Are you an aspiring rapper looking for inspiration on what to write about?
Putting pen to paper and creating fresh, compelling lyrics can be a challenge, even for experienced MCs.
But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore 20 powerful topics you can rap about to take your rhymes to the next level:
- Unpack your personal story and experiences
- Tackle social and political issues
- Flex your skills and brag about your achievements
- Paint vivid pictures and tell engaging stories
So grab your notebook, get in the zone, and let’s dive into these themes that will help you craft unforgettable verses.
Your next hit track is just waiting to be written.
Your Personal Journey
One of the most authentic and relatable things you can rap about is your own life story. Listeners connect with artists who vulnerably share their trials, tribulations, and triumphs. Don’t be afraid to get personal and lay it all out there in your lyrics.
Reflect on the defining moments and challenges that have shaped who you are. Maybe you grew up in a rough neighborhood and had to hustle to survive. Perhaps you’ve battled addiction, heartbreak, or loss. Whatever your story is, own it and express it unapologetically.
When writing about your journey, be as specific and vivid as possible. Paint a picture with your words so the audience can step into your shoes. Use powerful imagery and metaphors to convey the emotions you felt during pivotal experiences. The more raw and real you get, the more your message will resonate.
Social Commentary
Hip-hop has always been a potent vehicle for speaking truth to power and shining a light on injustice. As a rapper, you have a platform to address the pressing issues facing your community and society at large. Don’t shy away from tackling heavy topics in your music.
Police brutality, systemic racism, income inequality, gentrification – these are just a few of the many social ills you could take on in your lyrics. Do your research, educate yourself on the complexities of the issues, and offer your unique perspective. Aim to inform and inspire your listeners to take action.
At the same time, be mindful not to come across as preachy or condescending. The best social commentary is delivered with empathy, nuance, and a call for unity and progress. Use your voice to uplift the marginalized and champion positive change.
Flexing Your Skills
It’s no secret that hip-hop is a competitive art form, and rappers love to boast about their lyrical prowess. Flexing your abilities on the mic is a time-honored tradition that, when done right, can make for some of the most memorable and quotable lines in a song.
Don’t be modest – it’s okay to brag a little! Let the world know that you’re the nicest with the rhymes, that your flow is untouchable, and that you’re a force to be reckoned with. Compare yourself to iconic figures, both inside and outside of hip-hop, to drive home the point.
When you’re flexing, get creative with your wordplay and punchlines. Use clever similes, metaphors, and double entendres to showcase your wit and keep listeners on their toes. The more original and unpredictable your boasts are, the more likely they’ll stick in people’s minds.
Storytelling
At its core, rap is about storytelling. The best MCs can craft vivid, cinematic narratives that transport listeners into another world. Whether you’re spinning a cautionary tale or a rags-to-riches anthem, the key is to make your story as compelling and immersive as possible.
Create rich, three-dimensional characters that your audience can relate to or root for. Give them distinct personalities, motivations, and conflicts to overcome. Use dialogue to bring your story to life and add a layer of realism.
As you plot out your narrative, think about story structure. Every good tale has a beginning, middle, and end. Set the scene, build tension and stakes, throw in some twists, and bring it all to a satisfying conclusion. Keep listeners engaged from the first bar to the last.
Love and Relationships
Love, heartbreak, and the complexities of relationships have inspired countless rap songs over the years. There’s something deeply human about the desire to connect with another person, and exploring that in your music can make for powerful, relatable content.
Rap about the thrill of a new romance, the comfort of a long-term partnership, or the gut-wrenching pain of betrayal. Dig into the nuances of love – the passion, the insecurities, the sacrifices. Don’t be afraid to get vulnerable and share your own experiences.
When writing about relationships, try to avoid clichés and go beyond surface-level observations. Get specific about what makes your bond unique. Use vivid sensory details to capture the little moments that define your connection.
Aspirations and Dreams
We all have dreams and aspirations that drive us forward. Rap about the goals you’re chasing and the legacy you want to leave behind. Paint a picture of your ideal future and what success looks like to you.
Maybe you dream of making it big in the music industry, buying your mom a house, or using your platform to make a difference in the world. Whatever your aspirations are, express them with passion and conviction. Let your listeners feel the hunger in your voice.
When writing about your dreams, don’t be afraid to think big and shoot for the stars. At the same time, be honest about the obstacles and doubts standing in your way. The journey to greatness is never easy, and acknowledging that can make your message more relatable.
