The Double-Edged Sword of Content Creation

A case for prioritizing meaningful work, fair deals, and respect in storytelling.

Hey honeys and hustlers,

Rap beefs are unmatched entertainment and the source of ended careers. The rap beef between Kendrick Lamar and Drake marked a significant moment in hip-hop that challenged fans to think about how they defined 'greatness' in the genre. Was it more catchy lyrics? Was it music you could dance to? Was is the meaning behind the lyrics? Or, was it how well you resonated with the artists? With Kendrick Lamar's announcement of a pop-up show on Juneteenth, the effects of this beef may endure through the summer, and all the record-breaking numbers from his recent diss tracks will keep increasing. Sorry to all the Drake fans reading this (read = I'm not actually sorry, this run is incredible).

As with any beef, there have been some opinions on who the real winner or loser was from prominent emcees. The voices of Schoolboy Q, Vince Staples, and Questlove offered insights into the genre's current state and future direction. We've seen a significant trend where rappers expand their influence beyond music, engaging with audiences through various media platforms like TikTok. While this shift allows artists to diversify their brand and reach, it also raises a critical question: Are we losing the essence of hip-hop in the process?

The Case for Meaningful Music

Hip-hop has always been a powerful medium for storytelling, social commentary, and cultural expression. The heart of hip-hop addresses real-life issues, personal struggles, and societal challenges resonates deeply with listeners, and stands the test of time. In a podcast, Schoolboy Q said that the problem with hip-hop currently is that rappers are turning into content creators. Instead of prioritizing substance, they're chasing trends.

Authenticity is a cornerstone of hip-hop. Fans are drawn to artists who share their genuine experiences and emotions. When rappers focus on content creation, there’s a risk of losing this authenticity. The pressure to produce constant content can lead to superficiality, where the depth and honesty that define great hip-hop are sacrificed for likes and views.

Negotiating Better Deals

The creative industry has long been criticized for its exploitative practices, and hip-hop is no exception. Many artists find themselves trapped in unfavorable contracts that do not reflect their true worth. When asked about his view of the rap beef between Drake and Kendrick Lamar, Vince Staples talked about what he felt rappers should focus on – negotiating better deals with record labels and streaming services. Referencing Taylor Swift's efforts in this area, he expressed that these were the types of issues that often get lost in the mix when we discuss the path to success for artists.

Negotiating fair deals isn't just about financial gain; it's about securing artistic freedom and control over one's work. When artists are fairly compensated, they can invest more in their craft, take creative risks, and produce higher-quality music. This empowerment leads to a healthier, more sustainable music industry where artists can thrive without compromising their integrity.

Respecting Women in Hip-Hop

Hip-hop has faced scrutiny for its often misogynistic lyrics and imagery. The portrayal and treatment of women in the genre have been problematic, perpetuating harmful narratives and disrespect. Perhaps the most disregarded comment on the rap beef was the one from Questlove, urging artists to move away from defaming women in diss tracks (as both artists took jabs at the women in their lives). On Instagram, he wrote:

“Nobody won the war. This wasn’t about skill. This was a wrestling match level mudslinging and takedown by any means necessary — women & children (& actual facts) be damned. Same audience wanting blood will soon put up ‘rip’ posts like they weren’t a part of the problem. Hip hop is truly dead.”

Respecting women in hip-hop is not just a moral imperative; it's also a strategic one. Let's be honest, women are running hip-hop right now. Yes, I'm biased. Yes, I stand by what I said. As the genre continues to grow and reach diverse audiences, promoting respectful messages about women will help hip-hop continue to become a safe space for women who are likely also needed at the negotiation table when it comes to fair treatment and pay.

There will always be people who listen to rap songs and say "It's just poetry/talking with a beat, not real artistry." But honestly, can't that be translated to almost any culturally relevant form of art? Photo series on subcultures, documentary or narrative films on non-mainstream ways of life, YouTube channels or podcasts on super niche topics. There are always going to be people who disagree with the cultural significance of alternative forms of creativity. As fans of storytelling and participants in this vibrant culture, it is our responsibility to support these positive changes and ensure that hip-hop remains a powerful and inclusive force in the world of music and beyond.

Here are some ways I think we can all be greater stewards of storytelling, as told by incredible music artists:

• Let creation for social platforms stem from your experiences, expertise, and emotions. Compelling stories create a bond between the creator and the viewer/reader/listener. This connection is far more valuable than the transient engagement generated by content creation. Numbers are great, genuine connection is better.

• Make deals in good faith with greater transparency. I don't post what I make publicly, but will happily answer questions about my projects deals and budgets privately. I've had a lot of other creators who have been willing to do the same to ensure that we're charging fair market rates for our work and being compensated accordingly. Sometimes undercharging happens, and it's up to you what you deem appropriate to give away for free. A rising tide lifts all boats, and calmly demanding what you're worth helps everyone else in the creative space.

• Show some respect. Respect for yourself, for the creators that came before you, for the creators making incredible work alongside you, and for the creators to come in future generations. Respect is a cornerstone of the creative industry – it's the glue that binds innovative collaborations, diversity, professional relationships, ethical practices, and personal well-being. We don't get anywhere, collectively, without it.

Thank you for reading. Thank you for allowing me to be an instigator. And thank you for being a part of this beautifully messy creative space. Stream Rapsody’s new album for good vibes, good hip-hop, and good North Carolina weather (we have rain in the forecast⛈️).

Please Hustle Responsibly,

🤙🏾✨

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