Music holds varying levels of significance for different individuals. Some find solace in it, while others consider it an integral part of their lives. It serves as the deepest connection with oneself, offering a lens. The most profound method of self-connection is through music. It allows you to discover the world in song lyrics and melodies.
When you’re feeling down and overwhelmed, music can help. It also contributes to happiness and enjoyment and serves various functions, such as bringing back memories and evoking strong feelings of nostalgia.
Like the majority of Gen Z, I attempt to listen to all genres of music and place a greater emphasis on the lyrics. I’ve been exposed to hundreds of different types of music. Music plays a crucial role in self-expression and helps people overcome obstacles. It can potentially alter people’s behaviors and even the world itself, leading to revolution. Additionally, it serves as a source of inspiration and triumph.
The transformative power of music is noteworthy; it has the potential to influence individuals and even bring about societal change, leading to global phenomena.
Beyond all genres, imagine starting your day by listening to hip-hop. You can regulate your energy by doing so and derive powerful empowerment from it. Hip-hop music has always been a major source of inspiration and happiness and typically possesses a strong emotional sense. It also manages to make sense of things and is particularly popular among younger generations as it speaks to their experiences with self-doubt, feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and even depression.
Hip-hop is not just a trend but a black spiritual movement, as expressed by Lauryn Hill. It addresses issues of anti-racism, nationalism, and black liberation. It is more energetic, with stronger lyrics, and for example songs like “Thugz Mansion” and “Change” by Tupac and “Be Free” by J. Cole tackle political and social issues.
Hip-hop is a powerful medium that highlights mixed signals such as joy and sadness and magnifies visceral sensations. It has fostered a sense of unity while also consolidating varying perspectives.
Notable hip-hop artists in this generation include J. Cole, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, Jay-Z, and Nicki Minaj. Additionally, rap serves as a medium for deep self-expression and pure art that combines truth with artistic expression.
Artists like Eminem understand the true meaning of hip-hop. I have been a fan of Eminem since I was a teenager, and he has experienced a lot. He uses his experiences as inspiration for his works.
The feelings expressed in the brilliant song “Mockingbird” often strike a deep chord with listeners who have experienced similar hardships in their own lives.
In this music, Eminem talks about his daughter Hailie, his relationship with her mother Kim, and the challenges he faced as the man of the house, striving to provide a better life for his beloved daughter Hailie.
“Hailie, I know you miss your mom, and I know you miss your dad,
When I’m gone, I’m trying to give you the life that I never had.”
That’s a particularly touching line that takes from Mockingbird. People may say that he exaggerates, but this is his life the life he’s been living.
Suffering and setbacks are inevitable in life, but the reason you’re here is to accept your pain and rise above the struggle. I believe NF is a great and underappreciated rapper. Most people say that he talks about anxiety, and depression, and how his songs can capture your attention. However, I vehemently disagree. His music is not just music; it’s a sensation that enters your heart. The majority of his tunes are upbeat, but melancholic music like “How Could You Leave Me” can make you feel depressed. I saw him in an interview where he mentioned that he was crying a lot while singing about his mother, who passed away from an overdose.
“How could you leave us so unexpectedly?
We waited, we waited.”
This is a very touching line. He talks about how his mother’s failure to fulfill her commitment caused him sorrow, delving into profound emotional anguish. This is far more intense and filled with hurt feelings.
The artistry of hip-hop lies in its ability to resonate with individuals on an emotional, societal, and reflective level. It serves as a powerful medium for fostering connection, empathy, and resilience, presenting a compelling narrative for the human experience. So deep Yeah, that’s the meaning behind hip-hop.
Thoughtlessness can occasionally be interpreted as a sign of loss. Is it a means to prolong our lives of regret? One must forge ahead with whatever one does. You should take any necessary action to heal and move on.
Hip-hop asks everyone, ‘’If that’s for them, why not for you?
BY KALKIDAN NEGASH
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 4 AUGUST 2024
