PASSION PROJECT/HOT97 BLACK THOUGHT

SHOW DISCIPLINE

Black Thought's freestyle on Hot 97 is widely regarded as one of the greatest displays of lyrical prowess in hip-hop history. On December 14, 2017, the legendary rapper, born Tariq Trotter, took the microphone at Hot 97’s Funkmaster Flex show and delivered a ten-minute freestyle that left the hip-hop community in awe. This monumental performance showcased not just his intricate wordplay and expansive vocabulary but also his ability to weave together complex themes and narratives seamlessly.

Black Thought is best known as the lead MC of The Roots, a critically acclaimed hip-hop band known for their innovative approach to music. However, his solo skills had often been underappreciated until this freestyle. Over a simple beat, Black Thought unleashed a torrent of bars that demonstrated his unparalleled skill as a lyricist.

The freestyle begins with an immediate intensity, "I'm sorry for your loss / It's a body dead in the car and it's probably one of yours." From this opening line, Black Thought sets the tone for what would be an unrelenting verbal onslaught. His delivery is confident and his flow impeccable, switching between rapid-fire delivery and more measured pacing without missing a beat.

One of the most striking aspects of the freestyle is its breadth of content. Black Thought touches on personal struggles, social issues, and the state of the rap industry, all while maintaining a cohesive narrative. He reflects on his journey in the music industry, mentioning the obstacles he has overcome and the perseverance that has brought him to this point. "I'm from the illest part of the Western Hemisphere," he raps, highlighting his roots and the influence of his upbringing on his music.

In addition to personal anecdotes, Black Thought delves into broader social commentary. He references historical figures and events, drawing parallels between the past and the present. Lines like "My ancestors took old food, made soul food / Jim Crow's a troll too" showcase his ability to blend historical context with contemporary relevance, making his message both timeless and urgent.

What truly sets this freestyle apart is the sheer complexity of Black Thought's wordplay. His use of multi-syllabic rhymes, internal rhymes, and alliteration is masterful. Each line is meticulously crafted, demonstrating a level of skill that few in the industry can match. He also employs a vast vocabulary, weaving together intricate phrases that demand multiple listens to fully appreciate.

The reaction to the freestyle was immediate and overwhelmingly positive. Fans and critics alike praised Black Thought for his technical prowess and the depth of his content. The performance quickly went viral, amassing millions of views on YouTube and cementing its place in hip-hop history. Even fellow artists were in awe, with many taking to social media to express their admiration.

In a genre often criticized for its focus on style over substance, Black Thought's Hot 97 freestyle is a powerful reminder of the art form's potential for profound expression. It stands as a testament to the power of lyricism and the impact that a single performance can have. For many, it was a reintroduction to an artist whose talent had been hiding in plain sight for years.

In the years since the freestyle, Black Thought has continued to release music that showcases his lyrical abilities, but the Hot 97 performance remains a career-defining moment. It is a masterclass in freestyle rap, demonstrating not just the technical aspects of rapping, but also the emotional and intellectual depth that the best hip-hop can offer.