Why Is Desiigner So Difficult to Understand?

Desiigner, a renowned artist in the music industry, is often praised for his unique style, but his music can also prove difficult to grasp for many listeners. This article explores the various reasons behind this, including his distinct vocal delivery, the use of slang and vernacular, and the integration of auto-tune and other vocal effects.

Complex Vocal Style

One of the primary reasons Desiigner's music is challenging to comprehend is his vocal delivery. His rapid-fire verses and melodic hooks are a hallmark of his style. Listeners who are unfamiliar with his unique cadence may struggle to catch every word, making it an art form to follow along with his music.

Elusive Slang and Vernacular

Desiigner frequently employs slang and colloquial expressions that can be perplexing for listeners. These expressions are deeply rooted in specific cultural contexts, and their meanings may not be immediately apparent. For example, fans of music from different cultures may find it difficult to understand the nuances and colloquialisms used by Desiigner. This adds an extra layer of complexity to his music, making it less accessible to a broader audience.

Ad-Libs and Repetition

Another aspect of Desiigner's music that can make it hard to understand is his liberal use of ad-libs and repetitive phrases. While these elements are often used musically, they can sometimes overshadow the main lyrics, making it difficult to follow the narrative. The frequent use of these elements can be both an artistic choice and a challenge for the listener to decipher the overall message of the song.

Auto-Tune and Vocal Effects

Desiigner's extensive use of auto-tune and other vocal effects also contributes to the difficulty in understanding his music. Auto-tune distorts his voice, altering the natural intonation and pitch. This can make it harder for listeners to identify and track the words, especially when combined with rapid-fire delivery and melodic elements. Vocal effects can add a unique texture to his songs, but they also complicate the listening experience for some.

Content and Themes

The themes explored by Desiigner can be quite abstract and deeply personal. His lyrics often delve into complex emotional and philosophical themes, which might not resonate or be immediately clear to every listener. While this depth can add layers of meaning for some, it can also make his music more challenging to understand. His personal experiences, influences, and thoughts often weave through his lyrics, creating a multifaceted narrative that listeners must decipher.

Is Mumble Rap the Future?

Desiigner's style is part of a broader sub-genre known as mumble rap. This new movement has given rise to many artists who, while not lacking in talent, are known for their often unintelligible lyrical content. Some would argue that artists like Desiigner, Lil Uzi Vert, and Young Thug are taking over the music scene. However, critics suggest that mumble rap is a fleeting fad, and that these artists may not have long-term staying power in the industry.

While Future, one of the pioneers of mumble rap, has managed to establish a unique sound that has resonated with fans and industry professionals alike, other mumble rap artists often lack the artistic depth and versatility that is required for long-term success. Future's collaborations with Drake and solo work demonstrate his ability to stand alone as a compelling artist, whereas many of his contemporaries are primarily serviceable in the background as featured artists.

In conclusion, Desiigner and other mumble rap artists present unique challenges and rewards for listeners. While his music may be difficult to understand and follow, it is also rich in artistic expression and personal storytelling. Whether one enjoys this genre is largely a matter of personal taste, but it is undeniable that the unique approach to vocal delivery and thematic depth of Desiigner's work sets him apart.