Hip-Hop artists are talented in their own genre but to classify them as quality singers or musicians would be an over-statement. To rap you don't need good melodies, vocal range or tone. You need to have a catchy tune to rap too and your words need to have a good rhythm and beat.

I am an enormous fan of hip-hop and R&B so it is hard for me to criticize this genre. I prefer a song which includes hip-hop verses and a soul chorus. Once you feel the rhythm of a good rap song it can be quite infectious and addictive. Some of my favourite rappers are Nelly, Chingy, Coolio, Timbaland and Warren G because their music has a playful tone, infectious beat and catchy lyrics.

Hip-hop has never been popular enough in mainstream music but various artists use small amounts of it to make their songs memorable. A good example is Justin Timberlake who has worked closely with Timbaland to create his funky R&B/hip-hop style. He has amazing vocal range which makes his voice very infectious.

Beyonce has the body and voice to give her universal appeal. She has worked with hip-hop artists like Sean Paul who complimented her style. Mariah Carey has always been keen to work with rappers and so has Akon. Rapping is a type of poetry and requires an ability to sing very quickly in rhythm to the beat. Some rappers like JayZ have started their own record companies and become very rich. It proves that they are intelligent as well as street smart.

Before criticizing rappers we must look at some of their achievements. Jermaine Dupri works closely with other rappers and soul singers to give them a popular style. Most rappers are smart enough to work with popular R&B artists to build their profile. Busta Rhymes worked with the Pussycat Dolls to create "Don't Ya" a number one hit world-wide.

Learn more about this author, David Huppatz.
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