21 Savage is rap’s most authentic ambassador. His topics challenge OG Rap fans and appease young fans alike.
When people think of spokesmen for rap, teachers like KRS-One often come to mind as well as classic rap emcees like Daddy-O, Melle Mel, or in more recent times David Banner and Killer Mike. But perched right alongside them in his own lane, is East Atlanta’s own 21 Savage. Known publicly for his aggressive and violent brand of music, his commentary on music and lyrical talent is often ignored and substituted for sound bites.
Here are five of his most impactful moments.
5. Nas Isn’t Relevant.
Honest statements often trigger debates and backlash, but feelings aside, 21 was technically correct. Nas’s skill is dominant. Nas’s impact is legendary. His influence is generational. But to a younger rap audience whose first introduction to rap may have come after 2007, his music wouldn’t be a current reflection of their life nor would it connect.
This does not mean his music is any less powerful or potent. It simply reflects the time we’re in. But rather than acknowledge this view, folks would rather show their personal bias and project their views on 21’s artistry. Luckily, Nas and 21 were able to collaborate on the song, “One Mic One Gun”, as a show of solidarity and good will.
4. Stop Trying to Make Me One Dimensional
Ever since rap evolved into its more recognized form of gangster rap, rappers who’ve chosen to embrace it and then pen socially conscious lyrics have found themselves guilty of being called duplicitous. So it’s no wonder that when 21 Savage came out to tell Atlantans to put the guns down the criticism was swift. But on a larger level, why are we more upset at the messenger when ultimately we value the messenger more than the message?
If fans want fantasy and artists give them just that, who’s to blame? More so, isn’t 21 doing the same thing we praise other rappers for, which is rap about the streets, but sell us a vision of success and help for the kids? What makes it different when he does it?
3. This is Art? How the F** Can You Tell Me How to Express Myself? 35:09-36:25
A deep dive into some of 21 Savage’s Breakfast Club interviews contain a couple of hidden gems like this one. In his 2018 interview, 21 addressed the generational hate that artists like Kodak Black and 21 receive for their art form. His comparison to the hate that artists like 2Pac received for their music, which Pac famously referenced in Old School is just one of the many points he made.
21’s comments mirror the tradition of Andre 3000 who had to remind the rap game that they were being narrow-minded and biased towards the South, much in the way they were then terming their music as mumble rap.
2. You Ain’t Crazy You Stupid! 52:10- 53:16
The Big Facts Podcast is one of rap music’s best shows, primarily because of the authentic voices and conversations they have. In the middle of the pandemic when violence was at its peak, 21 Savage said the one thing everyone from 16-25 needed to hear which was to work for what you want. The desire to emulate the streets and avoid the 9-5 has affected the youth and 21 used his influence to tell them that the most gangsta thing to do is survive and feed themselves and their family, even if it requires a 9-5.
1. I’m Not Trying to be the Greatest Rapper.
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J. Cole’s endorsement of 21 Savage on the song, “A Lot” opened him up to another fanbase who for the most part slept on his lyrical ability. In the years since he’s rapped alongside many lyrical titans from Cole to Drake but still, there are many who would not consider him as capable as his peers.
Still, the crux of his views which he reiterated in his 2018 album, I Am > I Was, centers around personal growth and competition with himself. His persona often blocks people from seeing his skill, and so true to form, he reminded Math Hoffa that he’s not worried about being the greatest rapper especially when the criteria change often.
Wright World 