Background: Kendrick Lamar (1987–) has won 13 Grammy Awards, two American Music Awards, five Billboard Music Awards, a Brit Award, 11 MTV Video Music Awards, a Pulitzer Prize, and an Academy Award nomination. In 2015, he received the California State Senate's Generational Icon award. Three of his studio albums have been listed in 's "The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time (2020)."
Read aloud to yourself this quote by Lamar: “It took a long time for people to embrace us (rappers)—people outside of our community, our culture—to see this not just as vocal lyrics, but to see that this is really pain, this is really hurt, this is really true stories of our lives on wax.” Ask: Why do you think people like different genres of music? Why do you think some people, after 50 years, still don’t view rap as real music?
Writing Prompt: Think about three people you know who are different in some way. They can be anyone. Adults, children, older adults, teachers, etc..... Some differences can be based on things like race, age, gender, religion, or ability. Write down who they are, and how they are different. After you write about the three people, how do think they would answer both questions below? What would you base your answer on? What is your favorite genre/kind of music?
What do you think that person likes rap music? kid form 10 lined paragraph
I know three people who are different in various ways. The first person is my neighbor, who is an elderly woman in her 70s. The second person is my friend who is a teenager with a disability. And the third person is my teacher who is a middle-aged man. These three individuals come from different backgrounds, have different life experiences, and are at different stages in their lives.
If I were to ask them why they think people like different genres of music, I think my elderly neighbor might say that she grew up listening to a different type of music than what is popular today, so she prefers more classical or oldies music. My friend with a disability might say that music helps them express themselves and connect with others, so they don't focus on genres but instead listen to music that resonates with them emotionally. My teacher might say that people's music preferences are shaped by their upbringing, culture, and personal experiences.
If I were to ask them why some people still don't view rap as real music after 50 years, I think my elderly neighbor might say that she struggles to understand the lyrics and the rhythm of rap music, as it is different from what she is used to. My friend with a disability might say that they appreciate rap music for its raw emotion and storytelling, and they believe that music should be inclusive of all genres. My teacher might say that there is still a stigma surrounding rap music in some circles, and that it takes time for people to open their minds to new forms of expression and creativity.
Based on these assumptions, I believe that my elderly neighbor might not be a fan of rap music, as she prefers more traditional genres. My friend with a disability might enjoy rap music for its honesty and authenticity, as it allows them to relate to the struggles and triumphs of the artists. And my teacher might appreciate the artistry and social commentary in rap music, as he values creativity and critical thinking.
As for my favorite genre/kind of music, I enjoy listening to a variety of genres, including pop, rock, and hip-hop. I appreciate music that tells a story, evokes emotion, and inspires me to think and feel deeply. I believe that music is a universal language that can unite people from all walks of life, and I am open to exploring new genres and expanding my musical horizons.