It is important to promote positive and healthy ideas through rap music
CANADA: Rap is a musical genre that started in the black neighbourhoods of the US in the late 60s or the early 70s. African-Americans were the ones who introduced the idea of rhythm, rhyme and repetition altogether into one lyrical component, giving birth to rap music. Amid the chaos and brutality in black neighbourhoods, this new form of music served as a medium for African-Americans to peacefully raise their voice against the tyranny and racism of white men.
During the mid-80s and 90s rap grew into a prominent musical genre within American societies due to its popularity. It was transformed from being the voice of oppression into a lifestyle of drugs, guns and money. Artists started emerging from underground avenues and became commercial distributors by selling their lyrics and ideas through the visualisation of wealth, luxury and other indulgences. By the 2000s, rap music shamefully lost its original purpose. Today, it is nothing but a mere populist genre where ego-centric musicians voice out their self-righteous statements.
Music is considered as a source of relaxation and entertainment. Every generation has experienced its own defining genre, with each consisting of a unique message. Therefore, it is important to promote positive and healthy ideas through rap music so that teenagers learn to build a future of peace and inclusivity.
Usama Chohan
Published in The Express Tribune, May 6th, 2020.
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