Are Freestyle Raps Considered Rap Songs?

In the realm of hip hop and rap, the concept of freestyle is a term that often evokes a sense of live expression and improvisation. It is the art form where artists create and deliver rhymes in real-time, without any set beats or predetermined lyrics. However, the question of whether freestyle raps should be considered 'rap songs' or stand-alone works often sparks debates within the music industry and among enthusiasts.

Technically Speaking: What Are Freestyle Raps?

Freestyle raps, by definition, do not conform to traditional song structures such as those found in what is generally considered a 'rap song.' A typical rap song has a chorus, a refrain, and a set of verses that align with a fixed beat. Conversely, freestyle raps consist mostly of bars, which are lines of rhyming words delivered in rapid succession. This lack of predefined structure means that the creative process is more fluid and spontaneous.

As an artist who has occasionally found themselves guilty of being a 'lazy chorus writer,' the absence of a chorus or refrain in freestyle performances is a hallmark of this genre. Instead, the focus is solely on the delivery and quality of the individual bars, which together form the essence of the performance.

Hook or Chorus: Essential Components in Rap Songs

To better understand the role of freestyles in the broader context of rap music, it is instructive to consider the concept of a 'hook' or 'chorus' as espoused by Pat Pattison from Berklee College of Music. In traditional music, the hook serves as a memorable and catchy phrase that ties the song together, often repeated multiple times.

In the realm of rap, the hook is likened to a 'bride,' symbolizing the central, unifying element that forms the emotional core of the song. However, freestyle raps often lack this unifying structure. Instead, they rely on the raw, unbridled creativity and spontaneity of the individual performer. The absence of a chorus or refrain might lead some to question whether freestyle raps can be classified as 'rap songs' in the conventional sense.

Explaining Freestyle Raps to Non-Rap Listeners

When explaining freestyle raps to non-rap listeners, one might need to shed light on the improvisational aspect of this art form. Many freestyles are precisely that: improvised musical performances. The ability to create cohesive and engaging content on the spot is a testament to the artist's skill and creativity.

One could describe freestyle raps as 'on-the-spot songwriting.' When an artist stands on stage or in the studio and delivers freestyles, they are essentially crafting a song as it is being performed. This live aspect adds an extra layer of authenticity and engagement that might not be present in pre-recorded rap songs.

Conclusion: The Place of Freestyle Raps in Rap Music

While freestyle raps may lack some of the structural elements traditionally associated with 'rap songs,' they definitely hold their own place in the rap music ecosystem. The absence of a chorus or refrain is not a hindrance to their effectiveness as a form of artistic expression. Instead, it is a testament to the raw creativity and live performance aspect that defines freestyle raps.

For those curious about the nature of freestyle raps, it is worth noting that many of the greatest rap performances in history have included freestyle segments. These impromptu displays of skill and creativity often lead to classics that have stood the test of time and continue to inspire new generations of artists.