Dee-1, the Christian rap artist, has recently expressed thought-provoking statements that prompt deep reflection. While opinions on the matter may vary, his argument invites contemplation on the authentic meaning of a “Legend.”
Redefining Legends
In the realm of hip-hop, artists often find themselves categorized into different classes, with distinctions varying across publications and individuals. One of the highest echelons of hip-hop artistry is achieving “legend” status. Recently, Dee-1 has been making the argument that specific artists should be stripped of the legend title, citing a compelling reason. According to the artist,
“We need to take the legend status from a lot of the people who we call legends in Hip-Hop, and that’s going to hurt their ego, but that’s going to help our community.”
It’s crucial to note that this conversation originated from a question posed to Dee-1 in a recent interview on Art of Dialogue. When directly asked if he believes, as suggested by another public figure, that N.W.A. ushered in an age of destruction, Dee-1, despite not being around during N.W.A.’s debut, explained that he doesn’t know who exactly initiated what is termed as “destruction.” Nevertheless, he stands steadfast in his beliefs. Artists that glorify violence were identified by Dee-1 as contributors.
Dee-1 On A Paradigm Shift
With such a stance, one is led to ponder the rationale behind such a statement. Dee-1 is unequivocal about the “why.” According to the artist, what one contributes holds greater significance than the duration of their contributions or when they started contributing. The true measure of a legend, in his view, lies in contributing to the growth, progress, and upward mobility of the discipline for which they are labeled.
N.W.A’s Legacy
The group the interviewer uses as a model is none other than N.W.A, an early predecessor in the rap game. N.W.A (N****** With Attitude) consisted of members Ice Cube, Easy E, Dr. Dre, Arabian Prince, MC Ren, and later the DOC and DJ Yella.
The rap supergroup was formed in 1987 by Easy E. According to Britannica, Easy E utilized drug money to finance his entrepreneurial ventures. One of his ventures included a record label, where he later recruited Dr. Dre. The group’s inaugural single was released in 1987. Notably, Ice Cube and MC Ren are recognized for writing most of the songs, including the infamous “Straight Out of Compton.”
Even in earlier years, their work was notorious for what many perceived as “inciting violence.”
Dee-1’s Controversial Take
However, the group is widely regarded by many in the community as legends. But why? They are considered pioneers of a specific category of Hip Hop known as “Gangsta Rap.” Herein lies the crux of the argument. According to Dee-1, what N.W.A has contributed has led to a regression rather than a progression of the community it served. As Dee-1 notes, “Once we acknowledge what you have contributed to the genre, your whole career, and if we acknowledge that you’ve contributed a bunch of negativity, a bunch of violence, a bunch of disrespect of women, what do we do?” In his perspective, stripping away their legendary status is warranted. Does he have a point?
The Subjectivity Of Perspective
The perspective remains subjective, contingent on one’s definition of a legend. It hinges on whether being a pioneer, regardless of the nature of what is pioneered, is sufficient for the title. Alternatively, should the value of the contribution be a crucial factor? Given that Dee-1 is recognized as a Christian rapper with specific values, logically, his perspective aligns with his beliefs. However, this may not be in harmony with the perspectives of others with different beliefs.
Reflecting On Dee-1’s Position
Nonetheless, it is a valid argument with substantial merit, deserving reflection and intellectual discourse. It is certain that this won’t be the last time the argument is raised, and full concession may never be reached. If the objective is community improvement, considering hip-hop’s influence, this is a discussion worth having. FMHipHop acknowledges that our readers are avid hip-hop enthusiasts. As lovers of hip-hop, what is your perspective on this argument? Which side of the debate do you find yourself standing on?
