MC Homeless performs at a benefit
for Anti-Racist Action Oct. 25
at the ECC in Kent.
Photo by Lauren Stahl
By Lauren Stahl
Music is an art form that voices opinions
and current issues on global, national and local levels. Because music is
heard by such a large number of people through radio, television, movies,
concerts, compact-discs and downloads, it is an effective mechanism to
bring about change. Today, thousands of artists are using their talents
and power to spread knowledge and awareness to the billions of listeners out there.
Although there are many different types of music,
hip-hop may be one of the more influential styles today. Like the start of all
great changes, hip-hop was first met with a critical eye from skeptics within
all societies. Parents found the explicit content of many rap songs offensive and
didn't want their children listening to hip-hop music. Despite the efforts
made against hip-hop, its popularity continued to grow among youths because
the songs directly appealed to problems they experienced. With the youth
listening, emcees were able to successfully relay their messages to their
vast audiences through lyrics.
The hip-hop music scene is constantly evolving
and encompasses an expanding variety of people. Underground and local emcees gain
respect and fans in their vicinities with lyrics full of social awareness. Some of
these local emcees are making a name for themselves.
One local emcee, Matt Greenfield, also known as
MC Homeless, explained the reasons behind his use of hip-hop over other types of music
and how his music accomplishes its purposes. For him, hip-hop was an easy choice.
"Hip-hop was the first kind of music I ever listened to,"
he said. "I owned De La Soul and Public Enemy tapes in second grade. For me, hip-hop
allows the most individuality."
MC Homeless believes the problems of
youths will be brought to light in hip-hop music through his lyrics. "One of my main
themes is frustration, whether it be with the government, my life, or the status
quo. It is truly hard to stay sane living in America. People are so isolated from
each other. And on top of that, you have people who still believe Saddam Hussein was
behind the 9/11 tragedy."
Through his music, MC Homeless connects to the world.
"I believe I make music people can relate to. Human beings aren’t that different. I don't
want to be preachy with my music, but if people care to look close enough, the message is
there," he said.
With his talents, he is able to express himself and give
off a note of awareness to the audiences. "We need to change this world before it's too
late," said MC Homeless.
With so much going on in this country, it is hard
to stay informed and be aware of all the problems we are facing. Music, specifically
hip-hop, is one form of self-expression and social awareness people find effective for
bringing about change. MC Homeless is one of the many local emcees using his talents
to enlighten listeners on issues he feels are important.
For more about MC Homeless and his music,
visit his Web site at www.myspace.com/mchomeless