In this era of Nicki Minges, Lil Wee-Man and Waka Flockaccino, you'd be forgiven for thinking rap music was as shallow and materialistic as those purported to represent it. Thankfully, we know that you know that we know that you know better than that.
From Rawkus to Flipmode, Spitkickers to Soulquarians, the influence of the Native Tongues movement spread far and wide. It's manifesto of individuality, fun, conscious thought and freedom of expression had a lot to do with why many of us fell in love with hip-hop in the first place. We've tried to illustrate that legacy here by including artists like Panacea, Phonte & 9th Wonder, Niamaj and Hi-Tek, who aren't strictly considered part of the original Native Tongues but who undoubtedly grew up under their influence. As a result, some of the founding classics had to make way, but unfortunately you have to cracks a few nuts to make an omelette.
Join us again in February for the mighty BEST OF 2012! Til then homebodies..
