How to Rap: The Art and Science of the Hip-Hop MC

Clipse, Cypress Hill, Nelly, Public Enemy, Remy Ma, Schoolly D, A Tribe Called Quest, will.i.am—these are just some of the acclaimed artists offering tips and advice in this compelling how-to. Delivering countless candid and exclusive first-person insights from interviews with more than one hundred of the most innovative artists, author Paul Edwards examines the dynamics of rap from every region and in every form--mainstream and underground, current and classic—and covers everything from content and flow to rhythm and delivery. A first-of-its-kind guide, How to Rap provides a wealth of insight and rapping lore that will benefit beginners and pros alike.

Customer Reviews:

Great Book

By V. Brown - July 15, 2010

As an up and coming rapper, I didn't know what to think about the book but I wanted to improve myself and my music. This book is a must have for any new or established artist. It has a vast range of artist comments, guidance and input. It also breaks down the music theory of hip hop to instruct/guide artists and listeners to better understand the music. It's very detailed and thorough (even what may seem obvious). I'm dissecting it now and learning some new every page. I know that my music will go to the next level because of it. Buy it invest in yourself or just enjoy the artistry and science of hip hop.

Wow - Amazing

By Antonio - October 12, 2010

Wow!

I am someone who has always been moderately interested in rapping, but never really knew much about it. There are some songs and some artists that I absolutely love, but everything else I pay little attention to. I don't know very many artists names and am almost completely unaware of rap prior to about 1999.

On to the book. This book has taught me all of the intricate details that go on into imagining, creating, editing, and performing that I could have ever wanted. Every single page taught me something that I found worthwhile and often thought was incredible. Another amazing side-effect of this book is that I now have a huge appreciation for the hip hop community, and am amazed and inspired by many of the individuals. I am now aware or and appreciate tons of great artists of the past and present that I had know idea about before. I have now listened to 100's of tracks that I never would have before, and have learned how incredibly talented these artists... read more

Definitive book on the subject...

By ilovecolor - June 17, 2011

This book offers great insight on various views and directions for artists beginning, artists to brush up on knowledge, and artists looking to put it all together.

Now I'm not a professional but I would assume a professional would have little reason to buy a book like this unless they have not found them selves yet. This book is not a spoon feeder. It is more of a 4 COURSE meal. You choose at your own pace what you would like to eat and the order you would like to eat it. It offers great reference from many artists. Most are underground yet the important thing is that there are many avenues on the various components of rap. These are present. It doesn't give you worksheets, it instead provides views and points of views. These points of views are then perceived by the reader according to their understanding. The level of information is great depending on the ability of the reader to comprehend what is being read.

Truthfully just about everything covered in this... read more