Doechii Joins Kendrick Lamar in Defending Hip-Hop as an ‘Intellectual’ Artform

Hip-Hop has long been a cultural powerhouse, shaping music, fashion, and social movements worldwide. However, it has often faced criticism from those who question its intellectual depth. Rising star Doechii, along with Grammy-winning rapper Kendrick Lamar, has taken a stand against this outdated notion, arguing that such beliefs are deeply rooted in racism. Doechii has joined her former TDE comrade Kendrick Lamar in defending Hip Hop against those who claim it is not a legitimate artform worthy of respect.

Hip-Hop: A Genre of Vulnerability and Skill

In a recent interview with The Cut, Doechii expressed her deep appreciation for rap music, dismissing the idea that it lacks intellectual value. She highlighted how old-school Hip-Hop was built on vulnerability and lyrical mastery, making it a profoundly expressive genre.

“I’m gravitating back towards things that I used to love,” she said. “The first album I ever purchased and ever remember listening to in full length was The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.”

Lauryn Hill’s debut album, widely regarded as one of the greatest Hip-Hop and R&B albums of all time, has influenced generations of artists, including Doechii. She believes the impact of albums like this proves that rap music is more than just entertainment—it’s a powerful vehicle for storytelling and emotion.

“Anyone who doesn’t think that Hip-Hop is an intellectual genre, I think that assumption is rooted in racism,” Doechii added.

The Influence of Lauryn Hill on Doechii’s Music

Expanding on her love for Lauryn Hill, Doechii explained that she hopes her own music will inspire young Black girls in the same way The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill inspired her.

“The feeling that I have when I listen to The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill is the same feeling I want some other Black little girl to have when she listens to me,” Doechii shared. “And in order for her to have that feeling, I have to talk about my feelings.”

By embracing her authenticity and emotions, Doechii aims to contribute to Hip-Hop’s legacy as a genre that is both intellectually rich and culturally impactful.

Kendrick Lamar’s Take on the Misconceptions About Rap

Kendrick Lamar, who recently made history at the 2025 Grammy Awards, also addressed the ongoing misconceptions about Hip-Hop. The Compton-born rap icon emphasized that Hip-Hop is far more than just a commercial genre—it’s an art form that has evolved over decades.

“When people talk about rap, man, the conversations I hear, they think it’s just rap and it’s not an actual artform,” Lamar stated. “So when you put records like [‘Not Like Us’] at the forefront, it reminds people that this is more than just something that came 50 years ago.”

Lamar’s statement reinforces the idea that Hip-Hop is a legitimate art form, one that deserves the same respect and recognition as any other genre of music.

Hip-Hop as a Cultural Movement

Since its birth in the Bronx, New York, in the 1970s, Hip-Hop has been a powerful force for social change. It has provided a voice to marginalized communities, addressed political issues, and created a global cultural movement.

Some of the most intellectually profound artists in history, such as Nas, Tupac Shakur, and J. Cole, have used their lyrics to tackle issues like racism, inequality, and systemic oppression. Their work serves as undeniable proof that rap is an intellectual genre that challenges societal norms. The Compton superstar, who was fresh off sweeping the 2025 Grammy Awards, added: “When people talk about rap, man, the conversations I hear, they think it’s just rap and it’s not an actual artform.

Breaking Stereotypes: The Role of Women in Hip-Hop

While male artists have traditionally dominated Hip-Hop, female rappers like Doechii, Lauryn Hill, Nicki Minaj, and Megan Thee Stallion have shattered glass ceilings, proving that women in rap are just as lyrically gifted and intellectually powerful.

For years, women in Hip-Hop have fought against double standards, with critics often dismissing their contributions. However, as Doechii continues to rise, she hopes to change these narratives and ensure that women in rap receive the recognition they deserve.

Hip-Hop in Academia: A Growing Movement

As Hip-Hop continues to establish itself as an intellectual genre, more universities and scholars are beginning to study and teach rap music as a serious academic subject. Institutions such as Harvard University and New York University now offer courses on Hip-Hop history, culture, and lyricism.

This shift proves that rap is not just entertainment—it is literature, philosophy, and social commentary all rolled into one. Scholars analyze the complex rhyme schemes, cultural impact, and historical significance of Hip-Hop, further solidifying its position as a legitimate art form.

The Business of Hip-Hop: A Billion-Dollar Industry

Beyond its cultural and intellectual value, Hip-Hop has also become a global economic force. The genre has dominated streaming platforms, fashion, and branding, making artists some of the most influential entrepreneurs in the world.

Rappers like Jay-Z, Diddy, and Kanye West have expanded Hip-Hop’s reach beyond music, launching successful businesses in fashion, liquor, and technology. Their success proves that Hip-Hop is not just an art form—it’s a powerful economic movement.

The Future of Hip-Hop: A More Respected Genre?

Despite criticism, Hip-Hop remains the dominant genre in modern music. Its ability to evolve, innovate, and influence other genres has solidified its place in history.

With artists like Doechii and Kendrick Lamar leading the charge, the conversation around Hip-Hop’s intellectual value is shifting. The genre’s rich history, cultural impact, and deep storytelling abilities make it one of the most important and influential art forms of our time.

Final Thoughts: Hip-Hop’s Legacy as an Intellectual Artform

Hip-Hop is more than just beats and rhymes—it is a cultural phenomenon that has challenged the status quo for decades. The idea that it lacks intellectual depth is not only misguided but rooted in racial bias.

Artists like Doechii and Kendrick Lamar are proving that Hip-Hop is a powerful storytelling medium, one that demands respect, appreciation, and academic recognition.

As the genre continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly maintain its place as one of the most influential and intellectually rich art forms in history.