Rap music is an energetic blend of rhythms, beats, and assonances. It can also be used to address pressing social issues such as drug use, sexual immorality, and poverty.
Rap covers can be an exciting way to bring a song alive for new listeners, but it’s essential to recognize the difference between a cover and an homage or send-up.
1. Thi’sl
The X Hustler label boasts an array of talented artists, but Thi’sl is the talk of the town. He recently released a 14-song mixtape titled Heavy Is The Head and describes himself as an avid hip-hop enthusiast who takes great pride in his hometown of St. Louis, Missouri.
He’s not afraid to express his opinion, especially on social issues that impact his community. He’s taken inspiration from rappers such as Kanye West and Lecrae in using his platform to address topics like police brutality, the state of rap music and the recent Michael Brown/ Eric Garner incident. Additionally, he’s an aspiring entrepreneur who created a line of affordable hats and t-shirts to assist those struggling financially get back on track.
Thi’sl takes great pride in his achievements. His latest album, Beautiful Monster, is his best work to date and serves as a testament to his commitment to excellence. His mission has always been to use music as an avenue to reach young people with the gospel; he’s been active in ministry for more than ten years now, performing at some of America’s top churches. Additionally, Thi’sl was recognized for his contributions to hip-hop by winning one of the coveted Hip Hop Awards back in 2010.
2. Straight Outta Compton
Straight Outta Compton is an iconic hip-hop album that revolutionized gangsta rap and forever altered the landscape of music. Its iconic covers and lyrics remain just as relevant today as they were back then in 1988.
30 years later, and its members still make waves in music. But it’s essential to remember the negative legacy Straight Outta Compton left on its era of rap music.
N.W.A’s bold storytelling on “Straight Outta Compton,” once seen as slapstick and cartoonland, revolutionized this genre with its lyricism and social political activism. Instead of trying to seduce advertisers or win over Middle America, N.W.A’s bold narrative served to empower disenfranchised black communities around the country.
Directed by Angus Batey, the film chronicles the rise and impact of NWA on hip-hop culture. Co-produced by former NWA members Dr. Dre and Ice Cube, it also features contributions from DJ Yella, Eazy-E and MC Ren.
3. Fugees
Fugees made a lasting impact on hip-hop culture during the 90s with their eclectic style of music that blended rap with soul. Their sound reflected their diverse backgrounds, including Haitian heritage. The group gained notoriety for creating music that transcended genres.
Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean and Pras Michel formed Tranzlator Crew in New Jersey but soon after changed it to Fugees due to their Haitian roots. These artists enjoyed great success during the 1990s with their first two albums: 1994’s Blunted on Reality and 1996’s The Score.
On The Score, they created an unforgettable album that fused soul, reggae and Caribbean music. It earned several Grammy nominations and quickly became one of the best selling hip-hop albums of all time.
One of their best songs was Lauryn Hill’s rendition of Roberta Flack’s iconic hit, “Killing Me Softly with His Song.” This reworking featured her powerful vocal abilities and poignant lyrics that captured both emotions and confidence.
Their cover of this song was an inspiring anthem that combined soul and hip-hop. It served as a testament to their abilities as musicians, but later on they were accused of using Enya’s sample without permission, leading to a copyright infringement lawsuit. Fortunately, all claims against the track were dispelled.
4. LL Cool J
LL Cool J is an American rapper who achieved success in the 1980s. Born in Queens, New York and beginning to rap at 10 years old, his grandfather bought him his first DJ equipment and LL began recording mix tapes of his own material before signing with fledging hip hop label Def Jam.
Throughout his career, LL Cool J has released several albums that have become classics within the music industry. These include Bigger and Deffer, Walking with a Panther, Mama Said Knock You Out, 14 Shots to the Dome, Mr. Smith and G.O.A.T.
He has earned multiple Grammy Awards and been recognized by various organizations. He has starred in a variety of movies, and currently appears on the crime drama series NCIS: Los Angeles. Additionally, he has made appearances on several television shows such as Lip Sync Battle.
In addition to his music career, LL Cool J is an active philanthropist. His charity organization Jump Ball strives to give back to the community around him.
Although some have criticized LL Cool J’s collaboration with country star Brad Paisley, the artist insists that it has done its job and sparked conversation. Additionally, he applauded the cover art of Taylor Swift’s upcoming album.
LL Cool J is an artist who has achieved great success in the entertainment industry, making music and acting his two lifelong passions. Despite having experienced a difficult childhood period, he has worked tirelessly to ensure both of his careers are flourishing today.
5. Tyler The Creator
Tyler The Creator has become one of the most iconic artists in rap music and also created some iconic album covers. Not only are his visuals stunning, but his intricate details will surely leave even experienced rap music connoisseurs speechless with envy.
He began his career as the leader of Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All (OFWGKTA), an underground hip-hop collective formed online that inspired many other rap music groups to form.
His first solo album was Bastard, a mixtape featuring sessions with Dr. TC – a fictional therapist who addressed various topics.
After his debut album in 2015, Tyler released three more studio albums – including Cherry Bomb – before joining forces with Ocean for Flower Boy in 2017. This collaboration reached number two on Billboard 200 and earned Tyler his first Grammy nomination.
It’s no secret that Odd Future’s music often incorporates elements of multiple genres, from classical to rock and reggae. His lyrics showcase this versatility perfectly.
He is renowned for his dark, spooky stories that he often conveys through his raps and music videos. Many of his covers deal with themes such as death, crime, and drugs.
6. Snoop Dogg
Snoop Dogg is one of the most renowned rappers in history. Known for his gangster image, he’s had several run-ins with law enforcement over the years; being convicted of cocaine possession in 1990 and pleading guilty to gun possession two years later.
Snoop Dogg has earned a reputation as an accomplished producer. He’s collaborated on songs by artists such as LL Cool J, Ice-T, Eric B & Rakim and Big Daddy Kane. Additionally, Snoop has featured in several films such as The Chronic, Murder Was the Case and The Game.
In 1992, Snoop was discovered by Dr. Dre and invited to be part of the soundtrack for Deep Cover. He would later appear as a featured artist on Dre’s first solo album The Chronic.
The hit single “Nuthin’ But A ‘G’ Thang” epitomized 90s West Coast G-Funk and helped Snoop achieve mainstream success.
Snoop Dogg’s signature song is “Gin and Juice,” from his debut studio album Doggystyle, which explores the theme of an unexpected house party and served as his signature call-to-arms.
Snoop has released several albums throughout his career, all of which have sold well. His 1998 album Da Game Is to Be Sold, Not to Be Told was his first for No Limit Records and reached the top of Billboard charts; shortly thereafter he signed with Geffen Records/Star Trak Entertainment in 2004.