Bridging the Gap: How Hip-Hop Artists of Older and Younger Generations Can Coexist

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The genre of hip-hop has changed dramatically over the past 10 to 15 years. New trends, styles, and blending of multiple genres and influences are commonplace in hip-hop music today, and the internet has played a strong role in this new-form "no boundaries" attitude. However, the natural evolution of the genre has unfortunately created a certain type of disconnect between older and younger generations. The golden era, boom-bap-infused music of the 1990s doesn't resonate with the 16- to 24-year-old demographic like it used to.

The majority of the youth in 2015 are fans of trap music as well as more eclectic styles and out-of-left-field sounds. Some veteran emcees of the past are suffering from this disconnect, and up-and-comers are more prone to being unaware of those who built the pillars of hip-hop's foundation. But rather than focus on generational animosity or disregard, artists of the hip-hop community should learn to appreciate all of what the culture has to offer. If you think this is easier said than done, here are four actionable ways that hip-hop artists can help bridge the gap, and musicians of all generations can coexist together and succeed.

1. Attend shows that are outside of your comfort zone

Even people who place hip-hop on the bottom of their musical totem pole can be won over by a great live show. This trait similarly applies to artists who may not be fond of today's trap influence or the hardcore boom-bap rap of previous years. Especially in the world of hip-hop, respect is earned when you witness an artist get out onstage, put forth a ton of energy, and move the crowd to do the same as a result. But this level of respect will not exist unless there is the effort to actually support the local scene and attend these shows.

Performances and showcases are a primary location for artists of all ages to build connections with each other, and the more shows you attend, the more likely you will acquire a new level of respect for someone you least expect. Don't avoid a show because the bill is filled with artists who don't align with your individual tastes. You don't have to attend every single event and force the issue, but a couple of appearances to show support and appreciation of the craft can go a long way.

2. Pay attention to what your producer has to say

It's easy for rappers to avoid each other if they choose to stay in their tight-knit circles. However, producers and beatmakers tend to work with all types of emcees. From kids in high school to rappers in their 40s, a great producer has the ability to adjust his or her work behind the boards depending on who he or she is working with. And as an artist, you aren't going to stop working with someone who makes great beats because of the off chance he or she may encourage you to connect with someone you're wary of. If a producer you respect says that a collaboration with an unfamiliar artist would be in your best interest, it's foolish and rather petty to ignore that advice.

Producers are in a primary position to bridge the gap because they can't afford to disregard an entire generation of emcees when the money from the beat-making process shows no judgment on who it comes from. An authentic level of trust is built between artists and producers, and it can be utilized to create chemistry between rappers of all ages.

Producers: don't avoid this responsibility! It will pay off for you in the long run.

3. Don't avoid each other in the studio

Anybody who's spent some time in a studio full of rappers knows this situation. There are usually four or five different circles of artists, and they rarely stray away from the comfort zone of their group. It's common to see this differentiation based on the age factor – a primary example of the disconnect that exists between artists of different generations.

So while it may be easy to stick with people you can relate to more, branching out is a lesson that needs to be learned for all artists; why not start by implementing the approach in this kind of situation? It takes confidence to walk up to a group of strangers, but you'll earn respect from everyone in the room by doing so. If you're a fan of someone's work, you should tell them so, and it's this type of honesty and appreciation for the craft that can make a positive difference in generational unity. And if great music is created as a result, everyone wins!

4. Take the time to listen to more than just a single

Above all else, it's important to not judge the work of an artist based on the one single he or she may be known for. The quality of the music should always be the primary focus, and a complete body of work deserves respect regardless of the age of the person who made it. If you're a veteran emcee and a young rapper is getting praise from his or her peers, take the time to listen and attempt to understand why he or she is receiving praise. Being bitter because your time in the spotlight has "passed" is the least productive position to take.

Artists on both sides of the timeline don't have to pretend to love the music of both sides, and there's no need for forced collaborations or false praise. But that doesn't mean you can't respect the work and the grind it takes to succeed as an artist of any age. Whether your fanbase is rapidly growing or has been in place for years, there's room for all sides to succeed and thrive in today's market. So don't forget to take the time to listen; you may surprise yourself and become a fan of an artist who's 20 years younger or older than you, yet has an equal level of dedication toward the craft and a common passion for the music you love and have devoted your life to.

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Eric Bernsen is a marketing/public relations professional and music journalist who specializes in the genre of hip-hop. You can find more of his work at HITPmusic.com (where he is an editor/writer) as well as HipHop-N-More.com, where he contributes album reviews. Follow Eric on Twitter @ebernsen.