How Rap Affects Teenagers

In an informal poll conducted on Chicago streets, the majority of people think that rap lyrics have both a positive and negative effect on teenagers.

One of the largest genres of influential music for teens is hip-hop, and it has been influential since the late 1980’s, with the arrival of N.W.A on the billboard top 200 as # 1. The lyrics in the songs they wrote and performed glorified sex, drug use, and alcohol consumption, and had a large effect on the behavior of teenagers.

A study took place in London and an article was written concerning the issues of the effects of rap lyrics. “Positive portrayals of drug use have increased over time, and drug references increased overall,” said Dr. Denise Herd. “This is an alarming trend as rap artists are role models for the nation’s youth, especially in urban areas. Many of these young people are already at risk and need to get positive messages from the media.”

Rap History

Early songs in rap history were often informative tales, making sure that the listeners knew the consequences of their actions. "This indicates a shift from cautionary songs, such as those that emphasized the dangers of cocaine and crack, to songs that glorify the use of marijuana and other drugs as a part of a desirable hip-hop lifestyle," said Dr Herd.

“I got mushrooms, I got acid, I got tabs and aspirin tablets. I’m your brother when you need, some good weed to set you free. You know me, I’m your friend, when you need a minithin [a stimulant] I’m Shady.” Enimem sand in “I’m Shady.” He’s a role model for a lot of adolescents despite his lyrics.

Some People are Annoyed with Rap Music

Rap music to some people is a shameful genre of music to listen to.

“The beats may be good but the lyrics are terrible. I think the lyrics do affect teenagers and the way they behave. Kids at my school look up to their favorite artists and do the same things they do. I have friends that do drugs just because Lil Wayne does it,” said Jessica G., 17

“My sister listens to rap and all I hear from her bed room is cursing. I hate it," said Julia Murphy, 14.

Some experts say adults don’t approve of their children listening to rap.

" I don’t let my daughter listen to it when I’m around. I can’t help but think she is doing illegal things,” says Holly White, 43.
People Still Enjoy the Cool Beats of Rap

Some people are not as affected by rap as others may be. Others may just listen to the background bass, and beats instead of the raunchy lyrics.

"I love the way rap sounds, although I don't really listen to the lyrics enough to be affected by it," said Monica J., 17
The ages vary from young to old that listen to rap music and still enjoy it.

"The lyrics may be stupid but, the beats are amazing," said Oz, 50.

"My mom is definitely unaware of what I am listening to but I still enjoy listening to my favorite rappers," said Allison M., 16

There are positive and negative affects from music.

"Rap has no affect on me, but I can see how it may affect other teenagers in to doing illegal things," said Eric R., 19

Photo by: Stuart Ramson