NYS Music 202​0

Author: Alain Clerine

  • New York Hip Hop: A Year in Review

    As the proprietor of hip hop, New York, carries certain expectations from the genres’ emcees. Take for instance that within the last half-decade alone we’ve seen top 10 records like “Hot N****,” “OOOUUU,” “All The Way Up” and “Dior” become staples of each respective summer. The inhabitants themselves walk around with a certain hubris, knowing that their fashion, demeanor and dialect is a valuable commodity within pop culture. With rap artists being a reflection of New York’s current state, there was bound to be an equal amount of historic moments and tragedy. As such, we take a look at the major events from 2020.

    Hip Hop Review
    Young Artists Stake Their Claim

    As cities like Atlanta and Memphis continue their surge within the genre, it is of importance that established young artists from New York continue their ascension, to keep pace with their counterparts. A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie kept himself relevant with the release of his much-anticipated Artist 2.0 album. Pop Smoke (before his tragic death) continued his meteoric 2019 with a strong sequel to his breakout mixtape, Meet the Woo 2. Dave East dropped a tertiary edition to his Karma mixtape series and Brooklyn continued to make waves with projects from J.I the Prince of N.Y., Fivio Foreign, Sheff G, 22Gz, Curly Savv, Rah Swish and the surging Bizzy Banks. 

    Veteran Emcees Still Have Something to Say

    Hip Hop is the culture of the youth. It always has been and always will be. Yet, many prominent veterans reminded fans that they still have stories worth listening to. Juelz Santana battled through turbulent times to release his #FREESANTANAmixtape, Jadakiss released a solid effort with, Ignatiius, M.O.P’s own Billy Danze dropped The Listening Session, KRS-One and Public Enemy dropped protest anthems. Twenty-twenty also saw the return of Nas, whose King’s Disease album showed an exceptional ability to blend his old school style with newer melodies. 

    Pop Smoke’s Death

    In a year that saw one celebrity after the other pass away tragically, New York felt their fair share of grief. On February 19, 2020 New York’s latest rising superstar, Pop Smoke, was fatally shot at a Los Angeles home in a botched robbery attempt. His death came a week after the release of his Meet the Woo 2 mixtape. His death was followed by outpouring support from fans and industry peers, including his music rising atop the charts. 

    The Kids from Buffalo 

    Building upon their established buzz, the trio known as Griselda — Westside Gunn, Conway The Machine and Benny the Butcher – continued their takeover as the faces of New York hip hop. The Buffalo natives brought some much-needed attention to upstate New York. 

    I know people in Buffalo that have never been to New York City in they life and they 30 years old. So, we come from one of them type of cities, that kind of mentality.

    Westside Gunn – The Ringer.

    Known for their gritty-hard hitting tales of the street life, the group kept themselves ablaze with multiple releases from each member throughout 2020. Westside Gunn kicked things off with his April release of, Pray for Paris, followed by Flygod Is an Awesome God 2 and his self-proclaimed retirement album, WHO MADE THE SUNSHINE. Benny The Butcher released his much-anticipated Burden of Proof record, while Conway the Machine’s From a King to A God rounded up a strong year for the upstate rappers. Their influence not only stems from their music, but also in the way they market themselves. That mentality perhaps comes from their head honcho, Westside Gunn.

    I never considered myself really a rapper, I just curate. I love putting different people together and just painting a certain picture..

    Westside Gunn
    Hip Hop Review
    Shoot For the Stars Aim For The Moon

    Despite his life coming to a tragic end, Pop Smoke’s musical momentum didn’t waiver, with his popularity in fact rising. His debut studio album was announced with 50 Cent as executive producer. The star-studded album became the record of the summer, with all 19 tracks simultaneously charting on the Billboard 100, eventually reaching platinum status.

    Listening to Pop come into his own as an artist was a bittersweet feeling. Despite the commercial success of the album, many songs consisted of either duplicated or unfinished verses. Yet, his ability to melodize on records like “Something Special” and “Backseat” combined with his already strong delivery on his grittier records made him a rarity in the drill rap genre. In fact, he had long surpassed the label of “drill rapper” and was blossoming into a superstar whose charisma would have made hip hop just the tip of his monetary exploits.

