Yes, and they will all be truly missed...[ahem]. I have less than zero respect for anyone involved in the rap world. I used to be a fan back in the days of Run-DMC and Hammer, but it's just gotten ridiculous. They make the '80s glam rockers look calm, composed, and reserved.
Their "music" (I use the term loosely) videos are packed with people who can't speak english, who parade their gaudy jewelry, hats worn at odd angles, and big, expensive cars which most people will never be able to afford anyway.
I see most of these guys as being so incredibly shallow and materialistic to the point where it's just sickening. In so-called "urban culture," if you don't wear gold jewelry and have the latest Starter jersies, then you're not worth consideration. So what's the result? Guys who can't afford to feed their families are buying this crap in order to remain trendy. It's not just a fad, it's a genuine symbol of status to these people.
Probably worst of all, and the article touched on this subject, more and more black men think that education is a total dead-end. That's why you see so many trying to become "rap stars" and basketball players. They're trying for what they think is easy money. They don't seem to understand that an extremely small percentage of these guys actually go on to any form of success.
I don't buy the whole "every generation says this" line when it comes to rap. Young blacks need a strong slap across the face--and soon.
There is a demonstrable difference. Or did I somehow miss the Elvis and Chuck Berry songs that advocated killing cops and raping women?
Chill out. 99% of all that gangsta stuff is all an act. For a few years they dress and talk like gangstas and then it is all over. Every generation goes thru a nutty period.
Well, here is a "young black." Do it.