Freestyle or Prepared: How to Flourish as a Rapper
When it comes to rapping, many people believe that freestyling is a prerequisite. However, the truth is that not every rapper has to freestyle. While freestyling can showcase a rapper's skills and creativity, it is just one tool in the rap arsenal. Many successful rappers prefer to write and produce their music in advance rather than improvising on the spot.
Writing Versus Improvisation
Freestyling involves coming up with lyrics on the spot, which can be a challenging and impressive skill. However, it is not the only path to success in the rap industry. Many rappers take the time to craft their verses, ensuring that their lyrics are well-thought-out and align with their overall artistic vision. Skillful lyric writing can be just as effective as freestyle in making a strong impact on listeners.
Why Both are Valuable
Freestyling can certainly be a fun and engaging way to perform when you're with friends. It allows you to think on your feet and adapt to unexpected situations. But it's also important to recognize its practical uses. For instance, when you're in a live performance or a recording session, the ability to freestyle can be crucial. In the words of the author, the moment your MC kicks in with a challenge, you need to step up your game. Being able to freestyle can save you from embarrassment and show your versatility as a rapper.
Moreover, freestyling can enhance your songwriting. The tips and techniques you learn through freestyling can be applied to your prepared lyrics, making them even more dynamic and engaging. As the author suggests, if you use the provided tips, you can start to see the changes for yourself.
The Evolution of Rap
In the early days of rap, the focus was heavily on freestyle. Slick-talking MCs would use freestyle to keep the crowd engaged and to stay in the spotlight during DJ sets. Names like Slick Rick, Slick Rick, and Busy Bee Doug E FRESH were known for their impressive freestyling skills. However, as the rap community grew, it became more acceptable and even expected for rappers to use prewritten material when called to freestyle. This shift in the rap culture paved the way for a more diverse approach to the art form.
Today, while freestyling is still considered a valuable skill, it is not the only path to success. Some of the best rappers in the industry, such as Eminem and Tech N9ne, have mastered the art of lyric writing. Their prepared and planned lyrics are often lauded for their creativity and depth, making their performances and recordings just as memorable as those of skilled freestylers.
So, freestyle or prepared, both are essential for a well-rounded rapper. The choice between the two depends on the situation and the rapper's personal style. The key is to develop skills in both areas and to use them effectively to showcase your unique talents.