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Should rappers speak out more on social and political issues?

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rafsta:

--- Quote from: AndrE JosE on April 12, 2005, 12:54:59 AM ---Hiphop now has a huge presence in U.S society and that of the world. Political and social issues have traditionally been addressed in hiphop, but this phase appears to be coming to an end, in a new era of rap. Mainstream rap seems more concerned with recycling the material image of the thugged out era, while ignoring the accompanying revolutionary spirit and consciousness. Has this consciousness reached it's end of days as rap begins to look more like a get rich scheme, rather than being based on the artist's ability and substance? >:( 8) ;D

--- End quote ---

if theyre well educated then why not speak on political issues ? i dont like rappers fabricating history to spark controversy *caughs* rass kass...

Sikotic™:
If they feel compelled to, then fuck yeah. If anyone feels like sharing their views then they should.

TraceOneInfinite:

--- Quote from: AndrE JosE on April 12, 2005, 12:54:59 AM ---Hiphop now has a huge presence in U.S society and that of the world. Political and social issues have traditionally been addressed in hiphop, but this phase appears to be coming to an end, in a new era of rap. Mainstream rap seems more concerned with recycling the material image of the thugged out era, while ignoring the accompanying revolutionary spirit and consciousness. Has this consciousness reached it's end of days as rap begins to look more like a get rich scheme, rather than being based on the artist's ability and substance? >:( 8) ;D

--- End quote ---

The Zulu Nation started out as a street gang, and when they turned to hip-hop it was primarily as a tool to raise the consciousness of the streets, and it was also used as a tool of resistance for the poor and disenfranchised.  It was the voice of the streets.  I think it was Chuck D who called it the black CNN.  Sure, it was also about partying and having a good time and all of that, but even rappers like 2pac who claimed who brought thug life to the forefront also had a political side.  2pac knew what the music was really for, that it was a waste if it didn't improve the plight of his people, that it was a waste if it didn't advance the struggle of his people. 

Like anything in life, you can use it for good or you can use it for evil.  Today rappers are just wasting the art form.  Even rappers like Talib Kweli, Mos Def and Common really aren't that conscious anymore.  Remember when Ice Cube used to be a political rapper?  Even the Chronic was political in my opinoin, it was speaking on police brutality, the LA riots, Rodney King trial, black empowerment.  But Dre's latest record has almost zero political content.  For that matter, back in the day, even pop rappers like MC Hammer had a few uplifting, empowering tracks on their albums.  Or a gangsta rapper like Ice Tea still dropped some gems of knowledge.  Times have changed, and it's getting worse. 

Kal EL:
While I would LOVE to hear content overall this Bullshit. I have to agree that it would only be good if the person had A) a valid point and B) something to say other than murder,steal, bitches.

Diabolical:
I have never heard 50 Cent say one intelligent thing about politics or society.

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