Contradictions in hip hop are nothing new, however, there seems to be one that plays out more than any other. Artists tend to boast about how real they keep it in their music and how they speak on the reality of everyday life. Yet, when faced with criticism about certain lyrics or content, they often change their tune and question the criticism, stating that (in the word's of Jay-Z on "Ignorant Sh*t"), "It's only entertainment".

There are plenty of times that artists get creative and use their words to do nothing more than entertain their audience. This is especially true when artists tell stories that may contain images of violence, sexual escapades, crime, and any other "unspeakable acts". Usually, these tend to be funny and lighthearted, sometimes they can be more graphic, but with the intention of warning about certain perils of life. Other times, they might tell stories about what goes on in their neighborhoods and what they grew up around. Some of these stories are real, as well. Other times, artists insert themselves into the third person to depict a level of reality that isn't there.

This is where the lines between reality and entertainment become blurred. The bravado that goes along with being a rapper (obviously I'm speaking mainly about male artists here) has caused them to state certain things in their music that they pass off as truth, although it may not be. This doesn't only happen when telling tales of their past lives, but also when we look at beefs and battle raps. When things get personal and artists start threatening one another, is that really about entertaining people? On the flip side, is everything they speak reality? How much of this can be said about the rest of the music and images these artists paint?

This brings us to the title of this blog. The more I've thought about this blend of entertainment and reality, I've come to the conclusion that hip hop is a lot like a movie based on a true story (just the music, not the culture). The overall story and plot is real, but there is still creative license used. Some things are exaggerated while others are made up completely, yet, there is truth in much of what is being delivered. Of every musical art form, none prides itself more on the truth than hip hop, but all consumers want to be entertained in one form or another. 

Balancing that line between reality and entertainment can be hard to do. Hip hop likes to label their music one or the other when convenient, but they co-exist. Acknowledging this doesn't make the music any less real. We just have to learn that speaking in absolutes only devalues what we have. True artists find a way to remain genuine, even in slightly bending the truth. In the end, we as fans can connect with the person, but be entertained by the music.

What are your thoughts? Does hip hop typically speak in absolute terms? Is all music just entertainment and the labeling doesn't matter? Is "keeping it real" in hip hop a lie altogether? Leave all opinions and thoughts below. You can send any e-mails to straightouttahiphop@gmail.com.

Peace.