Black rappers

A screenshot from the Smino album Luv 4 Rent shows men getting ready in a mirror

‘Luv 4 Rent’ Brings Smino Back Into the Spotlight

Liam Jackson, Michigan State University

After years of silence, the St. Louis rapper is back.…

November 11, 2022

Kendrick holding a mic in his right hand

10 Years On, ‘good kid, m.A.A.d. city’ Still Reflects the Genius of Kendrick Lamar

Jesus Garcia, Boston University

The talented rapper's 2012 album firmly established his artistic ingenuity.…

February 28, 2022

Illustration of Young Thug. (Illustration by Katelyn McManis, Columbia College Chicago)

Young Thug Previews a New Sound on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concerts

Nathan Kolodney, Wesleyan University

From his generosity toward young hip-hop artists to his passionate performances, this rapper has proven that he deserves the title of hip-hop G.O.A.T.…

August 18, 2021

In a review of The Life of Pi'erre 5, an illustration of Pierre Bourne

On ‘The Life of Pi’erre 5,’ Pierre Bourne Stays in His Musical Comfort Zone

Nathan Kolodney, Wesleyan University

As expected, the production on the album is incredible, but the rapping itself leaves something to be desired.…

July 3, 2021

An art piece of rap artist Polo G against a brown background. (Illustration by Yana Ramos Cutrim, George Fox University)

Polo G’s ‘Hall of Fame’ Is a Messy Attempt at Vulnerability

Anna Hupp, University of Wyoming

The moody soundscape and raw, vulnerable lyrics of the artist’s new LP are impressive, but his blind instinct for self-preservation is less so.…

June 27, 2021

An illustration of the American rapper DMX.

The Legendary Life and Extraordinary Talents of DMX

Daniel Buccafusca, East Stroudsburg University

The American rapper should not be remembered as a troubled musician, but rather as a man that has taught the world how important it is to be vulnerable.…

April 14, 2021

Christmas in the Future is Black, Queer and Monochromatic For Lil Nas X

Arianna Taylor, University of Rochester

Wearing silver pants and a long elfish beard in 'Holiday,' the singer gives Christmas a futuristic take. What does it mean to see him in hip-hop as he redefines musical and cultural boundaries?…

December 9, 2020

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