Crack T.V: ART OF STORYTELLIN'

Article by Anthony Simpson

The ability to create a visual image through one’s poetic flow, coupled with a mellow or up-tempo beat, has become known as storytelling. For years, hip-hop artists have been telling stories through their flow, but only a few have reigned supreme, fully mastering the art of storytelling. This is not a list to rank the best of the best, but rather to highlight some of the most notable storytelling tracks. From past decades to now, this skill has thrived making some of the most memorable and hottest hip-hop tracks.

The Notorious B.I.G

Warning (1994)

Plot: Disturbed from his sleep at the crack of dawn is Biggie from his homeboy Pop. Pop warns Biggie about the hit on his head and the assassins coming to get him.

Biz Markie

Vapors (1988)

Plot: “Yo, Biz, do you remember me from Noble Street, chief? We used to be down back in the days”

A tale of those unwanted individuals who try to be down after you become rich and famous.

Shakey Dog (2006)

Plot: What was supposed to be an in-and-out run turns into a shootout.

Eminem

Stan (2000)

Plot: A tragic story of a crazed fan who only wants a response to his fan mail.

Ice Cube

It Was A Good Day (1993)

Plot: A day in the life of a black male trying to survive the next 24 hours in South Central, Los Angeles.

J. Cole

Dreams (2009)

Plot: Taken from a first person point of view, we learn of J. Cole’s infatuation with a girl he barely knows, questioning his sanity throughout the song.

Jay-Z

Friend or Foe (1996)

Plot: A relatively short track, Jay-Z plays a drug kingpin who loves to quote “Friday” and make sure outsiders don’t “Everevereverevereverever come around here no more.”