Rampage Calls Rappers Out!
In a fiery interview on Shade 45’s The Punchline Academy, Rampage of the legendary Flipmode Squad didn’t hold back as he called out fellow 90s rappers for releasing what he described as “trash” new music. Known for his raw lyricism and dedication to the craft, Rampage questioned why so many artists from the golden era of hip hop have strayed from the sound and style that earned them their fan bases.
“What’s Wrong With Being the Artist You Were?”
During the interview, Rampage posed a critical question: “What’s wrong with being the artist you were when you came into the game?” He argued that many 90s emcees seem to abandon the very elements that made them icons, opting instead for trends that don’t resonate with their core audience.
“Fans fell in love with you for a reason,” Rampage said. “Why switch it up and put out something that doesn’t even sound like you anymore? What happened to the music that represented the struggle, the authenticity, and the rawness?”
He went on to challenge artists to reflect on their purpose in hip hop. “What is your purpose here as an emcee? Are you in it for fame? Money? Or are you in it to leave a legacy that the culture can respect?”
A Call for Authenticity
Rampage’s comments reflect a growing sentiment among hip hop purists who feel that the golden era of the 1990s produced timeless classics that stand in stark contrast to some of the newer material released by its architects.
While acknowledging that evolution is natural, Rampage argued that change shouldn’t come at the expense of authenticity. “I’m not saying you can’t grow as an artist,” he said. “But don’t forget where you came from. Don’t forget the fans who supported you when no one else did.”
Flipmode Squad Legacy
As a core member of the Flipmode Squad, Rampage is no stranger to the grind and the glory of hip hop. The group, led by Busta Rhymes, dominated the late 90s with their high-energy tracks, intricate lyricism, and undeniable charisma. Albums like The Imperial cemented their place in hip hop history, showcasing a sound that was both innovative and true to the culture.
Rampage’s critique of his peers is rooted in the same ethos that guided Flipmode Squad: a commitment to quality and staying true to oneself. He emphasized that artists owe it to their fans—and to the culture itself—to maintain the standards that made them great.
A Wake-Up Call for the Industry
Rampage’s interview on The Punchline Academy serves as a wake-up call for 90s rappers and the broader hip hop community. His words challenge artists to rethink their approach to creating music and to honor the legacies they’ve built.
“What’s wrong with making classic music that your fan base loves you for?” he asked. “Hip hop is about storytelling, authenticity, and representing where you come from. Don’t lose that just because you’re chasing a trend.”
Rampage’s passion for the culture is clear, and his message resonates as a reminder of the importance of staying true to one’s roots while navigating the ever-evolving music industry. Whether his words spark change remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Rampage is still holding it down for hip hop’s golden era.
Rampage Calls Rappers Out!
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