    Alas, that future was not meant to be. Instead, Pop Smoke’s music, exploits and legacy will be passed down from generation-to-generation where he’ll eventually become a fabled and mythical figure. In due time, the sorrow from his passing will turn into nostalgia, where we’ll remember 2020 as the year Pop Smoke ruled the airwaves. 

  • Queens Rapper Kyngjo Making a Leap With ‘Who That’ Official Video

    Upon the release of the music video for his single, “Calling Me,” Lefrak city native Kyngjo was happy with how his music was progressing, but was not fulfilled. Having begun his foray into the rap game only a year prior, he had seen significant growth in his sound and audience. With songs like “I’m Good Luv,” “Calling Me” and “Hypnotize” having reached tens of thousands of plays, he felt like it was time to up his production value.

    “A lot of people want to rap, but what separates most of them is who puts their own money behind it,” he adds. “People always say this, but you really have to invest in yourself.” 

    Kyngjo Who That

    With that, he embarked on a quest to shoot his best music video to date. The slick & catchy single “Who That,” which contains features from Long Island native, Pell The Don and Bronx rapper, Goggle Boy.”

    “I just felt like that was a song I could push,” he explains. “Everyone did they thing on it and it’s something you could bump in the club or in your whip.” With a more polished music video in mind, he sought out popular Queens videographer, V.Lens. “I have ideas, but I also want a videographer who can come with their own [ideas] and knows how to shoot a story, not just record the video.”

    Together, both artist and videographer brainstormed ideas and eventually came up with a fitting storyline to match the record. And so, the quartet made their way to the Long Beach section of Nassau County, as the boardwalk was designated as the perfect locale.

    Actress and model, Ceecee Valez, played Kyngjo’s love interest in a plot that sees him and Pell The Don counting wads of cash when Kyngjo peers off, noticing Valez’s character making her way out. The rest of video sees the trio deliver their verses in the two Rolls Royce Wraiths and inside a club-themed locale.

    Overall, the music video was quick and to the point (along with plenty of eye-catching props). Each artist got their chance to showcase not only their verses, but how well they work in front of the camera as this was a significant step up for each of them. “I wanted to separate myself from a lot of other people and I feel like I did that,” Kyngjo reveals.

    Kyngjo Who That

  • Rita Houston, WFUV Program Director, Dies at 59

    Longtime WFUV radio station program director and curator, Rita Houston, has solemnly passed away. A renowned DJ for multiple generations of listeners, Houston also excelled in her role as a musical curator, specializing in electric feel. WFUV announced Houston’s death early Tuesday morning and had reported her taking time off in order to deal with health issues. In reality, Houston had been battling cancer for the past six years.

    rita houston
    photo by Steve Malinski

    Having begun her career at the Fordham University radio station in 1994, Houston’s hard-work, commitment and genuine love of music saw her trajectory go from mid-day DJ to running the Friday night programming. Her show, “The Whole Wide World,” would allow her to scour the world for more programming, as such was her appetite for all things music. 

    In 2019, when Rita Houston celebrated 25 years at WFUV, Mayor Bill de Blasio congratulated her for the “indelible mark” she has made on New York as an epicenter of creative expression,

    Bringing joy to listeners throughout the five boroughs, providing a platform for new talent that deserves to be heard, and enriching the cultural vitality of our city.

    That was our Rita, and so much more.

    rita houston
    photo by Steve Malinski

    In a statement from WFUV general manager, Chuck Singleton acknowledged Houston’s role as

    The north star of WFUV’s sound and its public service, guiding the station’s musical direction for decades.”

    “She was a New York original, a trailblazing woman of exceptional talent who shaped a unique style behind the microphone — informed and informal, intimate, warm, genuine. But also, one of tremendous joy,” said Singleton.

    While declaring upcoming remembrances and celebrations of Houston’s life in the weeks to come, Singleton summarized Houston’s transcendent work by comparing her to other great musical acts who have recently passed. Stating, “right now, Rita, we see you on that stage with Sharon Jones, Bowie, Prince, and especially your beloved John Prine, emceeing the most heavenly edition of Holiday Cheer for FUV.”

    Houston is survived by her wife, Laura Fedele, a sister and two brothers. She was 59 years old. 

