The state of hip-hop as a music genre and overall culture is hitting all-time lows.

While underground 'scenes' continue the traditions of classic hip-hop, what the general public considers it to be is an over-glamorized version of itself, with little-to-no social commentary.

So does that mean that hip-hop is really dead?  Some would say 'yes,' while others continue to have hope for the future.  KRS-One just joined with Marley-Marl for a response to Nas' album "Hip-Hop is Dead," showing some members of the music community took slight offense to Nas' album title.  But at this point, individuals such as KRS are in the definite minority.

Do you think hip-hop will ever get revitalized and brought back from the dead?  What is your input on it?

I, personally, got sick of new hip-hop music once we reached 2000 (really it's been all downhill since '97, and though I have the upmost respect for 2Pac I believe he was the 'beginning of the end' himself with the extreme thug imagery becoming a global mainstream success).  I decided to start making hip-hop that I liked for myself, and suggest others to do the same.  Bring it back to the essence of what made it so great to begin with.  Have fun with it, express yourself, make people groove/dance/get into the beat, and even SAY SOMETHING WORTHWHILE (it won't hurt, it will only bring the audience closer).

If you'd like to hear what I'm referencing, check out either my website (http://www.elicash.com) or even my MySpace page (http://www.myspace.com/elicashlowkey) and add me as an 'electronic-friend.' 

Thanks......and discuss.....