Rap Consciente

Valete's 'Rap Consciente' is a powerful critique of the current state of hip hop, particularly focusing on the commercialization and superficiality that he perceives in the genre. The song opens with a deeply personal reflection on the artist's struggles, including the death of his father and his battle with alcoholism. This sets the stage for a broader commentary on the state of hip hop, contrasting his own hardships and authenticity with what he sees as the shallow, fame-seeking tendencies of other artists.

Valete criticizes the shift from meaningful, revolutionary lyrics to songs that prioritize commercial success and superficial themes. He laments the loss of the genre's original spirit, which he describes as 'rap guerrilheiro'—a form of rap that was once filled with revolutionary fervor and social commentary. Instead, he sees a landscape dominated by 'baladas radiofónicas' and 'rimas de ostentação e materialismo,' where artists are more concerned with views and likes than with substance and message.

The song also touches on broader social issues, such as the persecution of activists in Angola, the narcissism of the 'Geração Snapchat,' and global conflicts like the '3ª Guerra Mundial entre Ocidente e Jihadismo.' Valete positions himself as a 'MC bombeiro,' a firefighter for hip hop, aiming to extinguish the flames of superficiality and bring back the genre's original, rebellious spirit. He acknowledges his own past mistakes and paradoxes but asserts his return to 'rap de revolta,' ready to combat the 'rap burguês' and restore authenticity to the music.

'Rap Consciente' is a call to arms for the hip hop community, urging artists to return to their roots and focus on meaningful, impactful lyrics. It's a critique not just of individual artists but of a broader cultural shift, challenging listeners to think critically about the music they consume and the values it promotes.