Rap
Rapping is a style of vocal delivery that is key to rap and hip-hop music. A rapper, also known as an MC, must be able to rap in time with a steady beat.
Rap focuses on rhythm as opposed to melody or harmony. A rapper will improvise, or 'freestyle', lyrics in time with an accompaniment.
Current rappers include:
- Jay-Z
- Kanye West
- Nicki Minaj
- Will.i.am
- Eminem
Rap originated in the Bronx in New York in the 1970s. Its vocal roots lie in a Jamaican technique called 鈥榯oasting鈥 - a cross between chanting and talking performed by Jamaican MCs.
Listen to the clip below of UK rapper Rodney P. The influence of Jamaican music can be heard in the offbeat Reggae rhythm and instruments.
The Nice Up performed by Rodney P
Watch Soweto Kinch rapping, and listen to how he interacts with his band. Notice the crescendo, cymbal crash, drum fill and bass riff.
Soweto Kinch rapping