Are Mumble Rappers Truly Lyricists? Debunking the Debate
The perception of mumble rappers regarding their lyrical abilities is highly subjective and varies widely among artists and listeners. Mumble rap is characterized by its emphasis on melody and rhythm over complex lyricism, often prioritizing catchy hooks and a relaxed delivery style. This approach has led to a dynamic and ongoing debate about whether mumble rappers can be considered legitimate lyricists.
Some mumble rappers genuinely believe in their lyrical prowess, viewing themselves as artists who convey emotion, mood, or a specific lifestyle. Renowned mumble rappers like Lil Uzi Vert, Lil Yachty, and Future have occasionally aligned their focus with the mood and vibe of their music, arguably differentiating their approach from traditional lyrical complexity.
Conversely, many traditional hip-hop fans and critics critique mumble rappers for their perceived simplicity in lyrics, often disqualifying them from being classified as true lyricists. This criticism can lead to significant divides in how different audiences appreciate and evaluate mumble rap, highlighting the subjective nature of lyrical talent in the broader hip-hop community.
Modern Trends and the Bandwagon Effect
Unfortunately, recent trends indicate that many true lyricists are now embracing the mumble rap genre, possibly due to its current mainstream success. This phenomenon raises interesting questions about the self-perception and public image of artists in the modern music industry. It is not uncommon to see talented lyricists like Young Thug or Lil Uzi Vert joking about being able to compete with the legendary Eminem, despite their recognition of their own lyrical limitations.
For instance, Lil Pump n?i ti?ng with his statement, “Fuck your old heads I don’t care about none of that lyrical shit I’m just having fun.” This quote encapsulates the laid-back, feel-good nature of mumble rap, where the emphasis is more on the overall vibe and less on intricate wordplay. This difference in focus can be compared to the distinction between technical vocalists like Sabrina Claudio and emotionally resonant artists like Sade. Both are skilled in their respective domains, but the sense of connection with listeners differs due to the unique styles and delivery methods.
Understanding Skill and Strength
Most successful artists have a clear understanding of their skill level and strengths. The Migos and Future, for example, recognize that they would never match the lyricism of Kendrick Lamar, J Cole, or Joyner Lucas. Instead, they focus on creating music with a particular vibe or feeling, which is how they stand out in the industry. This understanding is crucial for artists like Young Thug, Travis Scott, and Lil Uzi Vert, who have a knack for making great music but are well-aware that their lyrics fall short of those of their more nuanced counterparts.
The emergence of new styles and artists requires expanding the metrics used to evaluate their performance. While it is important to identify and weed out the trash and fad artists, many new styles bring value that should be appreciated based on their unique qualities. Artists like Young Thug or Travis Scott have moments of brilliance, but they understand that their strength lies in the vibe and overall feel of the music, not in intricate lyricism.
Conclusion
The debate over whether mumble rappers can be considered true lyricists is complex and multifaceted. While some mumble rappers genuinely believe in their lyrical talents, others are adept at understanding their strengths and focusing on the vibe and feel of their music. As the music industry evolves, it is essential to expand our definitions of talent and appreciate the unique contributions of each artist, whether they are lyricists, vibe-masters, or somewhere in between.
Ultimately, the perception of lyrical ability in mumble rappers will continue to be a topic of discussion among fans, critics, and artists alike. As we shift our focus and expand our metrics, we can better appreciate the diverse contributions to the ever-changing landscape of hip-hop.