It's a debate that's nearly as old as the culture itself: Who are your Top 5 MCs of all time? From era to era the names change as new rappers emerge and wade their way into the conversation, from Biggie and 'Pac, Jay Z's ride after their demise, LIl Wayne's dominating mixtap run and Kanye's individual brilliance. But, Rakim is the blueprint for the modern MC. Ice Cube should get just as much credit for what he did on the mic as what Dr. Dre did behind the boards to construct California's sound. And Melle Mel delivered "The Message." Plus LL Cool J's star is stilll shining bright. But what about Scarface?
That's part of the fun and also part of the frustration. We all come from different times, different locations and have a different appreciation for hip-hop.
In Chris Rock's latest movie, "Top 5," the comedian plans a comic named Andre Allen who is seeking to take his career in another direction amid some ...interesting decisions. Which then begat some more interesting decisions. But, despite his career (and life) in crisis, he's grounded by a visit back to his old neighborhood where his family (extended and otherwise) square up for a round of Top 5.
Not to be outdone, Rock brilliantly assembled a roundtable with some of the best the hip-hop media has to offer (Ed Lover, Hot 97's Miss Info, RESPECT. magazine's Datwon Thomas, Life + Times' Shaheem Reid, this writer, REVOLT's Jayson Rodriguez, and moderator by Angie Martinez) where he and the film's costar, Rosario Dawson, duke it out to determine the (not so much) definitive Top 5.
Watch above and check back for more REVOLT coverage of "Top 5."
via Revolt TV
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Best guide to hip hop, soul, reggae concerts & events in San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles & New York City + music, videos, radio and more
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