5 Classic Rock Artist That Tried Rap

The marriage of rock and rap has produced some unforgettable musical moments, thanks to pioneers like Run DMC breaking down barriers with their groundbreaking hit, ‘Rock Box.’ As hip-hop gained momentum, it wasn’t long before rock icons decided to try their hand at rapping. Here, we explore five classic rock artists who dared to step into the rap arena, each bringing their unique flair to the genre.

While not all classic rock artists successfully navigated the world of rap, their forays into the genre provided unique glimpses into the evolving landscape of music. Whether pushing boundaries or faltering in unfamiliar territory, these rock legends demonstrated the enduring power of artistic exploration, leaving an intriguing legacy at the intersection of rock and rap.

Blondie (Debbie Harry) – ‘Rapture’

Blondie’s Debbie Harry, inspired by the burgeoning hip-hop scene in South Bronx, gave us ‘Rapture,’ often dubbed the first rap song on MTV. However, whether her off-beat spoken word verse qualifies as rap is up for debate. While not a traditional rap, ‘Rapture’ certainly left an indelible mark on the evolving relationship between rock and hip-hop.

Bob Dylan – Embracing Rap in Memoirs

Bob Dylan, an unexpected fan of rap, acknowledged the genre’s poetic depth through artists like Ice T, Public Enemy, and NWA. His memoir reflects a surprising appreciation for rap as a form of storytelling and social commentary, bridging the gap between two seemingly disparate worlds.

David Bowie – ‘Shining Star (Makin’ My Love)’

Known for his chameleon-like ability to explore various musical genres, David Bowie once dipped his toe into rap with ‘Shining Star (Makin’ My Love).’ The result? A verse that, rather than shining, highlighted Bowie’s unfamiliarity with the rap game. A curious experiment, but one that remains a lesser-known chapter in Bowie’s vast musical repertoire.

Brian Wilson – ‘Smart Girls’

Brian Wilson’s venture into rap with ‘Smart Girls’ takes an unexpected turn, offering a unique perspective on hip-hop’s treatment of women. While the song may be ahead of its time in addressing gender issues within the genre, it ultimately falls flat with a chaotic blend of Beach Boys samples and cringe-worthy lyrics.

Mick Jagger – ‘Miracle Worker’

Mick Jagger, never one to shy away from experimentation, took a shot at rapping with ‘Miracle Worker’ from his supergroup SuperHeavy. Paired with Damian Marley, Jagger explored the art of “toasting,” a West Indian style of rapping. Despite his admission that it was more challenging than expected, the song’s quirky appeal makes it strangely addictive.