Rate The Bars Season 4 Episode 3 Rate the Bars with Mozzy
- January 28, 2019
In the fourth season of Rate The Bars, hip-hop fans can expect another eclectic mix of artists, songs, and ratings. Episode 3 features Mozzy, the Sacramento rapper known for his gritty street tales and unflinching authenticity. As always, the premise of the show is to rate the bars - that is, the lyrics of each song - on a 1 to 5 scale, based on their complexity, creativity, and impact.
The episode kicks off with Mozzy's own track "Sleep Walkin", a haunting, introspective cut that showcases his vivid storytelling and emotional depth. The panelists - including rapper Benny The Butcher, actress Lauren London, and radio host Charlamange Tha God - are impressed by the imagery and vulnerability of the verses, giving them mostly 4s and 5s. Mozzy himself joins in the discussion, adding context to his lyrics and sharing his inspirations.
Next up is "Traumatized", a collaboration between Mozzy and fellow West Coast rapper YG. The song tackles police brutality, gang violence, and the struggles of living in poverty, over a melancholic piano loop and booming drums. The panelists appreciate the rawness and urgency of the lyrics, but some find them too repetitive or straightforward. Charlamange gives it a 3, while Lauren and Benny go for a 4.
The third track is "Not Impressive", by Bay Area rapper Philthy Rich featuring Mozzy and Yhung T.O. The title suggests a lack of confidence, but the three MCs deliver confident, boastful verses over a bouncy, bass-heavy beat. The panelists enjoy the performance aspect of the song, with Mozzy's charismatic ad-libs and T.O.'s nimble flow standing out. However, they also note the heavy use of autotune and the lack of substance in the lyrics. The ratings range from 2 to 4.
The fourth and final song of the episode is "Choke On Me", a collaboration between Mozzy and Seattle singer Tsu Surf. The track switches gears from the previous ones, with a slower tempo and a more introspective, romantic tone. Mozzy and Surf trade verses about their relationships and their fears of being hurt, over a mellow guitar melody and subtle drums. The panelists are divided on this one, with some finding it refreshing and heartfelt, and others finding it too cheesy or cliché. Benny gives it a 5, while Charlamange gives it a 2.
Throughout the episode, the panelists also engage in broader discussions about the state of hip-hop, the role of artists in society, and the blurred lines between personal and artistic authenticity. They praise Mozzy for his consistency and his ability to stay true to his roots, while also challenging him to push himself further as an artist. Mozzy, for his part, is a gracious and engaging host, sharing his perspectives with honesty and humor.
Overall, Rate The Bars season 4 episode 3 with Mozzy is a solid installment of the show, balancing the fun and educational aspects of rating lyrics with deeper insights into the creative process and the cultural significance of hip-hop. Whether you're a die-hard fan of Mozzy or just looking for some new music recommendations, this episode is worth checking out.