People who know nothing about rap music like to say that rap music has no meaning. I’d say that is true of about 90% of what is played on the radio these days, but it was the fun and social messages in rap music that attracted me to it as a young person (which we spoke about in our last episode). These days, there are plenty of great artists who are putting out music with a message, but they just don’t get the exposure that your 50 Cents and Little Waynes get. Some great, idea-oriented artists that I’ve been listening to these days include Brother Ali, Pete Miser, and Lupe Fiasco. I thought I’d put together an all-time top-ten list of my favorite rap songs that don’t have to do with booty, bling, or bb guns. This is by no means a “well thought out” list, so let me know if you think something has been omitted etc. (Note: Links pop up into Youtube videos of the songs)

1. Trees – Dr. Octagon
2. New World Water – Mos Def
3. Stop The Violence - Boogie Down Productions
4. Keep Ya Head Up - 2Pac
5. An Open Letter to NYC – Beastie Boys
6. Minority Report – Jay-Z
7. Tennessee – Arrested Development
8. Black Steel in the Hour of Chaos – Public Enemy
9. U.N.I.T.Y. – Queen Latifah
10. Hip-Hop - Dead Prez