In the last 40 years, rap music has delighted young adults throughout the U.S. However, new artists have emerged recently who cause much controversy.

A stereotype surrounding the rap music industry is gang activity and a painful lack of intellect. Unfortunately, rappers like Gucci Mane and 2 Chainz, who fit this persona, have gained a following.

Then again, insightful comments like “Versace, cheese on my broccoli” from 2 Chainz could be deeply philosophical and I am just not intelligent enough to realize it.

Perhaps social protest lead by Gucci Mane could really aid in creating more progressive young Americans. Maybe pulling a gun and threatening a police officer really is the most articulate way to get a point across. I guess one could argue either way.

Aside from constantly brandishing illegal weapons, rappers like these also advocate drugs and degradation of women. Many of them have criminal records; Gucci Mane is currently facing 20 years in prison for illegal weapons charges.

Considering these men are the voices today’s youth are hearing, young people need to be aware that this is not a productive lifestyle despite what the artists may say.

I am completely in favor of free speech in music, but the youth must be informed that these rappers are not ideal role models.

The majority of this music genre audience are in high school. At this age, people are trying to find themselves and are very impressionable.

One solution is for parents to talk to their kids. Kids will find ways to get a hold of inappropriate music, especially with today’s Internet and file sharing.

But from the teenager’s perspective, who could resist the poetic lyrics of 2 Chainz; “I be like you could get her, he be like you could get her, I be like you could have her, he be like you could have her, He be like, it don’t matter, I be like, me neither.”

Word.