Nick Grant Advocates for the Resurgence of Lyricism in Hip Hop, Emphasizing Mentorship

In a recent interview with HipHopDX, Nick Grant shared his perspective on the state of lyricism in Hip Hop, asserting that while it’s still thriving, it may not be receiving the recognition it deserves.

Promoting his latest album, SUNDAY DINNER, the skilled wordsmith responded to Fabolous’ recent comments expressing difficulty in finding top-tier lyricism in contemporary Hip Hop. Nick Grant agreed with Fabolous but also pointed out the importance of mentorship and support from established artists for emerging talents.

“We gotta just stop hiring people that love the trolling, that love all the negative stuff that just comes with it and people that just love the microwave shit,” he explained. “We gotta get back to actually living and breathing the culture. The artists as well too.”

Highlighting some promising newcomers, Grant mentioned artists like Marqus Claes and Reuben Vincent, urging the industry to focus on promoting and nurturing such talent. He emphasized the need for established artists to play a role in guiding and endorsing emerging lyricists.

Grant drew parallels with the success stories of artists like Drake, J. Cole, Wale, Kid Cudi, Big Sean, and CyHi The Prynce, who were ushered into the spotlight by established figures in the industry.

“It’s tough when I say this, and I always get pushback, but lyricism is a[n old] boys’ club,” he elaborated. “I feel like you gotta be ushered in. I feel like the J. Coles, the Drakes … these guys were ushered in by [JAY-Z and Lil Wayne]. That’s how I feel about it. If these guys that we know and love say you got it, we believe them. We trust them. Even Kanye [came in via] JAY-Z.”

Nick Grant’s sentiments align with Fabolous’ earlier comments on Rap City Beyond the Basement, where Fab emphasized the continued existence of lyricism in rap but acknowledged the challenges it faces in getting mainstream exposure.

“I think it’s still here, in a sense. It’s just not always pushed to the forefront,” Fabolous had noted. “I think people need to hear lyrics that push them, that inspire them, create memories too. They need those. Every song can’t just be party, turn up. You need something that gives you… balance.”

In conclusion, both artists believe in the enduring presence of lyricism in Hip Hop, calling for a collective effort to shine a spotlight on the intricate art of storytelling within the genre.