That boom bap rap

It’s been a while! I’ve been on a bit of a hiatus, as exam season is fast approaching. However, I thought I’d quickly drop an old gem that I’ve been bumping regularly as of late. Disclaimer: this one’s for the old school hip-hop heads – the lovers of boom bap!

ROY WOODS – PANDORA’S BOX

You’re probably wondering why I’m dropping a track from 2013. Well, let’s just say I’m that person who likes to explore an artist’s progression, so I’ll research music from their earlier career. For some reason, it intrigues me to study how the sound of an artist has evolved over time. I stumbled across this rare footage of Roy Woods, whilst watching an interview he did with MONTREALITY. First things first, that boom bap rhythm – dope as hell. I’ve been head bopping for ages and it’s interesting to see him in a different light. It’s clear now that he’s adopted the more mainstream-R&B-route.

ROY WOODS – MONDAY TO MONDAY

I like discussing the transition of how a musician got to where they are now. I used to lose interest in artists who completely switch up their style. Now, it actually makes me respect them more, rather than thinking they’ve changed to become more commercially viable. Sometimes, it’s difficult to let go of the sounds of old school hip-hop or beloved eras like the 90s or 80s funk for instance. Pandora’s box to me is representative of what was and what now is. Though, we as old school hip-hop heads (myself included) may not have fully adjusted to the ‘new age’ sound of hip-hop and R&B it is a good sign of change. I’m learning to step outside of the box, whilst remaining true to my hip-hop roots by recognising those new artists who intend to bring the sound back with their own unique touch. Now let’s talk lyricism. Roy Woods does a good job of maintaining a hard-hitting rap flow throughout with lyrics like “don’t need a pencil my utensil is my mind” or “I’m the realist, I’m the lyrical assassin, here’s your motherf*cking death wish” and “I’d like to climb up the fame ladder in a couple years and see all these fake emcees crying morning tears”. Despite being footage from 2013, it still can be enjoyed today. Yet, there’s definitely a discussion to be had on just how commercially viable rap (or boom bap rap specifically) is anymore…