Violence in rap music

            
             The link between rap lyrics and violence is overvalued. The claim that violent lyrics cause violent behavior is neither convincing nor conclusive (United States Senate). Hip-hop is a distinct form of art and expression, just as any other type of music. The violent lyrics made by rappers are a reflection of the violence that takes place in many urban American cities. It is simply unjust to blame rap music lyrics for social violence.
             The condemnation of rap music is greatly due to misperception. It is often misunderstood because of generational and cultural differences. Rap music is an art form that reflects life. Gangsta rap emerged in the late 80's when crack and gangs ruled the West Coast. The origins of this new style came from Los Angeles, Long Beach, Compton, and Oakland. A form of music that mimicked the gangs and violence on the streets was bound to rise. The real problems are outside the music, not within (Leland).
             The problem of urban violence is much bigger than rap. Rappers such as Tupac, Snoop Dogg, and Dr. Dre, who have been publicly criticized for their lyrics, grew up in the ghetto, and their words reflect what they have lived through. It is what is often referred to as the "realness" of hip-hop. Listeners can listen and know they are real, and that the rapper has truly experienced all of the things he discusses. The lyrics made by these rappers are not creating the worlds of violence and drugs; it is the reality of the streets. It was their lives, and the realities that they had to face everyday. In an article from Newsweek by John Leland, he states, "These performers should be classic American success stories: young men of humble origins who through sheer talent and hard work rose to the mansion on the hill" (Leland).
             Snoop Dogg grew up in Long Beach, 25 miles south of L.A. It is the city where Snoop joined the Golgotha Trinity Baptist youth choir and, later, the Insane Crips (Leland).