In the context of Hip-Hop, there is a popular term that is thrown around anytime some new budding MC gains notoriety in the culture. There are references to various artists being the G.O.A.T, or Greatest Of All Time. But what really makes an artist great? What characteristics constitute an artist's legacy to be considered at the premium level over a span of time? This is a topic I will cover more in depth over the span of this semester, however, I would briefly like to explore this concept right now.
If you are not completely familiar with the competitive nature of Hip-Hop, it essentially developed as a form of poetic dueling when you think about it. As it grew over time, instead of "battling" in person, the contest became more ambiguous and personal. If you were to listen to this genre, following the timeline, you would notice the trend of rappers claiming to be the best, greatest, richest, and so forth.
My concern is over the potential logistics about this never ending competition. Is it possible to create a rubric for the purpose of critiquing a potential G.O.A.T candidate. I assert that it is indeed possible. If we can contend athletes as the G.O.A.T in their sport based on arbitrary statistics. why can't we create arbitrary statistics to keep track of the poets of rap?
Here are a few categories I propose as areas to judge a G.O.A.T candidate:
1. Lyrical Capability- Does the artist display complex, meaningful, or otherwise provoking lyrical capability?
2. Influence- Does the artist have an inarguable influence on the development and maintenance of Hip-Hop culture?
3. Mass Appeal- Does the artist make music that appeals to masses rather than niche fan bases?
4. Album Sales- The hard facts. How many albums actually sold in stores?
5. Innovation- Does the artist display the ability to be original, innovative, or otherwise progressive in the culture of Hip-Hop?
6. Musical Talent- Does the artist play instruments or compose music at an above average level?
7. Work Ethic- Does the artist work exceptionally high in their art, business, or other forms of advancement of Hip-Hop culture?
Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. Who do you think is the G.O.A.T? Is it possible to define? Is there a category missing from my list?
