Chris Rock Assesses Today's Artists, Doesn't Know NBA YoungBoy

BYErika Marie44.5K Views
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Chris Rock, J Cole, DaBaby, Kendrick Lamar

He also loves Kendrick, J. Cole, and DaBaby, but questions if DaBaby has an entire album that he "can marinate on."

With every generation of rap, fans weigh in on who they believe to be the best artists on the block. "Old Heads" often take hits for comparing rising rap artists to those of the past, and Chris Rock was recently questioned about who he's been streaming as of late. The comedic icon appeared on Desus & Mero and discussed the type of rap artists that capture his attention.

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When asked what music he's listening to, specifically new artists, Rock struggled to give an answer. He asked for the hosts to drop a few names and they began with NBA YoungBoy—an artist the comedian admitted he wasn't familiar with. Rock said he is a fan of Pop Smoke, but he's still spinning tunes by artists like Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole.

"Who's the new album artists, you know what I mean? Like, I like DaBaby, but is there a DaBaby album?" Rock asked. "There's a lot of guys dropping hot singles, which is lovely. But I like to...a whole experience that I can marinate on." He then called Kendrick "the truth" and said that's what he wants to hear more of from rap artists. 

"A musical journey," Rock continued. "The ups, the downs, the weird single that you know—the weird album track that you know was never gonna be a single, but you love it." Watch Chris Rock's interview with Desus & Mero below and let us know what you think of his assessment of rap music.


About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.