Overview
The transcript explains the seven levels of rapping ability, ranging from the lowest ("trash") to the highest ("GOAT"), outlining the characteristics, strengths, and limitations of artists at each level.
Level One: Trash
- Artists at this level are known for poor quality, lacking flow, skill, and redeeming qualities.
- Their music is widely considered unlistenable and often mocked or tolerated only as a joke.
Level Two: Bad
- These rappers deliver extremely limited performances, often relying on gimmicks or trends.
- They tend to stick to a single style or flow and fade out of popularity quickly.
- Notable examples include one-trick ponies and out-of-touch artists attempting to fit in.
Level Three: Mid
- "Mid" rappers produce unremarkable but inoffensive music, ideal for background settings.
- Their work is common in commercials and public spaces but lacks a dedicated fanbase.
- They may offer basic wordplay and variety but remain generally forgettable.
Level Four: Elevated Mid
- Rappers here can demonstrate introspection, complex flows, or rhyme schemes, earning respect from casual listeners.
- They often connect deeply with their audiences and maintain relevance over long periods.
- While considered decent, they are still not easily distinguished from higher levels by mainstream audiences.
Level Five: Good
- These artists possess clear rapping skill, including storytelling and wordplay, and enjoy broad industry respect.
- Despite their strengths, they lack certain qualities that would make them great for purist fans.
- This category is diverse, including both mainstream and underground figures.
Level Six: Great
- Level six rappers display high technical mastery and can outperform most peers on any given track.
- They are respected globally among hip-hop fans and often inspire future generations.
- Some fall short of the very top due to others building upon their style and surpassing them.
Level Seven: GOAT (Greatest of All Time)
- GOAT rappers are rare, excelling at all aspects of rap with instantly recognizable style and voice.
- They can adapt to both complex and mainstream sounds and are unmatched in depth and influence.
- Examples include Kendrick Lamar, Jay-Z, Andre 3000, and prime Eminem, whose work is considered timeless.
Types of Rap Fans
- The transcript teases that there are seven types of rap fans corresponding to these levels, encouraging self-reflection on preferences.