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FromTheSlumb

Is rap becoming the new rock-n-roll right in front of our eyes? This newly adapt- ed sense of fashion consist- ing of tights, spikes, and multiple pieces of leather, I think it may be safe to say it could be.

Even Kanye West made a statement in his BBC interview with Zane Lowe, saying that rap is indeed the new rock-n-roll, and that he is the biggest rock star of them all.

It is even more believable when you see artists switching from baggy camouflage short and hoodies, too tight leather pants and long t- shirt.

The energy seems to be changing also at the hip-hop concerts now. For example, consider a Wiz Khalifa or Travis Scott concert. You will see plenty of strobe lights, jumping into the crowd, throwing the micro- phone stand, all of which are actions that would hap– pen at a rock show in the late 70s rather than a hip- hop show.

At an old hip-hop show there would maybe have a big screen in the back- ground playing a music video or acting as a big camera. Even beats are be- coming next level type instrumentals involving heavy bass and 808’s, all types of sounds such as horns, pianos, and guitars.

If this is in fact the truth, the next question is will this be a bad thing? Could this be the death of Hip-Hop?

I probably would not go as far to say that, simply because we have a few artists who refuse to join the movement described above. People such as Big Krit, Joey Bada**, Bishop Nehru, Action Bronson and a hand- ful of others are keeping the old school vibe alive.

I’m not sure if this is just a phase in hip-hop that will eventually passover or if this is just another step forward towards change. The only thing we can do, as fans are wait in anticipation to see what happens.

Kendrell Turner is a junior mass communication major from Alexandria. Visit fromtheslub.com for more of Turner’s commentary on music.