As rappers and their handlers continue to limit press access, it will undoubtedly become increasingly difficult to get emcees to talk about some subjects without fear of fan backlash or diminishing endorsement opportunities. We’ve already seen Rick Ross’ Reebok money threatened by his date rape-related comments on “U.O.E.N.O.” Meanwhile, the YMCMB camp can’t positively spin their own conflicting reports fast enough to cover Lil Wayne’s near-death experience in what most of us think was a seizure induced by a codeine bender.
Luckily, some rappers are still talking. And they’re happy to offer more than just politically correct sound bytes. The 2013 edition of The Taboo Series features more direct quotes from artists as well as the usual statistics to back up our sometimes-controversial opinions. Whether we’re talking about rappers in dresses (excuse us…kilts), Hip Hop’s seemingly phony CB4 mentality or emcees’ mental health issues, there are no shortage of controversial topics in Hip Hop.
Get Your Mind Right: Hip Hop & Mental Illness
“I grew up wishing my life could be like the Cosby’s / I go that extra mile to escape this ghetto monotony / See how this vicious cycle could fuck with you psychologically / Best cooperate with the state or become they property…” –Freddie Gibbs, “187 Proof.”
Hip Hop is about struggle. Many of the dopest emcees have been up against immeasurable odds, growing up in deplorable environments filled with neglect and physical, sexual and emotional abuse. These factors have sometimes affected their overall mental health. A soundproof booth and a mic, while cathartic, can go but so far in releasing that kind of hurt and anger. Sometimes a leather couch, a doctor that doesn’t wear a white jacket and a small pill can help ease the pain Mobb Deep drank away on The Infamous.