The adjective, “blue,” in this case, serves an important role in characterizing the constant threat of violence while maintaining the lyrics’ approachability. Instead of merely stating the activity he engaged in against enemies he encountered in Queensbridge, such as gunfire or intimidation, Havoc lets the listener imagine any violent scenario through the vague assertion “givin’ crews the blues.” This phrase implies that something grim is taking place, though this bleakness is covered lyrically by a more gentle expression. During the first verse, Havoc effortlessly raps, “I choose givin’ crews the blues” i. Havoc jumps straight into describing his actions against any opposition on the opening track “The Start of Your Ending (41st side),” using a simple and gloomy euphemism to accomplish this. Mobb Deep’s implementation of the euphemism throughout The Infamous typifies their quick-witted mindset as they take the listener on a journey through their perilous surroundings. This rhetorical decision-making by both artists allows the reader to understand how violence was seen as “the norm” in their community. On the majority of the tracks off The Infamous, Havoc and Prodigy detail their involvement with guns, law enforcement, and enemies by replacing clear-cut violent expressions with vague descriptions of their brutal mindset. Specifically, they use the euphemism to convey the constant danger that confronts them within Queensbridge. On this project, the beat selection along with the vivid street-life rhymes from Havoc and Prodigy cleverly paint the terror both artists experienced in the Queensbridge projects.Īlthough the content of Mobb Deep’s lyrics are grim and straightforward with the audience about the chaos within this environment, their delivery of this information is often indirect, layered with phrases that are “easier” on the listener’s ear. If someone were to choose an album that encapsulates the ruggedness during this time, Mobb Deep’s The Infamous would almost certainly be at the top of the list for many fans of the East Coast hip hop style. A certain level of toughness and honesty is expected from the artist as one listens to this music. These albums are seen as landmarks in the East Coast rap scene due to their grimy and raw production style and evocative lyrics, giving life to a relatively new and creative musical expression. New York hip-hop is currently experiencing a massive boom in popularity and attention through albums such as Illmaticand Ready to Die.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |