Papoose: This Is the Worst Era of Hip Hop Ever (Part 15)

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In a recent interview, veteran rapper Papoose boldly declared this the worst era of hip hop, lamenting that the culture has lost its foundational values. He emphasized that unlike the past, when artists painstakingly wrote their lyrics by hand and showcased their skills across hip hop’s five elements—MCing, DJing, breakdancing, graffiti, and beatboxing—today’s scene favors image and business over artistry. Papoose expressed frustration with how success is often measured by wealth or style rather than lyrical skill, which he believes undermines true MCs and the artform itself.

Papoose also revealed the industry's resistance to authentic lyricists like himself, noting that some insiders have blocked his career despite his contributions and ghostwriting for major hits. According to him, this gatekeeping contributed to New York's diminished prominence in recent decades, inadvertently paving the way for Southern hip hop’s rise. Papoose’s impassioned critique calls for a return to hip hop’s roots and respect for its craft.