I realize this one will
ruffle quite a few feathers, but the truth must be told. Here is a little rule
that predates all of us: “music” is created and played by “musicians.” This is
not a list of “overrated poets” or “overrated rhymers” or “overrated
lyricists.” I have no doubt that many fine lyrics exist somewhere in the genre.
But the genre simply doesn’t require musicians. Just like CCM from the 1980s
on, musicians have been rendered unnecessary by this genre. All you need is the
right lyrics, some computer-generated beat, and (as usual for overrated acts)
the right dress code and “style.” This is not the same as “music.” It honestly
doesn’t matter how many journalists and critics pile validation on the genre—if
you’re not a jammer, you’re overrated in the category of “music.” Period. Nor
is this a racial thing, for you lovers of the Straw Man Theory: from Louis Armstrong to Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Ray
Charles, Jimi Hendrix, the Campbell Brothers and even today’s Robert Randolph,
African-Americans have contributed mightily (if not outright shaped) American
music for the past century or more. But rap and hip-hop simply aren’t music—it
doesn’t require musicians or musicianship in order to make it, and the emphasis
is on style rather than musical substance. It's an emblem; a virtue-signal; a "dog whistle" to show others how "relevant" you are .....it's not music. I would rather listen to that never-ending
accordion solo in Tejano music than hip-hop—at least actual musicians are
involved.
Overratedness Rating: 4/5 John Mayers
Overratedness Rating: 4/5 John Mayers
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