KRS-One, a towering determine in hip-hop identified for his outspokenness, is making waves as soon as once more together with his candid criticism of the style he helped form. Throughout a latest look on 97.9 The Field, the Boogie Down Productions frontman took intention at a disturbing pattern in hip-hop: artists being elevated to legendary standing solely after their demise.
The dialog was prompted by the demise of rapper and radio persona Fatman Scoop, who died on August 30. “It is such a disgrace that we speak about him on this method,” KRS-One mentioned. “Hip-hop has acquired to cease doing this. They solely transfer on when guys recover from it.
KRS-One’s feedback replicate a broader frustration that tradition too usually ignores the skills of artists in life and solely celebrates them posthumously. “We must be being attentive to Fatman Scoop as his profession thrives,” he continued, noting that Scoop by no means acquired the radio drama or recognition he deserved whereas he was alive. In line with KRS-One, this mannequin is a significant downside within the hip-hop neighborhood.
KRS-One did not flinch when the interviewer requested if different genres may extra appropriately honor deceased artists. “Different genres suck,” he says bluntly. “We don’t provide AFTest them out. hip hop working sht. For KRS-One, hip-hop, as probably the most influential style in modern music, ought to set the usual for the way artists are appreciated and remembered.
This is not the primary time KRS-One has expressed considerations concerning the route of contemporary hip-hop. Throughout a panel at Essence Pageant 2023, he shocked the viewers by labeling trendy rappers as “traitors” to the unique intent of the style. “What folks name rap or hip-hop at this time is a shame to our tradition,” he declared. “Absolute betrayal, disrespect and shame… If you understand what authentic hip-hop is all about and also you select to do the alternative, you’re a traitor.”
Whereas KRS-One reveals respect for modern artists like Kendrick Lamar, it is clear that he believes hip-hop has strayed too removed from its roots. His name to motion serves as a reminder to followers and the trade at giant: Admire the expertise in entrance of you earlier than it’s too late. For KRS-One, now could be the time to offer flowers to artists whereas they will nonetheless scent them.
KRS-One addressed the demise of Fatman Scoop and accused hip-hop of solely paying tribute to rap icons after their deaths.
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