Rap music has always been a genre that thrives on creativity, innovation, and the raw expression of emotions. Over the years, it has produced some of the most talented and influential artists in the music industry. However, by 2019, many critics and fans began to argue that rap music had taken a downward turn, becoming less about talent and more about trends, image, and commercial success. In this article, we will explore the reasons why music in 2019 rap was often perceived as requiring little to no talent, and what this shift means for the genre as a whole.
The Rise of the Mumble Rap Phenomenon
One of the most significant changes in rap music leading up to 2019 was the rise of “mumble rap.” Mumble rap is a subgenre where artists often deliver their lyrics in a slurred, incoherent manner, making it difficult to understand what they are saying. This style became immensely popular, particularly among younger audiences. However, the lack of clear articulation and lyrical complexity led many to question the talent involved in creating such music.
Mumble rap’s popularity was driven by catchy beats and hooks rather than the lyrical prowess that rap was once known for. In previous decades, rap artists were celebrated for their wordplay, storytelling, and ability to convey complex emotions and social commentary through their lyrics. Mumble rap, on the other hand, prioritized a vibe or mood over substance, leading to criticisms that it lacked the skill and effort traditionally associated with rap music.
The Decline of Lyrical Content
Lyrical content has always been a cornerstone of rap music. In the early days of the genre, rappers like Rakim, Nas, and Tupac Shakur were revered for their intricate lyrics, which often tackled social issues, personal struggles, and philosophical themes. By 2019, however, much of mainstream rap had shifted away from meaningful content.
Many of the most popular rap songs of 2019 featured lyrics that were repetitive, shallow, and focused on materialism, drug use, and partying. While these themes have always been present in rap, the balance had shifted, with less emphasis on storytelling and more on creating songs that were easy to consume and market. This shift led to the perception that rap music in 2019 required less talent, as the emphasis on lyrical depth and creativity diminished.
The Dominance of Autotune and Production
In 2019, the use of autotune and heavy production became almost ubiquitous in rap music. While autotune and production techniques can enhance a song, they were often used to mask a lack of vocal ability or to create a more polished, commercial sound. This reliance on technology led to criticisms that rap music was becoming more about the production than the artist’s raw talent.
Autotune, in particular, was heavily criticized for removing the natural imperfections in a rapper’s voice, making every artist sound similar and robotic. While autotune can be used creatively, in many cases, it was overused, leading to a homogenization of the rap sound. This trend further fueled the argument that rap music in 2019 required less talent, as the technology was doing much of the work.
The Influence of Social Media and Viral Trends
Social media played a significant role in shaping the rap music of 2019. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter allowed artists to reach massive audiences quickly, but they also created an environment where trends and viral moments often overshadowed musical talent. Many rappers found success by capitalizing on viral challenges, memes, and controversial behavior, rather than through their music alone.
This shift in how rap music was promoted and consumed led to a focus on image and brand over musical ability. Artists were often more concerned with their online persona and how they could go viral than with honing their craft. As a result, the music itself sometimes felt secondary, leading to the perception that rap in 2019 required less talent.
The Commercialization of Rap
Rap music has always had a complex relationship with commercialization. In 2019, the genre was more commercially successful than ever, with rap artists dominating the charts and streaming platforms. However, this commercial success came at a cost. Many artists were pressured to produce music that would sell, leading to a formulaic approach to songwriting.
Record labels and producers often dictated the sound and direction of an artist’s music, prioritizing songs that were likely to be hits over those that showcased artistic talent. This focus on commercial appeal over creativity led to the production of music that was often seen as generic and lacking in originality, further contributing to the idea that rap in 2019 required less talent.
The Impact of Streaming on Music Quality
The rise of streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube changed the way music was consumed and created. In 2019, the music industry was driven by streams, with artists releasing singles and albums more frequently to keep up with the demand for new content. This shift towards quantity over quality had a noticeable impact on the music being produced.
To maintain relevance, many rappers released music at a rapid pace, often sacrificing creativity and craftsmanship for the sake of staying in the public eye. The constant pressure to produce new content led to the creation of music that was rushed and less polished, further contributing to the idea that rap in 2019 required less talent.
The Role of Ghostwriters
Another factor that contributed to the perception that rap music in 2019 required less talent was the increasing use of ghostwriters. Ghostwriting has always been a part of the music industry, but in rap, where authenticity and personal expression are highly valued, the use of ghostwriters is often viewed negatively.
In 2019, it became more common for rappers to rely on ghostwriters to create their lyrics. While this practice allowed artists to produce music more quickly and stay relevant in a fast-paced industry, it also led to criticisms that they were not truly the creators of their own music. This reliance on others to write lyrics diminished the perceived talent of the artist, as the skill of writing clever, impactful lyrics was outsourced.
The Loss of Innovation in Rap
Innovation has always been a driving force in rap music, with each generation of artists pushing the boundaries of what the genre could be. However, by 2019, many critics argued that rap had become stagnant, with artists recycling the same sounds, themes, and flows. The lack of innovation was seen as a sign that the genre was running out of ideas and that artists were no longer pushing themselves creatively.
This perceived loss of innovation led to the belief that rap music was becoming formulaic and uninspired, with artists relying on tried-and-true methods rather than taking risks. As a result, the music was often viewed as requiring less talent, as the creative spark that once defined rap was dimming.
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Conclusion
The perception that rap music in 2019 required no talent was fueled by a combination of factors, including the rise of mumble rap, the decline of lyrical content, the dominance of autotune and production, the influence of social media, and the commercialization of the genre. While these trends contributed to a shift in how rap music was created and consumed, it is important to recognize that talent still existed within the genre.
However, the changes in the industry and the pressures to produce commercially successful music often led to a product that was seen as lacking in creativity, originality, and skill. As rap continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether the genre will return to its roots of lyrical mastery and innovation or continue down the path of commercialization and trend-driven music.
