When rap first originated it automatically gained popularity. 90s rap was like poetic hip hop, giving rappers the ability to express their artistic side with words. It was used as a voice to the world of hip-hop. Rappers used their music to give listeners a point of view of their world and struggles. RAP is an acronym for rhythm and poetry. Although most of today’s rap is not as poetic it used to be, both eras of rap are very influential.

A very persuasive 90s rap group was N.W.A. Their music expressed the world of police brutality and the discrimination African Americans faced. Most people would not view their music as empowering, but as a menace to society. N.W.A made songs not just as entertainment but to voice their opinions. Their music was banned from any mainstream American radio stations, yet their album sold to about 1 million copies. Tupac was another influential rapper in the 90s. To many, he is titled as a rap legend. He has sold more than 75 million albums worldwide and his music was viewed as introspective. He unfiltered the world of growing up black and explaining the deprivation of going through racism and living in the ghettos.

Lauryn Hill is different from most of today’s female rappers. Her music was soulful. It is the definition of rap and R&B. Her career was soul driven and focused on the inner city blacks and Latinos and self love. As a female rapper, there were a lot of expectations for set for her, but  Lauryn Hill is independent and embraces who she is and encourages others to the same. She is also listed as one of the top 10 rappers of all time. Biggie, another top 10 rapper of all time was became a legendary rapper. He was a storyteller rapper just like Tupac and Nas. By describing the struggles in the ghettos and problems most African Americans go through, Biggie was known as a legendary rapper because of his astonishing usage of lyricism. He was very influential because he could relate to his audience. He also showed a lot of attitude and charisma in his music.

Most of today’s rap is not as uplifting as 90s music. Today’s rap artist like Kodak Black, Lil Yachty and Lil Uzi Vert are not motivational rappers or storyteller rappers that inspire people. Most of their songs are not lyrical or rhythmic, but repetitive. These rappers are known as “Turn Up” rappers. Rappers who make music just for entertainment only with no lyricism. These kinds of rappers do not put much work into their music. They just throw in a catchy beat talking about out their riches, drugs, and boasting their ego.

Not all today’s rappers are non rhythmic and repetitive. J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar are rappers who rap with a 90s vibe. Their songs contain great tempo, rhythm, and style. Kendrick Lamar and J.Cole are both storyteller rappers. Kendrick Lamar is described as Tupac’s reincarnation. He even described himself as “The offspring of the legacy”. Kendrick Lamar was even  invited to the president’s house and rapped for Malia Obama on her birthday. Kendrick Lamar is one of the top Inspiring rappers today. He raps about wanting change and most of the songs he raps about do not contain him talking about his ego. J. Cole songs are deep and emotional, yet the songs are still entertaining to listen to. The hook of most his songs can pull you in and understand what he is going through or been through. Also Pro Era and The Internet are rap and R&B groups who rap with meaning. Their music is a mix of old school rhythm and a modern remix of jazz.

Although rap has changed over the years, there are still rap artist who rap to inspire people. Sadly, most popular artists today make songs that lack meaning once so prevalent in rap music.