Defending Rap in the Most Objective Way Possible

RanterInShades’ Defense of Rap

In a vlog-style defense of rap, RanterInShades highlights the genre’s skill and creativity, especially in the late ’80s and mid-’90s. He praises rappers’ flow—the ability to deliver rhythmic lyrics without running out of breath—and argues that writing meaningful lyrics and creating inventive beats are talents in their own right, even if they don’t involve playing guitar or drums.

Challenging Common Criticisms

RanterInShades takes aim at the familiar claim that “rap sucks,” particularly when it’s based on mainstream acts such as Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj, Drake, Rick Ross, Big Sean, and Soulja Boy. He jokes that criticism of Soulja Boy is old news (“he’s not a boy at all”) and points out that listeners can explore older and underground artists. His personal favorite is KRS-One, whom he praises for speaking plainly about the world and calling out weak MCs.

He also challenges the idea that rap only covers sex, money, and women. Many songs, he notes, address poverty, discrimination, hardship, and community.

Double Standards and a Call to Listen

To highlight what he sees as double standards among rock fans, RanterInShades compares rappers’ deaths with those of Freddie Mercury, Jimi Hendrix, and Kurt Cobain. He also contrasts complaints about rap songs about romance with Led Zeppelin’s “Whole Lotta Love.”

He acknowledges that it would be unfair to dismiss critics as jealous, especially since he has his own musical dislikes, including Lady Gaga and Justin Bieber. He closes by urging viewers to listen beyond what’s on the radio before judging rap.

Personality appearing: RanterInShades, the presenter.