Confrontation, Confessions, and Conversations in Rap Music 

By: Emma Paff

Throughout the decades, storytelling in rap has shifted from straightforward accounts of street life to more cinematic tales. Nowadays, artists have been more heavily exploring topics such as mental health, addiction, love, and family, giving their music an intimate tone. This shift has led us to more conversational pieces, allowing listeners a quick glimpse into the artist’s personal hardships. The incorporation of narrative and dialogue gives the feel of eavesdropping on a personal conversation. Several notable artists have showcased their respective intimate styles of conversational rap in their music, the songs below are a few of many examples.

The track “Meet Again,” by Maxo Kream, is written like a letter to a friend or family member who is incarcerated. Kream raps directly to them, updating them on life outside and reflecting on what they are going through inside. He addresses that regardless of the system’s attempts to hinder his communication, he continues to look out for them. Kream’s casual tone contributes to the piece’s authentic feel, resembling genuine communication. 

“Both Sides of a Smile” by Dave and James Blake is a 7-minute and 40-second anthem that dissects the duality of love and pain. Dave’s infidelity is at the forefront of this piece as he grapples with the never-ending cycle of guilt and temptation. James Blake provides a somber and haunting chorus, coaxing Dave to turn pain into something worthwhile.  We hear from the points of view of both the man and the woman in this piece. In the second verse, Dave’s voice smoothly starts fading into that of ShaSimone, who brings in the women’s perspective. The raw emotion in her voice is captivating as she tears into Dave for cheating and neglecting her emotional needs. Her anger and exhaustion are prevalent as she speaks, “Ask me if I’m taken, I said taken for granted.” Incorporating the female perspective brings dichotomy and realness to this piece. As the chorus slows to simple piano keys, Dave is forced to confess his actions and acknowledge the pain he put her through.  

Tyler, the Creator showcases his strong storytelling abilities in his song “Hey Jane,” where he addresses the emotional turmoil of the unplanned pregnancy he experienced with a partner, “Jane”. He battles between supporting his partner and dealing with his own feelings of uncertainty and guilt after receiving the news. He then switches to the persona of “Jane,” where she processes her pregnancy and battles with the options she has. The honest and revealing nature of the two-way conversation contributes to its emotional depth for those involved.  

In his album Take Care, Drake expresses his gratitude for the sacrifices his mom and grandmother made for his career in the track “Look What You’ve Done.” He brings us back to the beginning of his career when Lil Wayne signed him to his label. Drake reflects on previous tension in their relationship and how despite that, they still made sacrifices for his dreams. He emphasizes how he wouldn’t have been able to get there without their help, and now he is in a position to support them. As the storytelling unfolds, we witness his past and understand his family’s sacrifices in his pursuit of stardom.   

Conversational rap offers a unique window into the lives of artists through their raw honesty and vulnerability. Their ability to capture periods of their lives and paint a picture of the scene allows the listeners to understand better the experiences that have shaped them. Sharing their most intimate moments transforms the musicians from public figures to individuals that an audience can relate to. Conversational rap music transcends the normal listener experience and connects them with the artist through personal stories.