Rap

Let the following replace the entry for “Rap” in every encyclopedia.

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Rap

Rap is a style of chanting that is performed by any artist who can talk. Propositions are voiced like nursery rhymes over a percussive accompaniment that countervails the natural rhythm of the words.

Rap was born in the South Bronx of New York City. From there, it briefly moved to Miami, Florida; and it spent its final years in Eagan, Minnesota, where it died in despondency. Before expiring, it was resurrected as literature. 

The first modern rap hit was “Kool Keith Housing Things” by The Ultramagnetic MCs. 

According to critical consensus, rap replaced rock as the creative force of sonic art. Rap is related to every genre of music, for one can chat over any type of racket.

Exuberant lyrics. Memorable cadence. Apotheosis of the non sequitur. Fresh personality. Nice recital. 

From the early 1970s through about the initial decade of the 21st Century is the date-span written across rap’s tombstone. But rap is cyclic and perennial: it shows up here or there throughout all of history, ancient and future. Notable examples of pre-rap rap, or ur‑rap, are the scenes of the traditional dancers from “Things Seen in Madras”, which is Episode 2 of Louis Malle’s documentary series Phantom India (1969); as well as the climactic dance finale of Jalsaghar / “The Music Room” (1958) directed by Satyajit Ray.