Will History Repeat this Year?
The Grammys never fail to be controversial for hip-hop fans, with numerous questionable wins and notorious snubs over the duration of the awards. Last year’s notable drama was when Macklemore & Ryan Lewis’s The Heist beat out Kendrick Lamar’s good kid, m.A.A.d city for best rap album. It was widely acknowledged that Lamar’s album deserved the win, and while many tried not to disregard Macklemore & Ryan Lewis’ hard work, even Macklemore said in a text to Kendrick he posted on Instagram, “You got robbed. I wanted you to win. It’s weird and it sucks that I robbed you.”
This year’s Grammy nominations present a similar situation. Macklemore had tremendous Top 40 success, which put him on the voters’ radar. If 2013 was Macklemore’s year, then 2014 was Iggy Azalea’s. Many are dreading a repeat of last year’s upset. While no one means to ignore the hard work and success of these artists, is this category the best way to reward them? Is Top 40 success enough to justify best hip-hop album of the year? Let’s take a look at the nominees for the 57th Grammy awards.
The Marshall Mathers LP 2 – Eminem
There is an interesting theme of growth throughout the album, exemplified in songs like “Headlights,” where Eminem apologizes to his mother. It has catchy allusions to classic hip-hop and classic rock, but sometimes Eminem over-focuses on technique, and this tendency is placed above making a good song in some instances.
Because the Internet – Childish Gambino
In this album, Gambino finds his voice and improves his skill – the production is fantastic. Its main downfall may be that it was too ambitious, with its accompanying short film and screenplay, but it definitely cannot be dismissed, because it tackles a prevalent issue: social media.
The New Classic – Iggy Azalea
“Fancy” was a definite success; however, the rest of the album doesn’t live up to the single. It has an inspirational vibe, but no authentic backstory, other than a brief explanation through the hook in “Work:” “No money, no family, 16 in the middle of Miami.”
Blacc Hollywood – Wiz Khalifa
This album has some great singles, but the track placement is questionable when listened to as a whole. The alternation of “turn-up” and slower songs is too jarring and lacks flow. The production isn’t outstanding, but core Wiz fans will enjoy this album.
Oxymoron – ScHoolboy Q
Q’s first album with major label backing lives up to expectations, and does it well. However, we don’t find out much about him that we didn’t already know. He combines his street and party sensibilities in his singles, and the entire album is strong.
Nobody’s Smiling – Common
This is Common’s 10th studio album, and it is considered his best. It focuses on Chicago and its ever-increasing gun violence. He is careful to appeal to all generations, thankfully not coming off as preachy. It has fantastic tracks, but isn’t flawless.
Despite the controversy, the Grammys are one of the biggest nights in music, recognizing the efforts of artists both in the studio and onstage. However, awards aren’t everything; last year, Kendrick Lamar acknowledged that winning isn’t a confirmation of success for him, and his fans’ reactions to his music and their support is more meaningful.