5, 2010
NAME ISSUES
Posted: Mar. 25, 2010