Chipmunk, in association with Def Jam Rapstar is on the hunt for the UK’s best lyricist having been named as a judge for a nationwide competition looking to test the language skills of school children across the UK.
The competition is open to young people aged between 12-17 years old and entrants can get involved by uploading their lyrics, audio or video files to the competition’s website - http://www.defjamrapstarschools.com. There will be downloadable backing tracks from top hip-hop producers including Jay-Z’s producer Just Blaze and DJ Premier who has worked with a range of artists including Christina Aguilera, Nas and Notorious B.I.G.“It’s important for rappers to understand language” commented Chipmunk. “If you look predominantly at hip-hop superstars like Eminem, Jay-Z and new guys like Drake what they can do with words set them apart and their wider vocabulary help them go further - literacy rules.”
Chipmunk’s Rhyme-writing Tips:
- Practice at different tempos - try slower tracks, faster tracks, different vocal tones.
- Pay attention to your similes and metaphors - try and write a rhyme where people say, “Hey, that meant three different things.”
- Be yourself and talk about what’s true to your life -small or large, someone will relate to you. Don’t pretend to be someone you’re not.
Many schools are already onboard and some young people could find the competition being used as part of their lessons. Students are asked to write or rap about something that is important to them or on subjects covered in class.
The competition closes on 6th December.
For more information of Def Jam Rapstar please go to www.defjamrapstar.com.
