Battle Rap has made its way to the mainstream and it’s here to stay!
The Art of Diss: Battle Rap Then and Now is a new PBS documentary that explores the history and current state of the sport. PBS’ Sound Field, “a music education series that explores the music theory, production, history, and culture behind our favorite songs and musical styles,”. The documentary will delve into the origins of battle rap and its continued success.
In the second episode of Sound Field’s fourth season, titled “The Art of Diss,” battle rap veterans Arsonal da Rebel, DNA, and others make cameos and provide analysis. The Art of Diss is a documentary hosted by Arthur “L.A.” Buckner and Linda Diaz that explores the rise of battle from its underground roots to the mainstream success it receives now because of the efforts of people like Smack White founder of URL (Ultimate Rap League).
The documentary features iconic rap artists including Jay-Z, Nas, Roxanne Shante, and Kool Moe Dee, all of whom have engaged in battle rap. These rappers paved the way for the massive industry that is modern battle rap, which draws in millions of spectators and a lot of money.
Geechi Gotti, Tsu Surf, and Charlie Clips are just a few of the talents who got their start in the Ultimate Rap League, which was formed by Smack in 2009. “I’m trying to make this into a household sport,” White told PBS. “What we have accomplished so far is amazing because if you pay attention to what’s going on in this culture, you see so many territories have adopted the style of this art form.”
Watch The Art of Diss: Battle Rap Then and Now below.
