More on Wasted Beats...

As a general rule, I think it's important to offset negative criticisms of anything with positive examples that portray the antithesis of that which is being criticized. In my case, it's only appropriate to provide examples of what I believe to constitute great hip-hop. That said, I realize that some of the examples I'll ultimately provide could be considered by many as that which I so harshly criticize: the abhorrent 'wasted beat.'

Let's be fair, my hip-hop heroes aren't entirely guiltless when it comes to offensive lyrics, shameless self promotion, or the glorification of materialism. Tupac, Jeru, Guru, and The Beastie Boys have all written lyrics that use language or convey a message that won't be appropriate for consumption by my children for many, many years. Misogynistic messages, profanity, and the veneration of drug money are prevalent themes in many of the songs written by some of my favorite hip-hop artists; however, as is the case with all things in life, each artist's work should be viewed in all relevant contexts.

When making criticisms or endorsements of any artist, it's important to do this in the context of the artist's entire body of work. Although Tupac had some really nasty things to say about Biggie, he gave unequivocal praise to women in 'Keep Ya Head Up.' Although The Pharcyde places a great deal of emphasis on marijuana use (to the extreme extent that one of the band members claims to expose his son to marijuana use on their album Labcabincalifornia), they are still able to convey largely positive messages through their gifts of humorous storytelling and unique prose.

In general, the body of work plays a large role in distinguishing the truly gifted artists from the one-hit-wonders that plague the hip-hop airways today. Even the greatest musicians aren't immune from releasing at least one song that falls well short of the mark of their musical potential. It's the ability of these artists to move us with truly unique works of musical art that separates them from the grubs that taint our ears with wasted beats.