Anderson .Paak’s Success at the Grammys

by BECK KENDIG ‘20

As I’m sure you all know, the 61st Annual Grammy Awards ceremony was held a few days ago. This event honors artists across all genres based on albums, music videos, singles, and performances. Although controversy surrounding the “Album of Year” decision might have stolen the show, this year’s Grammys symbolized an important transition in the rap industry, as it recognized artists like Cardi B, Childish Gambino, and Goldlink. Although I have not listened to every rap album and song this year, I feel that they were correct in recognizing one rap artist in particular: Anderson .Paak

On the night of the Grammys, I chose to put off my work and watch a solid chunk of the show out of my love of rap. Since fifth grade, I have been a fan of the genre. Every day, I looped a questionable but now nostalgic mix of Eminem, Soulja Boy, and Wiz Khalifa on my iPod touch. Since those days, I’ve branched out, delving into rap’s plethora of styles and subgenres. Today, I mainly stick to artists like J Cole, Joey Bada$$, Kid Cudi, Mac Miller, and SABA, among many others. These aside, I have grown to consider Anderson .Paak as one of my favorite artists. From Venice to Malibu and, most recently, “Oxnard,” Anderson .Paak has been consistently putting out incredible projects for years. In addition to “Oxnard,” he put out two notable singles in 2018: “Tints” with Kendrick and the featureless “Bubblin.” To my joy, Anderson .Paak won a Grammy for his performance of the latter song. I personally wasn’t surprised, as Anderson .Paak is not only an amazing musician but also a unique and necessary artist in the modern rap game. Acknowledging the Middle Child generation, the industry remains saturated with new school rappers. I have nothing against these artists, but their stylistic similarity is irrefutable. Often times I struggle to differentiate a lot of rappers these days by flow, lyrics, or beat. Although he exists within the same time frame, Anderson .Paak adds a taste of sweet individuality in his music. A drummer, songwriter, rapper, and singer, he has a part in every step of the production process. This versatility conjoins with his lyrical ability, unique voice, and undeniable talent in a fusion of hip hop, funk, soul, and R&B. The result is well worth a listen. I can go on and on about how amazing Anderson .Paak is, but this year’s Grammys have shown that his music is finally being appreciated on a worldwide scale.

          I explained earlier that I was surprised with the Grammy results. That night, Anderson .Paak tied Jay Rock, Kendrick Lamar, Future, and James Black for “Best Rap Performance.” As the award was specific to the rap genre, Anderson .Paak’s blended style is an outlier among the four winners. The instrumental of “Bubblin” is an exaggerated, fast paced mixture of horns and strings underlaid by a drum set. Striking in urgency, Paak’s vocals walk the line between rapping and singing. The record was never one to appear in any of the top 50 charts. It is boldly different, a product of true talent and individuality. Anderson .Paak’s musical ability is further emphasized by the distinction of his Grammy. Winning a performance-based accolade requires the highest level of on-the-spot competence. There’s no hiding behind studio quality autotune during a live show. So, whoever decides these awards, I salute you for recognizing a unique talent in an industry that too often sleeps on such gems. This Grammy was not only a celebration of true musical talent, it was also a flare of hope in the genre. A blessing paved over the years, we exist in a time where success in rap is achievable outside the mainstream lens. Ignoring the Grammy’s questionable decisions, I find solace in this necessary recognition. Appreciation for music like “Bubblin” signifies the possibility for untraditional rappers to exist and prosper in the rap industry. And I don’t know about you, but I’d certainly prefer more artists like Anderson .Paak over another gang of stereotypical SoundCloud rappers.