My Generation

The Who’s song, as stated, has very cynical lyrics similar to those in hip-hop. I feel my generation is definitely a hip-hop generation as hip-hop fashion, music, art, and other aspects are strongly part of our pop culture. I think many aspects of hip-hop that are exploited for financial gain have, unfortunately, become the most influential part of hip-hop in our society. 50 Cent’s philosophy to “get rich or die trying” is apparent in trends of rappers who discuss violence, drug dealing, cars, women, and money. It is also represented in our society at large with going to war for oil, and destroying our environment for greater profit. But, there are exceptions in hip-hop if you delve deeper.

Tupac Shakur, a personal favorite of mine, had many bleak lyrics similar to the Who such as “I ain’t paranoid- I’ve seen the future and it’s hopeless,” and, “Even if I did die young who cares? All I ever got were mean looks and cold stares.” I feel this better represents my generation- detached, apathetic, feeling helpless and misunderstood. Tupac very much talked about the “thug life” as 50 does, but it’s not the same. Tupac often warned of thug life leading to death, further oppression through prison, destruction, and deepening the hole of poverty the black community have yet to climb out of. I’ve always admired 2pac for representing so many different aspects of a generation and so many emotions all at once. His songs run the gamut from hopeless (R U Still Down?) to hopeful (Keep Ya Head Up); feminist (Never Call U Bitch Again) to misogynistic (I Get Around); peaceful (Changes) to violent (Hit ‘Em Up); etc. The “realness” of Tupac was truly felt, representing all the emotions of a youth and not just being tough and getting money. It’s the honesty and emotion that I feel my generation, and modern hip-hop, sincerely lack.

-Tim Cuff