More Risks in the Rap World...

IF RAP GETS JEALOUS by K'NAAN - Emerging rapper-musician K'naan, originally from Somalia, isn't shy about his distinguishable style. The former refugee arrives with a little auto-bio and a message to the haters in this catchy, rock-based track. Get a better feel for his fresh sound at his MySpace.

PROM QUEEN by LIL' WAYNE - The accomplished rapper is testing himself and the masses by releasing a new, entirely rock album called "Rebirth". "Prom Queen" is the emo-tinged first single. Weezy follows the T-Pain-stamped autotune trend in order to forge a tolerable singing voice. The lyrics lack substance in comparison to Wayne's chart-topping rhymes. But you'll still hear the loyal fans and rap-rock rebels blasting this song's basic riff from their cars.

WELCOME TO HEARTBREAK by KANYE WEST FT. KID CUDI - The title says it all. A humbled Ye complains about alienating himself with money and missing out on the true valuables of life, like love. You basically get to hear the ego-tripper cry on this track: "OOooh-oOOoh" - heartbreaking..... or hilarious?

Video of the Week: Higher by Theophilus London

"WHO'S THE MESSIAH? AINT READY FOR LIES"

Allow me to formally introduce you to the new face of hip hop. Indie culture has infiltrated the hip hop scene, and artists like Mr. Theophilus here are gradually stealing the spotlight from the Jim Jones gangsta types. This video, featured on YouTube, highlights the urban art of NYC, instead of gang violence. This song, whether you're feeling it or not, is spiritual, and not materialistic. This kid, in the nerdy skater spirit of Pharell, Lupe, and Kid Cudi, is changing the game. He may lack the street cred, but he's got something that today's hip hop is losing: purpose. And passion. And effort. Better get used to those dork-glasses, skinny jeans, and purple sweatshirts! You won't find many half-naked women around here.

*Didn't like the song? Play the track below... it epitomizes Theo's electro-dance style.


{Kanye warned us with "Love Lockdown" and "Heartless"... hip hop's going emo!}