I didn't intend to opine re: online vs. audio rap. I think both are great; I probably never would have begun writing whole verses were there no lyricism forum here. I have voice only a newscaster could love.

If you look on the Rawkus site, there's a lot about "true emcees" (who record and perform) versus online textcees. I think there's nothing to argue about; online just provides another way for hiphopers to talk to one another. U can't prove any of us sound good 'til we check the mp3s. Maybe by joining cypher and other cites, the artform will be elevated.....

I've looked at just a few other lyric forums, but I was put off by the lack of talent, vocabulary, theme, rhythm; not to mention there's a level of decency on fp I can appreciate. (*And the design is efficient/easy to look at*)

I'm sure there are other great sites, but I haven't really found them yet. I goto reasonstation.net, some underground hiphop spots.

Yknow I *might* have to call *both* you leaders out, just to keep your attention (I might need some back up, but ain't skeered either), but as you see, I like to write what's on my mind, not just battle. I get on a soap box and can't always focus on the individual tit for tats. After while, trading insults don't get you far.

I guess I really like Conscious rap best, but I know we have to keep the battles alive since they were the birthplace. And there's nothing like the beef I'm hearing goin' between the BigTymers-that shi+'s tight. I even like slams, but there better be something more than back and forth battles, for me.

By the way, I had been to rawkus many time, it never dawned on me to go to the message boards. If you know of other hot cyphers, let us/me know!

One ATLien