A Proper Beat is the antithesis of a Wasted Beat. It's a song whose lyrics blend with the underlying track in such a way that an original artistic work is created. The message of the work is elevated beyond the ego of the artist, telling a compelling story in a musically moving way that evokes strong emotion in the listener. A Proper Beat is not about bling, glory, fame or status; it's about authentic artistic expression that makes your head bob. Proper Beats pay the appropriate homage to the tracks they sample, giving fresh perspective to time honored classics.
'One Day' is such a Proper Beat. Jeru's track from the album 'Wrath of the Math' is an all too short tale of treachery and malice that describes the kidnapping of Hip-Hop by the likes of Puff Daddy and Foxy Brown. The metaphor is obvious: Hip-Hop is being held hostage by greedy phonies who are only interested in their own financial gain. Hip-Hop is eventually rescued by Jeru and his crew, unmasking the kidnappers by noticing Foxy Brown's fake alligator boots. The narrative is clever and provides a clear message: desecrating hip-hop with greed and self indulgence is a serious offense to the art form.
Jeru and his music are about authenticity and originality. He is a poet and a self proclaimed prophet. Prophet may be a bit strong, but his heart is in the right place. Although Jeru's more recent works have lacked the punch and grittiness of 'Wrath,' he will always command respect of the genre's hard-core fans.
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