Rap is Vulnerable
The first thing a rap critic will say is that the music promotes violence, drugs, sexism, etc. While in some cases that is true, there are quite a few rappers who talk about subjects of more substance that are relatable and make you think. J. Cole is one of those rappers. The single ‘Crooked Smile’ is a perfect example of how he does this.
In the new series of MTV’s ‘Life & Rhymes’ J. Cole talks about the song’s meaning for him and his humble beginnings. The idea behind ‘Life & Rhymes’ is to have a featured artist break down specific lyrics from a particular song and then explain the significance and meaning behind it. Cole took a nostalgic trip back to his old apartment in Queens, NYC and talks about the powerful meaning behind ‘Crooked Smile.’
Cole shows a different side to what rap is. It’s vulnerable. In the first half of the episode he takes viewers inside the small room he had before he blew up as a rapper and talks about the struggles coming up in the game. He talks about being behind on his rent and his landlord letting him miss months of payment because he believed in his talent. It’s these kinds of stories, these vulnerabilities shows how rap and the hip-hop culture is so much for than what critics think.
In order to touch your listeners rappers have to open up, and he does so in ‘Crooked Smile.’
‘They tell me I should fix my grill cause I got money now
I ain’t gon’ sit around and front like I ain’t thought about it’
In the episode he talks about being just like everyone else and having insecurities. He admits to not being insecure again until he got in the spotlight as a well known rapper. Many have questioned why Cole doesn’t get his fixed teeth since he has money to but he isn’t worrying about what people say about his teeth and wanted to use the song to empower other people.
‘A perfect smile is more appealing but it’s funny how
My shit is crooked look at how far I done got without it
I keep my twisted grill, just to show the kids it’s real
We ain’t picture perfect but we worth the picture still’
It’s an empowering song telling everyone we shouldn’t care of what society says trying to tell you you’re not good enough, don’t look good enough, etc. It’s reminding you to be happy no matter your situation and embrace your flaws by being comfortable in the skin you’re in.
J. Cole’s motivation for ‘Life & Rhymes’ is to touch the people. He does.
Watch the Cole’s ‘Life & Rhyme’s here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dcbva85QQsw
Rap Is.. 