  • Happy Birthday Jay-Z, Hip Hop’s Big Brother

    When talking about the significant birthdays in hip hop, few mean more to the genre than Jay-Z’s. The Brooklyn-bred mogul has turned modest beginnings into a billion-dollar empire while doubling as one of the world’s most popular and influential entertainers. A product of Brooklyn’s Marcy projects, Hov has found success by being a forward thinker and staying ahead of the curve, something he has no problem reminding peers and fans alike. After all, who else could serve as Hip Hop’s “Big Brother?” So, as we wish him a happy 51st birthday, here are the top Jay-Z songs where he lets you know that he sets the trends, we just follow.

    Imaginary Players

    The fourth track off of his sophomore album, In My Lifetime, Vol. 1, “Imaginary Players” has stood the test of time as one of the premier “sh** talking” records in Hip Hop history. Hov spends nearly four-minutes reminding rappers that their records don’t sell as well as his, they’re not as fly as him and their money simply doesn’t stack up. As part of his earlier discography, it’s always fun to hear Jay – Z brag about cars, money and jewelry before his ascension to mogul status. The intro alone sets the tone for the whole record.

    I gotta be like the pioneer to this sh**, you know
    I was popping that Cristal
    When all y’all n***** thought it was beer and sh**, you know
    Wearing that platinum sh**
    When all y’all chicks thought it was silver and sh**
    I gotta really be the pioneer of this sh**
    Bottom line

    30 Something

    This is an interesting part of Jay – Z’s career. Hip Hop has always been driven by the youth, yet on this record, a 35-year-old Jay tried to convince the world that all the youthful materialism (rims, jewelry, gunplay) that had been a part of the rap culture for decades was now irrelevant.

    I’m young enough to know the right car to buy
    Yet grown enough not to put rims on it
    I got that six-deuce with curtains so you can’t see me
    And I didn’t even have to put tints on it
    I don’t got the bright watch, I got the right watch
    I don’t buy out the bar, I bought the night spot
    I got the right stock
    I got stockbrokers that’s movin’ it like white tops

    It was certainly gaudy of him to believe that he could single handedly shift hip hop’s culture to fit where he was at in his own life. But, the fact that he was able to turn this train of thought into an entire album — Kingdom Come — and not get ridiculed is impressive in itself.

    On to the Next One

    https://youtu.be/AQY7hivw67Q

    One of the lead singles off of 2009’s The Blueprint 3 album, this record continues the trend of Jay – Z letting rappers know that they simply do not have the connections that he does, so the moves he make will always be of a higher plateau. The Swizz Beats assisted record sees Hov double down on his new way of thought, letting listeners know that he’s only moving forward and since he’s used to setting trends, this would just be another one that the masses would eventually follow.

    I had Oprah chillin’ in the projects, Had her out in Bed Stuy chillin’ on the steps, Drinking quarter waters I gotta be the best,
    M-J at Summerjam, Obama on the text,
    Y’all should be afraid of what I’m gonna do next.

    He also continues his hilarious vendetta against throwback jerseys, which have been and always will be a staple of Hip Hop culture.

    Used to rock a throwback, balling on the corner
    Now I rock a teller suit, looking like a owner

    U Don’t Know

    One of the very best records from one of the best album’s in Jay – Z’s discography, “U Don’t Know” is the 6th track off of the original Blueprint album. The record serves as a reminder that Jay – Z’s business acumen was crafted from his time on the street. Backed by thumping drums and horns, Hov reminds everyone that if he’s nothing else, he’ll always be a hustler. From selling crack cocaine, to records, to clothing, he’ll always find a way to remain on top.

    I sell ice in the winter, I sell fire in hell
    I am a hustler baby, I’ll sell water to a well

    His ambition alone should serve as motivation.

    Could make 40 off a brick but one rhyme could beat that
    And if somebody would of told ’em that Hov’ would sell clothing
    Heh, not in this lifetime, wasn’t in my right mind
    That’s another difference that’s between me and them
    Heh, I’m smarten up, open the market up

    Otis

    I invented swag

    One of the very best songs of 2011, “Otis” is titled after legendary soul singer Otis Redding because of the heavy sampling of his voice throughout. But make no mistake, this song is 2:58 of unabashed braggadocio. The opening line sets the tone and from there on Hov and ‘Ye take turns letting us know that they’re the hottest sh** out and the biggest trendsetters in the game (and who would argue?).

