What's Good: Notes on Rap and Language

What's Good is a passionate lyrical analysis of hip-hop, exploring its use of language and its evolution over time. It is a love letter to the art form and a celebration of its pleasures and perils. The book is for committed hip-hop heads, curious neophytes, and anyone in between.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 17 March 2022
Publisher: City Lights Books

What's Good is a remarkable work that delves into the intricate world of hip-hop, offering a profound exploration of its verbal artistry. Authored by Daniel Levin Becker, this book is a testament to the author's passionate dedication to lyrical analysis. It serves as a captivating combination of a freewheeling liner notes, a love letter to the most vital American art form of the last half century, and a thoughtful examination of rap's linguistic complexities.

Through a series of concise chapters, each centered on a distinct lyric, Becker delves into the multifaceted ways in which rap employs language. He explores the interplay between local slang, rhyme, and rhythm, as well as the more analytical aspects such as quotation, transcription, and philosophical considerations. What's Good celebrates the joys and challenges of deciphering the intricate mechanisms behind rap's meaning-making technologies, highlighting the rich tapestry of its lyrical expressions.

The book's scope is wide-ranging, encompassing a diverse range of rap artists and styles. From the iconic Sugarhill Gang to contemporary sensations like UGK, Young M.A, Rakim, Rick Ross, Rae Sremmurd, Jay-Z, Drake, and Snoop Dogg, Becker's analysis offers a captivating journey through the evolution of hip-hop. The text reads like a deftly curated mixtape, drawing the reader into the vibrant conversation and encouraging them to engage with the lyrics on their own terms.

What's Good appeals to a diverse audience, including dedicated hip-hop heads, curious neophytes, armchair linguists, and anyone with an interest in exploring the rich linguistic tapestry of this iconic art form. The book's brevity and brilliance make it an accessible and engaging read, offering a fresh perspective on rap's linguistic prowess.

In conclusion, What's Good is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the power of words and the artistry of hip-hop. It is a testament to the author's dedication, passion, and linguistic expertise, providing a profound and insightful exploration of this dynamic and influential art form. Through its engaging narrative, meticulous analysis, and broad appeal, this book offers a new set of eyes and ears through which to appreciate the beauty and complexity of rap's language.

Weight: 494g
Dimension: 179 x 330 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780872868762