PHILLY

What's up wit all the thumbs down? I don't think cats should speak thru each others rounds. Havin said that part of talkin thru each others round is arguably about *gamesmanship*. Cats do whateva they can do downplay their opponent. Sometimes it adds to the intensity which might make for a more exciting battle. Sometimes it can end a battle. Yeah damn shame time limits is such an issue smh!! Platforms gotta be more adament about time. It can be hard to have professionalism in something that perhaps is inherently unprofessional if we connote professionalism to include organisation, decorum etc(more than just separatin amateurs from experts). It is from the streets after all & arguably the origins might imply a level of unprofessional behavior. The lack of framework, distinct guidelines indicate unwillingness (perhaps) to even become more professional (organised, decorum, documented rules etc). Certainly the idea of battle rap (in its current uncensored street vibe/form) becomin mainstream (mainstream is often linked wit professionalism) seems diametrically opposed wit battle rap's essence It's not to say that rapper can't be convinced to show up, to be on time, to keep quiet etc but it can be hard to overlay the demands of a job on to what was essentially a hobby. The worry is layin down rules/decorum/attitude thru professionalism generates a snow ball effect that goes beyond the initial goals. 1 minute it's don't talk thru each others rounds, then it's don't touch each other, then it's don't stare each other down, then it's don't talk about the dead, then it's don't talk about the opp gettin snuffed, etc etc becomin more & more tame & tepid. Talkin about the dead, exposin personal life or the threat of a fight generates an atmosphere & feelin that maintains its links wit the streets (this is of course for particular battles. I'm not talkin Carter Deems vs Chedda Cheese). Some cats like grudge matches for this very reason. i do think there should be more professionalism. I'm just pointin out that battle rap has grown organically. It didn't start out wit a business plan. Alotta things are subjective makin it difficult to produce a framework that a consensus would susbcribe to. Battle rappers need to be more respectful of each other, leagues/platforms & fans.

"Bad Newz vs Loso is a super duper classic" is the new "Ryda vs Trez is better than Surf vs Big T". Next time you on a panel at least pretend to be objective dawg. #Bullpen