Rhythm, Rhyme and Riches: Investigating Economic and Wealth Themes in Rap Lyrics Through a Pragma-stylistic Analysis

Abstract

Many prior research has examined diversities of themes portrayed in rap music, including, violence, drug abuse, glorifying alcohol, crime etc. The current study investigates the ways in which rap style uniquely implicates riches, wealth, and power through the strategic use of linguistic devices. By identifying metaphors, hyperbole, parallelism, personification, sarcasm and, irony etc., with slang as key elements, the study explores how these devices collectively shape the portrayal of economic experiences within rap communities.

The analysis provides a clear understanding of the economic and wealth theme embedded in rap lyrics, shedding light on how language is employed to critique societal structures, promote messages of economic empowerment, and express the realities of marginalized communities. Furthermore, the study examines how the rhythmic flow, word-choice, and storytelling emphasis inherent in rap style contribute to the thematic exploration of riches, wealth, and power.

This research enhances our comprehension of how rap, as an artistic form, engages with economic themes through language and style, offering insights into the unique ways in which rap communicates messages of economic significance and empowerment.