Analyze Your Music Preferences: Why I Don’t Enjoy Rap Music

I wouldn’t generalize or condemn an entire genre of music, but I have my preferences. Rap music, while incredibly popular, is a genre that I don’t particularly enjoy. However, it’s not quite as disliked as country music. Here’s why.

Popularity and Appeal

Let’s be clear, rap is incredibly popular. And it’s no secret that many younger people, especially men, find comfort in rap music. For them, it’s often seen as a form of misplaced masculinity, where one tries to embody the ‘ideal man’. This can be somewhat cringe-worthy at times, even from a personal standpoint.

Motivations for Appreciation

Some people craving a sense of belonging might only listen to rap as a way to fit in or be seen as cool. This was a common occurrence during my time in high school, in the late 1990s and early 2000s. It’s not uncommon to witness this kind of behavior.

Moreover, many people, particularly those who hail from non-U.S. backgrounds, might find themselves attracted to rap because they believe it provides a glimpse into American culture. It’s a way for them to connect and feel more connected to American society.

Toxic Elements and Appreciation

One of the most challenging aspects of rap is certainly the presence of toxic elements. These can often be found in country music as well. However, I must say that when done in a way that’s purely absurd and bordering on parody—think Eminem, I.C.P., or Wheeler Walker Jr.—I can appreciate it in a limited, “special” way.

Social Issues and Empathy in Rap

Another reason I reconnect with certain types of rap is the fact that it often discusses social issues. These topics are relatable to many people, especially those from a low-income background, as they promote empathy and a sense of shared struggle, irrespective of race.

For instance, I’m a big admirer of Tiken Jah Fakoly, a reggae artist, who focuses on political issues and hopes for a better future in Africa. He even tackles a variety of emotions, particularly if you understand French, which makes him a refreshing contrast to the more toxic elements in rap. It’s clear that not all reggae is 'stoner music'—it’s just another genre done right.

Personal Musical Preferences

Ultimately, I have no issue with rap music. I just might not get into the sound or the style. It isn’t meant for my preferences. And similarly, I feel the same way about country music. Growing up in the U.S. but being raised by Europeans certainly shaped my musical tastes.

I might have a handful of rap songs I enjoy because they’re catchy, the lyrics resonate, or the music evokes specific emotions. Pop or almost any other genre of music can have that appeal if it strikes the right chord.

The Impact of Music on People

However, it often grates on me when I see others gravitating towards rap and country, especially men. It’s often seen as a megaphone for toxic masculinity. Beyond this, I often feel that rap and country artists have a particular attitude that I find off-putting.

One sign I often notice is a pushy or arrogant personality—people who need to prove something about themselves to everyone. And while this can be found among metalheads as well, it’s a much more pronounced trait among those who are way too into rap and country music.

Genre Diversity and Open-Mindedness

In my personal experience, people who are heavily into one or two genres tend to dismiss music from other genres. This is something that irks me to no end. I’ve always maintained a diverse musical taste, and I listen to a wide range of music.

My musical taste, in fact, is so diverse that I hesitate to claim a favorite genre. However, some genres I listen to more frequently than others. Even so, I think being closed-minded about music—sticking to one or two genres—can be quite limiting and tiresome, just like being overly rigid about religion.

So, in a way, my attitude towards closed-mindedness in music mirrors my view of closed-mindedness in religion. I don’t mind the genre itself, but the followers often provoke a response from me, primarily because of their attitudes and behaviors.

In conclusion, while I have my reasons for not enjoying rap music, it’s a genre that many others love and appreciate. Understanding why we have different tastes can help us respect each other’s preferences instead of condemning them.