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Boy in Da Corner

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 16, age appropriate for kids over 18; suggested age 16.

  • Is it any good?

    3.0
  • Common Sense says

    For older teens who like underground hip-hop.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 16–18

The good stuff

  • Messages:

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

What to watch out for

  • 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.
  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    References to smoking pot and drinking.

What Parents Need to Know

This review of Boy in Da Corner was written by David Brown

Parents need to know that some of the 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.

Families Can Talk About

Talk to your kids about the media in their life. We have more tools and tips that can help
  • Families can talk about how impressive it is that a 19-year-old writes all of the lyrics and most of the music on the album. How does this Brit's style of rap compare with American rap -- and which type do you prefer, and why?
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More on Boy in Da Corner

What’s the Story?

Dizzee Rascal's debut album, BOY IN DA CORNER, 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 for most teens. 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. The first single, "Fix up, Look Sharp," is turning some heads, but Rascal is more like Ralph Nader in a two-party hip-hop system. Kids might be surprised to find out that this rap is from another country, and might find it really interesting to hear hip-hop in another language.

Is It Any Good?

As with most creatively independent music, this album needs a few listens before it reveals itself as enjoyable. Sometimes it feels like Rascal'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.

Music Details

Released on: 1/20/2004
Parental advisory: Yes, Edited version available: No

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