    I made “Jesus Walks” I’m never going to Hell
    Couture level flow, it’s never going on sale
    Luxury rap, the Hermes of verses
    Sophisticated ignorance, write my curses in cursive
    I get it custom, you a customer
    You ain’t customed to going through customs
    You ain’t been nowhere, huh?

    After years of turning up his nose at those who would brag about women, cars and jewelry, Jay – Z sounded rejuvenated on this record.

    Poppin’ bottles, puttin’ supermodels in the cab, proof
    I guess I got my swagger back, truth
    New watch alert, Hublot’s
    Or the big face Rollie I got two of those
    Arm out the window through the city I maneuver slow
    Cock back, snap back
    See my cut through the holes

    We don’t know if Jay – Z will release anymore music, but his historic longevity has allowed us to see the maturation of the most influential figure out of New York City and for that, we can be grateful. While a few of these attempts at leading the charge have been hilariously head scratching, the impact, innovation and hustler’s mentality is something to be revered. Happy Birthday Hova!

    Happy Birthday Jay-Z

  • Wu Tang Clan and Texas Reunite for the First Time in Two Decades with ‘Hi’

    Wu Tang Clan released “Hi,” a new single alongside Texas, on Tuesday, December 1.

    Recognized as one of the pioneers of the grimy, raw, hard-nosed sound, Wu Tang Clan’s status as international stars is not to be underestimated. They were synonymous with New York for almost three-decades. Their reputation as one of the most influential factions in Hip Hop history has seen their popularity soar in nations throughout the world, one being Scotland.  

    It was February 9, 1998, when Clan members Method Man and RZA joined Scottish pop-rock outfit, Texas, on stage at the Brit Awards in London. The two factions were performing the remix to the latter’s top 10 UK charting single, “Say What you Want.” Now, over twenty years later, the two groups have collaborated on another trans-cultural record, “Hi.” 

    Featuring RZA, Ghostface Killah and with vocals from Sharleen Spiteri, the record came about during RZA’s time in Glasgow. Whilst the Clan head honcho was filming a documentary, he connected with Spiteri and subsequently contributed a verse the Wu Tang Clan track, “Hi.” 

    A fast-paced alternative record, the music video opens up with Top Boy actor, Kadeem Ramsay, watching footage of their iconic performance at the Brit Awards. The television then segues into a more recent interview between RZA and Spiteri in which they discuss their yearn to work together again. Ramsay’s character is a super-fan of the two groups, as his room is filled with posters, memorabilia, as well as a shirt with a picture from the 1998 Brit Awards plastered on it.

    Throughout the Wu Tang Clan “Hi” music video, he is seen performing routine tasks such as; picking out an outfit, driving his car and getting a tattoo. It is revealed that he kidnapped Spiteri in an attempt to get the two groups to collaborate once again. Spiteri responds by facetiming RZA, and after a short conversation, he obliges to the request. Spiteri and Ramsay then share a smoke, as she lightly ridicules his poor attempt at tying her up. 

  • M.O.P.’s Billy Danze Returns With ‘We Busy (The Listening Session)’

    On the heels of back-to-back releases in 2019 and in anticipation of his long-awaited album, The Billy Danze Project, Mash Out Posse’s (M.O.P.) own Billy Danze returns. His 13-song, 37-minute LP We Busy (The Listening Session) is a collaboration with Swiss producer, Too Busy. Known for his aggressive delivery and roughneck subject matter, Danze gained notoriety during the mid ‘90’s and early 2000’s as part of the hardcore Hip Hop duo M.O.P., along with fellow Brownsville native, Lil Fame. 

    The Mash Out Posse

    Recognized as a hardcore Hip Hop legend, Danze looks to present fans with a different point-of-view ahead of his upcoming album. A close associate and frequent collaborator to fabled producer DJ Premier, much of M.O.P.’s sound was rooted in classic hip hop principles. Heavy drums and loud snares, plenty of scratching, as well as distinctive riffs and sound effects, as exemplified by their breakout single, “Ante Up.” While The Billy Danze Project may see the Brooklyn-bred emcee return to his musical roots, he looks to show fans a different side of himself on We Busy. 

    “We Busy is more of the thinking section that leads to my album. The soulful beats helped me showcase the Billy Danze my audience may not know; I’m painting familiar portraits on an unfamiliar canvas,” Danze commented.

