Hip-Hop
It's all good, guys.
I can see where you're coming from... I mean, mainstream hip-hop is not representative of hip-hop as a whole. The idiots in mainstream hip-hop (i.e. Puff Daddy, Master P, Nelly, Ja Rule, etc.) are a complete shame to the art form, but unfortunately, that's what most people percieve as "real rap."
The true artists (i.e. Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Common, The Roots, Dead Prez) are what should represent real hip-hop.
Mainstream hip-hop has become so polluted by idiots who go around with their pants hanging down and spitting watered-down lyrics that it's absolutely despicable to me these days.
However, there are some emcees who can maintain artistic integrity and still have mass apeal; Eminem is a prime example of this. You may not like him, and you may not like his lyrical content, but there is no denying that the man has a way with words. He's a poet.
Anyway, that's just how mainstream hip-hop is right now. I'm sure that it's just a passing fad, and I know hip-hop will get back to its roots soon.
Hip-hop started as a music by the people, for the people. It should be used as a voice for the people, political consciousness, and as a vehicle for the betterment of everyone.
For some cool sites on REAL hip-hop, check these out:
http://www.okayplayer.com
http://www.tonedeff.com
http://www.hiphopinfinity.com
Peace & Respect.
- Akwah