Artists we grow up with, influence us
Each generation has an iconic artist that adds a little more into the culture of Hip Hop. If you were born in the 80’s you had The Notorious B.I.G., Tupac Shakur, and Dr. Dre. Those born in the ’90s, artists like Lil Wayne, Future, and Drake might have made an impact in your life. If you’re apart of this new generation you had artists like the late Juice Wrld, Lil Uzi Vert, and Travis Scott. All of these artists have an influence on your life today. Whether by how you act or what you listen to.
Lately, rapper Roddy Ricch has gotten some heat from the Hip Hop community for who he states as his influences in the rap game. He stated “I was born in ‘98. I was born after Tupac and Biggie died. What do you expect me to rap like? Who do you expect me to look up to? These n***** was the soundtrack to my life at one point, when I was in the trenches doing bad, and crying, and really going through it. These were my n***** getting me through this s***.” These remarks came after Roddy named artist like Future and Young Thug as his influences
Are these new artists supposed to look up to artists because of their legacy or because of their relatability?
This new wave of artists will sound less and less like some of the legends in the game. This is due to their lives in the 2000s-2010s being different than someone living in the ’80s-’90s.
There should always be a level of respect that the legends should receive for paving the way for current generations to prosper, but just because you don’t understand this new wave of music and the artists that are a product of it, doesn’t mean that they are any less iconic to those growing up with them.
Music is a representation of the world that we live in.
Rap/Hip Hop was born in a generation where people felt oppressed and unable to express themselves in a way that felt safe. This is something that holds true to this day, but what has changed is the message.
What do you guys think about Roddy Ricch’s comments? Do the new rappers have to pay homage? Or do they get a pass because of their age?
Lastly, let us know your thoughts in the comments
