I like to compare the rap/hip-hop game to the NBA because i think the comparisons are very similar. The thread starter did have a point in that just because you were an originator doesn't mean you’re nicer than everyone. but, the most talented innovators deserve honors and mentions above all they had to put a new genre on the map, be considered nice in said genre, and had no template to work with no one else can say they did that.
(Hip hop in the early 80's = NBA pre-1970s) - The innovators, originators, and first pioneers of basketball (rap) where dabbling in a new game (genre). While the participants in this era can be transported to any other era and still play (rap against or with) anyone in any other era, they aren't as talented as the later generations. Still they deserve respect for carving out a space for everyone to follow. This is a feat that no one can take from them and no other generation can claim.
(Hip hop in the late 80s-early 1990s = NBA 1978-1986)- The game gets refined and the balance between talent and technique (flow/ lyricism/ and good ass beats) is nearing. The best from this era have more talent than the previous generation. These players (rappers and producers) like Dr. Dre and the whole west coast are typically the guys who brought the craft to a true mainstream level and brought the game into the hearts and homes of millions.
(Hip hop in the mid-late 90s = NBA 1987-1998)- Era with the most talent, competition, and most of the typical GOAT candidates participated during this time. Rappers (players) from the previous era participate in this era as well. Jordan, magic, bird= jay, 2pac, nas, BIG, you could say early Eminem as well. While those guys dominated the whole league, the (rap game) was filled with talent: DMX, the fugees, missy Elliot, Pun, etc. this is the perfect era for talent/ creative artist freedom/ impact/ etc. Most of all, because of these guys the genre of rap has finally seen enough talent, technique, and exposure to produce a diverse and balanced hip-hop landscape. By theory, any newcomer who comes into the game should borrow from this era and become the most gifted and successful MC's but, that is apparently not the case.
(hip hop in the early 2000's = NBA 1999-2005) - the game slowed down, a lot of busts, a few moments of greatness. But, most artist originating from this era usually don’t measure up to the previous gen. Standouts include Eminem who commercially shines during this time. you got your d-wades, LeBron’s and mello's (Kanye, luda, lupe) guys who're technically better than most of the early guys and have excelled at their craft but, their resumes at this point need time to put their accomplishments into proper context
(Note: By my metaphor, Weezy is a dude from the late 90's generation but, he obviously blows up during this time. i guess he's like that bench player who became a star player after he finally got to lead his team. whats crazy is that by years in the industry, Wayne is ancient.)
(Hip hop now = NBA 2005- NBA now) - too many rappers drawing LeBron comparisons lol. The rappers now may have talent but, have to prove to us they can have an impact. we got Wale, Cole, B.O.B, etc. and they show promise. but, the rest is to be seen. the previous generation also participates in this era and seems to be outshining any newcomers. The rap game is too crazy to even do your own thing now. too bad, should’ve been a rapper in the 90s lol.