    We Busy features notable collaborations from a number of Hip Hop legends and pioneers. Along with production and narration from DJ Premier, guest appearances can be found from Method Man, legendary rapper, producer and one half of Mobb Deep, Havoc, M.O.P cohort Lil Fame, fellow Brooklyn native and Firm member Cormega and renowned West Coast rapper, producer and Dogg Pound member, Daz Dillinger. 

    With varying production styles, the project sees Danze remain in his own pocket on the Method Man assisted record, “Gotham.” Yet, on the song “Damn” the underground veteran tries his hand at more contemporary beats and flows, delivering his rhymes in a much lighter and playful tone. On records like “One to Grow on,” the aforementioned soulfulness rears its head, as the Havoc assisted record shows a vulnerable side of Danze. he raps about his apprehensions, fears, failures, goals and ambitions. 

  • Anniversary of Mary J. Blige Album ‘My Life’ Recognized with Re-Release

    As the anniversary draws near for My Life, the iconic sophomore album from Mary J. Blige, Geffen/Ume records will celebrate the November 29 anniversary with a re-release that features three physical forms.

    Mary J. Blige My Life

    The repackaged classic features 2CD’s, a standard weight black double vinyl, and a triple vinyl edition in translucent blue with a lenticular cover, including bonus tracks featuring rap icon LL Cool J, and underground cult-figures Smif ‘N Wessun. The 3LP edition will also be available digitally which will also feature commentary by Mary J. Blige on the original album tracks. 

    Mary J. Blige My Life

    As one of the most celebrated R&B albums of all-time, My Life was the catapult towards the Bronx native’s placement as the queen of R&B. After a highly successful debut that featured records like “What’s the 411?” and “Real Love,” Mary J. Blige’s subsequent work showcased her songwriting abilities, going in depth about trials and tribulations and exploring topics such as; abuse, alcoholism and self-love. Her increased involvement in the songwriting process, along with her collaboration with Bad Boy Records and their much-heralded group of producers “The Hitmen,” resulted in a transcendent piece of work. Much more than that, records like “Mary’s Joint,” “No One Else,” helped her become a symbol for women’s strength, soulfulness, beauty and resiliency. 

    https://youtu.be/hI7GqHxr7EE

    My Life was nominated for Best R&B Album at the 1995 Grammy-awards, and in ensuing years, Rolling Stone included the album on their 50 Essential Female Albums (#17), 100 Greatest Albums of the ’90s (#63) and 500 Greatest Albums of All Time (#279)  lists. Blender Magazine ranked it #57 on its 100 Greatest American Albums list, and TIME deemed it one of their ALL-TIME 100 Albums. 

    In a showcase of the Legendary songstresses’ lasting relevance, Vice-president elect Kamala Harris’ celebratory walkout after clinching her seat in the White House was serenaded by Blige’s “Work That.”

    https://youtu.be/5TZJyDGsYdM

  • Pete Rock Releases ‘Rejoice’ from Forthcoming PeteStrumentals 3 Album

    Pioneering hip hop producer, Pete Rock, is set to release the third installment of his PeteStrumentals series of beat albums. The Bronx native released the inaugural project in 2001, beginning a trend of beat albums for producers looking to share their un-versed work. 

    The second edition was released in 2015, with the latest version set to feature his live ensemble, The Soul Brothers. 

    With the album set to arrive on December 11 through his Tru Souls imprint, the legendary producer released the album’s first single and video “Say it Again” last week. Now he has decided to share the project’s second single, “Rejoice.” Amidst a strong Jazz and Funk influence, the record features looping guitar and drum set, with a strong 70’s feel. Running just over two-minutes, it resembles something of an Isaac Hayes composition, standing as the perfect cross between laid-back and up-tempo, action packed music. 

    In an interview with OkayPlayer, the fabled producer went into more depth on the song’s creation. “I created ‘Rejoice’ in my basement as just a simple idea of a beat I made in my head. I listened to some jazz that day and heard something interesting and remembered it and just gave the band a direction reference; and they took it from there.” 

    Pete Rock

    Known for some of the most iconic production in rap history, the Grammy-winner has taken a different approach to this upcoming album, this time assembling a full-on band. The outfit includes, two-time Grammy-winning drummer Daru Jones, later on recruiting guitarist Marcus Machado, bassists Mono Neon and Christopher McBride, keyboardist BigYuki (A Tribe Called Quest), and vocalist Jermaine Holmes (D’Angelo). “I want the best; I’m like James Brown and Kool & The Gang; I want precision,” Pete Rock alerts. 

