Insight into Rapper Lyrics: Creation or Copy?

There is a common misconception that all rappers come up with their own lyrics, a notion that has been perpetuated by the media and popular culture. However, the reality is more nuanced and complex. While many do write their own lyrics, there are instances where they pay for remakes, adopt beats, or even copy lyrics entirely. This article aims to shed light on the various roles and practices involved in rapper lyrics creation.

Payment for Remakes and Lyrics

Occasionally, rappers opt to pay for remakes or the creation of a new version of a popular song. This practice is not exclusive to rap but is prevalent across the music industry. In other cases, the beats or lyrics of another song are copied, and the rapper claims it as their own, often for financial gain or to save time.

Professional Writers and Collaborations

While many rappers do write their own lyrics, the role of professional songwriters cannot be overlooked. These writers and producers often pre-create songs and sell them to artists, who then reproduce, tweak, or personalize these songs. This collaborative process is common in the music industry, and it applies to artists of all genres, not just rap. The extent to which an artist is involved in the creative process can vary, but the reality is that very few, if any, artists write every line of their songs.

Novelists in the Rapping World

It's important to distinguish between rappers and other performers. An artist who does not write their own lyrics cannot be called a rapper. The essence of being a rapper is the creation and authorship of lyrics that reflect personal experiences, thoughts, and emotions. Other terms like 'singer' or 'reciter of poetry' might better describe those who do not meet the criteria for a rapper.

Estimating Originality Among Rappers

When estimating the proportion of rappers who write their own lyrics, a rough guess is that over 80% do so. This estimate is based on the prevalence of collabs and professional songwriting within the hip-hop and rap community. Kendrick Lamar, for instance, is known for writing and producing his own music, and these types of artists are generally more likely to have a higher level of involvement in the creative process of their music.

Credit and Industry Practices

Despite the common practice of writing songs collaboratively, the credit for songwriting is often a point of contention. Some rappers may not be credited for the work they do, which can be frustrating for both the artist and the songwriter. On the other hand, professional writers also face challenges. They may work on a song for years, only to have it attributed to the artist who bought or collaborated on the track.

Ultimately, the landscape of rap lyrics involves a mix of original creation, professional collaboration, and sometimes, the adaptation of existing works. Understanding these dynamics can provide a clearer picture of the role of rappers and the songwriting process in today's music industry.