University of Twente Student Theses
Exploring thematic changes in the most popular rap lyric : a mixed methods content analysis
Ritter, Maik (2024) Exploring thematic changes in the most popular rap lyric : a mixed methods content analysis.
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| Abstract: | Aim: The study systematically analyzes the thematic elements in popular rap lyrics from 2004 to 2023, focusing on how these themes reflect cultural and social trends within the genre over two decades. Method: A mixed methods approach combined qualitative content analysis with quantitative data examination. The dataset included 200 songs, representing the top 10 songs with rap lyrics from each year between 2004 and 2023. Lyrics were systematically coded using a codebook developed from existing literature and refined through iterative analysis. Results: The analysis revealed prevalent themes, including authenticity and storytelling, brand and name dropping, brutality and violence, contemplation and introspection, cultural and local referencing, dissing, emotions and feelings, empowerment and sexual agency, flexing, misogyny, and sociopolitical commentary. The distribution of these themes varied across the study period, reflecting changes in cultural and social dynamics. Discussion: The findings highlight the dynamic character of rap lyrics, with “Emotions & Feelings” being the most prominent, showcasing the genre’s focus on personal and emotional expression. Materialistic motifs, such as brand references and flexing, are widespread, underscoring the importance of material wealth in rap culture. While sociopolitical critique is present, it is less prominent compared to emotional expression and materialism, indicating a shift towards narratives centered around personal experiences and materialistic themes. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Bachelor) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 05 communication studies |
| Programme: | Communication Studies BSc (56615) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/100555 |
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