MU^SIC

Craftsmanship

w/

Yasiin Bey (Mos Def)

Yasiin Bey (Mos Def)

     Much concern about the state of Hip-Hop has been brought about by audiences and artists alike, and though the topic of discussion can plunge into layers of debates, much of which are insightful and worth exploration, I much rather devote this time towards the simple appreciation of "craftsmanship." With so much push and pull around what determines a successful hip-hop track or album, whether its deep lyricism, creative punchlines, blazing beats, or a bopping hook, there is no avoiding the link to the art of crafting. In every artistic field, crafting is the watering and sunlight after the planting of the seed - the growth. 

     This crucial art, in my opinion, has gone on to be the abandoned home in today's hip-hop music. Most audiences have lost sense, and therefore appreciation for such skill in many of today's songs. Now, the idea of successful craftsmanship if certainly subjective, however, there are a handful of artists in hip-hop, who devote themselves to mastering such an art. 

     Bringing me to (call it bias if you will) my favorite MC, Yasiin Bey (formerly known as Mos Def). Clearly known as an icon in his field, Bey is one of the most genuine and devoted artist to hip-hop. From educating himself on the history of the culture, to continually pushing its boundaries towards evolution, Bey is one of the most respected artists in the genre. 

     In  an attempt to re-awaken an awareness of how masterful rap can be (contrary to what many have come to assume), I wish to share with you one of my favorite crafted tracks by Yasiin Bey. At first, the soothing beat laid down by the talented producer Ski Beats can have you "feel good" nodding past the lyrics, however, on a deeper listen, the lyrical craft not only becomes more apparent, but also brings the song to an entire different platform. 

     I believe that rap music should be analyzed much like one would a play or screenplay. In my experience, watching a play being performed, and reading the actual physical manuscript bring about two different experiences. Such an example lies below. While listening to the track, "Taxi," produced by Ski-Beats, and reading along with the lyrics by Yasiin Bey, attempt to not only find the craftsmanship, but also how it propels the message in the words. Try to see how it takes the shape of the contradictions and overall cycle of "relationships."  



"Taxi"

Produced by Ski Beats

Lyrics Yasiin Bey

"En guarde,

Bang Bang it's a war of the hearts

We could either make love 

           or 

We could spar

Either way we hollerin' out

Good Lord!

Either one don't solve the problem at all

Spend the first half tryna get it on

        Spent the next half tryna get gone

What's wrong?

“Nothing' at all”

Watch your head girl that lie is too tall

Don't go, 

     Ef'it, 

Do what you want

I'm out the front door

I'm waiting on your call

Forgot it took place

Remembering it all

Feel like forever,

The moment so small

It's X-Large

Your eyes soft

Your kiss warm

Your cold heart

Fresh frost, 

Tried to melt it off

Bags packed at home looking lost

Tripping out ending up where you start

Carousel at the merry-go park

Pretty horse, let me off

Shed a tear, but I'm too tired to mourn

I'll do it tomorrow

When your gone and you can't see me at all

Boulevard, 

Love and Hate, 

We at the cross

Buckle up, rough course,

Taxi....."

****

LOVE LINE REMIX

Lyrics: Self

Mixing: Mr. Capers

Instrumental: Exile

We claim no legal rights

 towards the instrumental used in this remix.

*****

SEAPORT

Lyrics: Self & Mr. Capers

Producer: Mr. Capers

*****