Boy in Da Corner - Dizzee Rascal

For older teens who like underground hip-hop.

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Music details

Artist(s): Dizzee Rascal
Genre: Rap
Label: Matador Records
Parental Advisory: Yes
Edited Version: No
Release Date: 01/20/2004

Parents need to know

Some of Dizzee's songs are about sex, and there are a few references to smoking marijuana and fighting, but unless a teen looks up the lyrics on the Internet, content isn't much of an issue because most of the rapping is so difficult to understand.

If your kids do take an interest in Dizzee Rascal, talk to them about how impressive it is that the 19-year-old writes all of the lyrics and most of the music on the album. Ask them how this Brit's style of rap compares to American rap--which type do they prefer, and why?

Message
Violence
Sex
Language

Message

Social Behavior:

Not a bad role model for kids. He's anti-violence, anti-celebrity, and thoughtful about the world around him.

Consumerism:

Drugs/Alcohol/Tobacco:

References to smoking pot and drinking.

Violence

Some posturing and mild talk of violence, but it's far from drive-by shootings or gang violence.

Sex

Some disrespectful depictions of women and references to sex.

Language

A few curse words, but you can barely understand his lyrics.

Common Sense says

What's the story?

Reviewed by David Brown

Dizzee Rascal's debut album is far from your commercially popular rap. This is edgy, underground English hip hop that creatively explores new territory.

Unfortunately, that territory won't be very accessible or enjoyable for most teens. Dizzee Rascal's thick British accent and choppy, syncopated delivery make him nearly impossible to understand. His lyrics can be found online, but remain somewhat cryptic, even on the printed page.

As with most creatively independent music, this album needs a few listens before it reveals itself as enjoyable. Sometimes it feels like Dizzee's just poking you uncomfortably in the ears, but this kind of creative freedom is difficult to find in the music industry, and it's worth a few tries.

The first single "Fix up, Look Sharp" is turning some heads, but Dizzee Rascal is more like Ralph Nader in a two-party hip hop system.

Your kid might be surprised to find that rap can come from other countries. He or she might be interested in hearing hip hop in foreign languages, in which case they should check out other international artists.