The sites, social networks, and talk around town, any town for that matter, have been engulfed in the drama filled reality show, “Love & Hip-Hop Atlanta.” So many raw topics are being brought to the forefront. Many find it degrading, but many more, entertaining.
You don’t have to watch the show to be able to give a complete rundown of what goes on weekly. So many people discuss it, you couldn’t avoid it if you tried. The same was true when the show was in New York. Viewers saw money, power, sex, lies, and lots of scandal, centered comfortably around the world of music. Is there any responsibility that Hip-Hop should bear?
The entertainment world is just that – for entertainment, but when it’s portrayed, exaggerated, or just plain extra on television, sources have to be pinpointed.
It isn’t as though rap is the only genre of music that touches on the many vices of the world. But it is also no secret that Hip-Hop stays in the spotlight for lacking kid-friendly verses, and isn’t exactly the top choice when it comes to uplifting women.
It could be that the overt raunchiness that’s long been celebrated on the airwaves and stages has made it to television. Entities should be appreciated for the differences they offer. Urban music has a place in the world. It’s not about changing content completely – after all that’s what makes music what it is. But it is about understanding the pros and cons of what’s put out. This could possibly be a spin-off from the negative parts.
We haven’t been blessed with a big urban love song from a rap artist in a while. It seems as though the lyrics go one way, and TV seems to intentionally follow. There’s a saying that you get more of what you put out…
In that case, Hip-Hop could use some more love.
Tawni Fears is a freelance writer and contributor to AllHipHop.com. Follow her on Twitter (@brwnsugaT).