Motor City Rising - Chris "Preach" Smith

Elzhi of Slum Village

Detroit is a city that like one of its many favorite sons, Joe Louis, has
taken numerous punches to its gut. The automobile industry's woes
in addition to other troubles such as a wayward mayor, corruption and
drug-related violence has made Detroit a city pitied and scorned by
others. (I won't even go into detail about the Lions.) But things are
beginning to slowly change for the better in the D, through the hard
work of some community initiatives. And since any resurgence needs
a soundtrack worthy of its energy, Detroit now boasts a hip-hop culture
totally unique and inspiring in its own right.


Guilty Simpson.

Hip-hop in Detroit is as old as the art form itself. I still remember its earliest
veteran, the late MC Breed who was the first rapper to make it big out of
the midwest, a year before the female rapper Boss' debut on Def Jam. And
Detroit hasn't lacked for talent since, with J Dilla, Eminem and Slum Village
being their standard bearers for the rest of the 1990's until now. It also has
shown a certain diversity among its base of rappers, boasting D12 and the
infamous Insane Clown Posse who have spawned an almost rabid fan base
known as 'Juggalos'. One also can't forget the impact of Royce Da 5'9, one
fourth of the group Slaughterhouse and a well regarded microphone vet.
I've had discussions with different people who feel that contemporary hip hop
wouldn't be what it is without influences from the D and its artists.
And aside from the obvious examples, other MC's are putting their stamp on
the game in a big way. Guilty Simpson, who puts in work with Stones Throw
Records came up with J Dilla's backing. Black Milk is a highly regarded producer
and MC who never ceases to amaze. Elzhi of Slum Village has made a solid
solo career for himself, recently touring with Jeep as a sponsor. Big Sean has
made a splash with the help of Kanye West and G.O.O.D. Music. Danny Brown
and his unique style has the blogs up in arms. And just to prove that the ladies
do have a serious impact, Invincible is getting a lot of buzz in the industry.


Invincible.

All of this talent from the Motor City should reinforce the idea that
hip-hop is a rejuvenating force in many ways. What it also should do
is remind people of its roots as a new generation of MCs, DJs and
producers take their cue from those before them in Detroit. Most
importantly, it should remove all doubt from naysayers about their
effect on the music like what happened when the South's influence
took a great hold over the past years. Like NO ID said, "the one that's
in the middle is the one that sees the most."