Hip-Hop in the NY Times
Ain't it crazy that the best hip-hop criticism in the last few years has come through the NY Times? Yes, the NY Times. And it's mostly thanks to Kelefa Sanneh's sharp writing.
I wait on his new articles like I do albums. This Sunday didn't disappoint as he broke down Houston's exciting new music scene. Sanneh name checks all the big players (Geto Boys, UGK, Lil Flip, Devin the Dude) and the come-ups (Slim Thug, Mike Jones, Paul Wall). However, what's really cool is that he lays significant ink down explaining DJ Screw's pioneer role in Houston's new sound, and even links to Matt Sonzala's incredible blog about Houston hip-hop. Homebody is thorough.
Sanneh seems like a life long fan of the subject, which is what a well researched article is supposed to make you think. Props to him. His work at the Times is fresh air in hip-hop media right now.
Posted by SOHH Hashim at April 17, 2005 11:17 PM
I totally agree. Sanneh did a great job of profiling the scene and explaing (to us yankees) the depth behind the slow syrupy flow.
My favorite quote from the story was when Lil' Keke, explaining his local rap fame, says, " I wasn't living like a rapper, but I was living like a doctor." Not a bad hustle, huh?
Posted by: jesse at April 18, 2005 1:31 AM
I didn't see the article, but I am so happy that the south is getting its long over due shine. The Dutty South is dominating the rap game right now and it doesn't seem like thats going to change any time soon. The New South is about to hit the scene and they really coming with that fiya (Boyz-n-da-Hood, Young Jeezy, Lil Boosie & Lil Weebie, Jody Breeze, Lil Wayne, Tango, Lil Scrappy, Trillville, Pitbull, Mike Jones, Slim Thug, Paul Wall, BossHog Outlawz....etc)
Now po ya something good, roll ya window down and grip some wood and glide slow!
From Mississippi to Washington DC !
Posted by: King Kong at April 18, 2005 11:12 AM
