The State v. Hip-Hop
Jamal Knox was sent to prison for his lyrics. The courts have a history of criminalizing rap music.
Browsing Tag
Rap
10 posts
Viewfinder: Nipsey Hussle’s Celebration of Life and Funeral Procession in Los Angeles
Masons attend a memorial celebration for slain rapper Nipsey Hussle at the Staples Center arena on April 11th, 2019 in Los Angeles, California.
‘You Know Who I Am’: Saweetie Demands Recognition and Respect
Saweetie's brash attitude is more than bravado—it's an essential part of her plan to dominate rap.
The FBI’s Long, Alarming History of Investigating Black Musicians
The agency's reported investigation of rapper Meek Mill's latest prison sentence seems to be an exception to a rule.
Gucci Mane’s Post-Incarceration Redemption
The rapper has made headlines for his prolific artistry and his rap sheet. His new memoir seeks to show where both came from.
Rap Music Remains Uniquely Threatening
Listeners are more likely to assume violent lyrics are autobiographical if they’re identified with the genre. By Tom…
I Listen to Everything, Except Rap and Country Music
While the two branches of music might appear to have nothing in common, they rose to pop-culture establishment in very similar ways. Today, they share the same songs and the same stage.
Drug Use Glamorized in Rap Lyrics
References to illegal drug use in rap music have increased dramatically over the past two decades, according to a new study.