Everyday Life
Not every rap needs to be about heavy topics or larger-than-life themes. Sometimes, the most compelling verses are the ones that capture the small details and moments of everyday life. Write about the things you see, feel, and experience regularly.
Maybe it’s the smell of your grandma’s cooking, the sound of rain on your window, or the rush of performing live on stage. Zoom in on the sensory details that make up your world and bring them to life through your lyrics. The more specific and authentic you can be, the more your words will connect.
When writing about the every day, embrace the power of simplicity. You don’t need overly complicated metaphors or ten-dollar words to make an impact. Often, the most profound truths are the ones stated plainly and directly.
Partying and Living It Up
Hip-hop has always been about having a good time and enjoying life to the fullest. Throw on a beat and rap about the joys of partying, hanging with friends, and making the most of every moment. Capture the infectious energy and excitement of letting loose on the dance floor.
Paint a picture of the perfect night out – the pulsing lights, the thumping bass, the laughter and camaraderie of your crew. Make listeners feel like they’re right there with you, living it up and forgetting their troubles for a while.
As you write, think about the different elements that make for an unforgettable party experience. Is it the music, the drinks, the vibe of the crowd? Hone in on the specific details that take it to the next level.
Overcoming Adversity
Life has a way of throwing curveballs and knocking us down. As a rapper, you have the power to inspire and uplift listeners by writing about overcoming adversity. Share stories of the challenges you’ve faced and the strength it took to rise above them.
Maybe you’ve battled poverty, discrimination, self-doubt, or loss. Get real about the lows you’ve experienced and the lessons you learned along the way. Your words could be the encouragement someone needs to keep pushing forward.
When writing about overcoming hardships, strike a balance between acknowledging the pain and celebrating the triumphs. Yes, the struggle is real, but so is the resilience of the human spirit. Emphasize the growth that comes from making it through tough times.
Hometown Pride
Repping your city or hometown is a classic hip-hop trope for good reason – it shows loyalty and love for the place that made you. Put on for your block and let the world know where you’re from!
Paint a vivid picture of your stomping grounds. Shout out to the streets, landmarks, and neighborhood spots that shaped your identity. Make listeners feel like they’re getting an insider’s tour of your turf.
But don’t just brag about your city – get into what makes it special to you. Is it the people, the culture, the hustle? The more specific and authentic your hometown pride is, the more it will resonate with others from your area and beyond.
Money and Success
The pursuit of wealth and success is a common theme in rap music. It’s only natural to want to secure the bag and elevate your lifestyle. Spit some bars about your financial goals and the lavish life you’re working towards.
Flex your entrepreneurial spirit and hustle. Detail the moves you’re making to stack your paper and build your empire. Whether you’re flipping bricks or building a brand, let listeners know you’ve got a master plan.
Just be mindful not to glorify materialism over everything else. Yes, getting money is important, but so is being smart and strategic with it. Drop some gems about financial literacy and investing in your future.
Self-Love and Confidence
In a world that’s always trying to tear us down, self-love and confidence are revolutionary acts. Use your music to promote a message of radical self-acceptance and empowerment. Let listeners know that they are worthy, valuable, and capable of greatness.
Rap about your journey to loving yourself – flaws and all. Share the affirmations and mantras that keep you going when doubt creeps in. Encourage others to celebrate their unique qualities and block out the haters.
As you write, be careful not to veer into arrogance or put others down to lift yourself. True confidence comes from within and doesn’t need to diminish anyone else. Keep it positive and focus on building yourself and others up.
Fake Friends and Haters
The rap game, like life, is filled with snakes and fakes. It’s a common theme for MCs to call out the phonies and backstabbers trying to ride their wave. Put the spotlight on the jealous haters who want to see you fail.
Expose the telltale signs of a fake friend – the shady behavior, the fair-weather loyalty, the clout-chasing ways. Warn others to watch out for the vultures who only come around when you’re hot.
When venting about your haters, be clever and witty with your disses. The best clapbacks are the ones that cut deep without being crude or low-brow. Aim for punchlines that will make listeners go “ooh!” and hit replay.
Leveling Up and Glowing Up
Everybody loves a good come-up story. Rap about your glow-up and the moves you’re making to level up in life. Detail your journey from the bottom to the top and the lessons you’ve learned along the way.
