Unappreciated Rappers

I'm gonna take this time to welcome myself to Blogger... Never really been into blogs, so perhaps it's time I get down with one. It's my first week back in New Orleans after a well celebrated break in my hometown Evanston, Il. I got a lot ahead of me in this coming semester at Loyola New Orleans. Been hooking up with some different artists and prospects look good.

I've been on a Hip-hop binge lately. In an attempt to discover more Hip-hop rarities I came across this list. It's a countdown of whats considered by Henry Adaso, About.com author, "The 10 Most Unappreciated Rappers." Some I agree with, some I don't. Heres a few that stood out to me.

Coming in it at #6 is Black Thought of the Roots.

I couldn't agree more with Black Thought making the list. But, only at #6? In my opinion he belongs at least in the top 3 for the lack of appreciation which he gets. Listen as he tears it up on the Roots track "Web" off their album Tipping Point.

Coming in at #5 is MC Wise Intelligent, solo artists and member of the Poor Righteous Teachers.

Before reading the list I had never heard of Wise Intelligent. I've been missing out! The guys got great delivery and outstanding lyrical content. Check him out on his track "Passing Tha Time" in which he explains "What took so long for me to come out with a record, Me clearing my mind and my heart out, Don't put any old rhymes out, Hip-hop is still art to some folks."

Coming in at #3 is New York City MC Sean Price. 

Listening through his music I was not all that impressed. Sure he may be under-appreciated, but I wouldn't of placed him so high on the list. I will give him credit for getting his catchy track "Hearing Aid featuring Chaundon" stuck in my head in which he demands "Listen to me!". Cheers to Chaundon for his mentioning of 190 proof Diesel. 

So who's #1? Drum roll please... Coming in at #1 Most Unappreciated Rapper is AZ.

A close friend and collaborator of Nas, as well as a member of the former hip-hop group the Firm, AZ's name has been floating around for quite awhile. But, certainly without an appropriate amount of deserved respect. Perhaps because he's seen as being in Nas shadow, or maybe because the Firm never fully rose to the super group level which was expected of them. Either way, the guys got talent and I have no problem agreeing that he belongs at the top of top on this list. Check out these three tracks, each off his debut studio album Do or Die: Uncut Raw, Ho Happy Jackie, and Rather Unique. 

It's no surprise that in the industry of Hip-hop so many artists are under-appreciated. It truly is a dog eat dog scene, and those without the right kind of attention often don't get the success they deserve. But, that's what makes it all more exciting when you find those special gems in the rough.