The Art of Diss: Battle Rap Then and Now

Watch Fight the Power: How Hip Hop Changed the World on @PBS : https://youtu.be/v3YCJX4_43Q

Arthur "L.A." Buckner and Linda Diaz explore the rich history of battle rap and the birth of the Ultimate Rap League (URL). Featuring special guests Smack White, DNA, and Arsonal, we dive deep into the roots of this art form and its cultural significance.

Starting in the late 1970s and early 1980s, we explore the evolution of rap battles from Harlem parties to worldwide competitions, culminating in the formation of the Ultimate Rap League in 2009. Smack White, the founder of URL, shares his journey and vision for the league, while DNA and Arsonal, two of the most respected and talented battle rappers in the game, give us a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to succeed in this highly competitive art form.

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We like music. You like music. Let’s break it down. Sound Field is a PBS Digital Studios web series produced by Twin Cities PBS. #SoundFieldPBS #Battlerap #PBSDigitalStudios #rapbattle