  • AZ Teases ‘Doe or Die 2’

    Of the many fabled rappers that have hailed from Brooklyn, AZ might be the most overlooked. When great Brooklyn emcees are the topic, the usual suspects are The Notorious B.I.G., Jay- Z, Big daddy Kane, amongst others. Rarely is AZ ever brought up and that is seemingly how he prefers it, having given himself the moniker “AZ Quiet Money.” 

    AZ — whose rise to notoriety came from his classic guest-verse on Nas’ magnum opus debut-LP, Illmatic — has mastered a rare skill in a profession that is filled with ubiquity and hubris. The art of playing the background and biting your time. It also helps that as a famed lyricist, AZ has laurels to rest on. 

    Which is why it comes as no surprise to see the “Sugar Hill” rapper tease the sequel to his platinum-selling debut, Doe or Die,on his own accord. In an Instagram post which features a teenage picture of AZ and Nas, the caption reads “We been cooking up since 94 & We still cooking.,, Doe or Die 2 Coming soon!”

    Although talks of a sequel to his debut can be traced as far back as 2015 (the album’s twentieth anniversary), there seems to be a re-invigoration from the “Mo Money, Mo Murder” rapper, having released a new record — “Found My Niche” —  and an accompanying music video earlier this year. 

    A return album would be AZ’s first since 2009’s, Legendary. The “Firm” rapper (along with close associate, Nas) has gained a reputation for a specific style of rap. While gangster and mafioso Hip Hop ruled the mid-1990’s, AZ’s claim to fame was that while he was from the areas where great dangers lied, his records weren’t always in first person and oftentimes portrayed stories from the neighborhood. In addition, AZ’s knowledge of self and higher learning has always made him a favorite among hip hop connoisseurs, making a possible release to Doe or Die 2,much anticipated. 

  • Pepsi Welcome Notorious B.I.G. into Rock Hall with Freestyle Challenge

    In honor of hip hop icon The Notorious B.I.G.’s induction into the Rock Hall of Fame, Pepsi released the remastered version to his one-of-a-kind Pepsi freestyle from 1997. The brand-new audio sparked online conversation about whether or not it was meant to be an ad. Nonetheless, the marketing tool was a success and brought attention to the fallen legend’s upcoming ordainment into the Rock Hall.

    Furthermore, Pepsi have doubled down on their celebration of the “Juicy” rapper with a newly announced “BIG Pepsi Freestyle Challenge.” Partnering with flagship New York radio station, Hot 97 — where B.I.G.’s original freestyle was recorded – Aspiring recording artists will have an opportunity to showcase their lyrical prowess with the ability to earn numerous prizes in the process. Using a beat provided on Hot 97’s website, entrants are to deliver their best freestyles mentioning Pepsi along with posting it on their social media outlets using the hashtags #BIGPepsiFreestyle & #Hot97Contest. A winner will be named a Champion plus four free nights of studio recording time and one week of digital market on Hot 97. Freestyles must be submitted by Friday, November 6 at 11:59 p.m., while official contest rules can be found here.

    Pepsi
    NEW YORK – JULY 23: Rappers Tupac Shakur, The Notorious B.I.G. aka Biggie Smalls (Christoper Wallace) and Puff Daddy (sean Combes) perform onstage at the Palladium on July 23, 1993 in New York, New York. (Photo by Al Pereira/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)

    Known for his mind-blowing freestyling, songwriting, intricate rhyme schemes and off-the-cuff delivery, The Notorious B.I.G.’s Rock Hall of Fame indication comes as no surprise. He will headline the 35thannual class of Rock Hall inducteeswith the likes of Whitney Houston, Nine Inch Nails, The Doobie Brothers, amongst others. With a short career spanning only four years (he debuted in 1993 and was shot and killed in 1997), The Notorious B.I.G was able to transcend pop culture with his debut LP, Ready to Die, along with his posthumous diamond double-disc album, Life After Death. With hit records such as “Juicy,” “Hypnotize,” “Mo Money Mo Problems,” the Brooklyn bred emcee set a standard for lyrical competence combined with stylish bravado, leaving many following in his footsteps.