Reflect on who you were then versus who you are now. What mindset shifts and habits helped you transform into a better version of yourself? Inspire others by showing them change is possible with hard work and determination.
As you chronicle your growth, don’t exaggerate or lie about your achievements. Keep it real and relatable. Celebrate your wins, but also keep hustling towards the next milestone. Let ’em know you’re just getting started!
Enjoying Simple Pleasures
During the daily grind, it’s important to appreciate the simple pleasures that make life worth living. Rap about the little things that bring you joy and peace amidst the chaos.
Maybe it’s rolling up and vibing to your favorite record. Perhaps it’s the taste of an ice-cold beer after a long day or the warmth of the sun on your skin. Whatever your simple pleasures are, bring them to life through your lyrics.
The key here is authenticity and relatability. Avoid cliches and get specific about what brings you happiness. The more honest you are, the more your words will connect with listeners seeking their moments of bliss.
Faith and Spirituality
For many rappers, faith is a cornerstone of their lives and identities. Don’t be afraid to rap about your spiritual journey and the role that a higher power plays in guiding your path.
Get personal about your relationship with God or the universe. How does your faith inspire and sustain you through life’s ups and downs? What lessons and wisdom have you gained from your spiritual practice?
When writing about religion, be mindful and respectful of diverse beliefs. Focus on your own experiences rather than preaching or passing judgment on others. The goal is to share your truth, not convert anyone.
Nostalgia and Reminiscing
There’s a certain magic in looking back on the good old days. Rap about your fondest childhood memories, the friends you grew up with, the music that shaped you. Take a trip down memory lane and bring listeners along for the ride.
Reminisce on the fashion, slang, and cultural touchstones of your youth. What made that era special and unique? How does it compare to the present day? Capture the bittersweet longing that nostalgia evokes.
As you write, use specific details to paint a vivid picture. The more sensory and precise your descriptions, the more listeners will feel transported to that time and place. ’90s babies, let them know what they missed!
Work and Hustle
For many, the daily grind is a reality that can’t be escaped. Rap about the struggles and triumphs of working hard to make ends meet. Whether you’re clocking in at a 9-to-5 or hustling in the streets, speak to the universal experiences of labor and ambition.
Get into the nitty-gritty details of your job or hustle. What drives you to keep pushing even when you’re exhausted? How does it feel to finally cash that paycheck or secure that bag? Make listeners feel the blood, sweat and tears you put in.
When writing about work, strike a balance between venting frustrations and finding the silver linings. Yes, the struggle is real, but there’s also pride and purpose in honest labor. Encourage others to keep striving for their goals, no matter how distant they may seem.
Mental Health and Wellness
In recent years, rap has become a powerful medium for addressing mental health issues and promoting wellness. Use your platform to break the stigma around topics like depression, anxiety, and addiction. Let listeners know they’re not alone in their struggles.
Get candid about your mental health journey. What coping strategies and support systems have helped you through dark times? How do you practice self-care and stay centered in a chaotic world? Your words could be the lifeline someone needs.
When broaching sensitive subjects, do so with empathy and care. Avoid glorifying or graphic depictions of self-harm. Instead, focus on the hope and resilience that can be found even in the depths of pain. Provide resources and encourage listeners to seek help if needed.
Family and Fatherhood
For many rappers, family is everything. Craft verses that pay homage to the loved ones who have shaped you – be it your parents, siblings, children, or chosen kin. Express the depths of your love and loyalty to the ones you hold dearest.
Fatherhood, in particular, has been a rich theme as of late, with MCs like J. Cole and Chance the Rapper penning heartfelt odes to their kids. Rap about the joys and challenges of raising a child, the lessons you hope to impart, and the legacy you want to leave.
When writing about family, don’t feel pressure to portray a perfect picture. Every clan has its quirks and conflicts. Be real about the complexities of your relationships while still honoring the unbreakable bonds of blood and love.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the art of rap is about fearless self-expression. No matter what you choose to write about, do so with authenticity, artistry, and audacity.
Dig deep within yourself and let your unique voice shine through.
The artists we remember are the ones who pushed boundaries, took risks, and told unapologetic truths.
So be bold in your creative choices. Defy expectations and conventions. Rap about the things that set your soul on fire.
Your story has the power to move hearts and minds, change lives, and shape cultures.
Don’t waste a single bar.
Make every word count.
The world needs your voice, your vision, your verse.
So grab the mic and speak your destiny into existence.
The legacy you leave starts now.