Creative Genius
I often think about what makes good art. What makes a piece of art in any form better than others. What are the experiences of those who create this art that allow them to produce it.
One of the best rapper's ever is arguably the Genius from the Wu-tang clan. I was just trying to decide what makes him better than most. His lyrical content is very colurful and intelligent, his delivery and flow are nimble and compelling. There are many good rappers and it there is an amount of personal preference if you like him or not. I have this feeling that even taking into account personal preference, some art is just better than others. I think it comes down to the little details, that is what sets certain art apart from others of that genre or style. Other factors to take into account are timing, influence and originality. The Genius has the originality and started in a strong period for rap music. I think what sets him a part is the small things he does with the delivery and word play that are more advanced than others of his time.
This got me to thinking of Stewart Copeland of the Police. Many consider him to be one of the better drummers ever, if not one of the most original. He has a very unique style of drumming that many have tried to copy. For a drummer it comes down to the details as well. Its the ability to control exactly how hard you are going to hit the drum or cymbol at the right time. I'm no expert on drums, but I do notice that its about not only hitting very hard, but even more so about the delicate precision. Not only does Copeland have the uncommon and original style, its the little details that set him a part.
There are many good artists, but what makes some really great and influential. I think its possible for many people if they try hard enough to learn the skill to create the art, play the music well, what ever the form. But what sets some a part is this extra something where they can originate and put themselves ahead of the rest. I think this comes down partially to several factors including raw talent, life experience and how the person is affected by them, and sheer will to see this talent out to its full potential. I think one of the true tests if something is really great is that it is still compelling years, decades or centuries later.
The Police have stood up well 25+ years so far. I think the Genius' status has increased the 12+ years since he has been out. But how long will it matter. Its hard to deny the genius of Mozart. His work stands up 200+ years after he created it. Maybe the Police or The Genius have no chance of being as great. Its hard to compare, but I think its interesting to think of what Stewart Copeland, The Genius and Mozart all went through to produce "great art". Something about them gave them the ability to originate in their time. I tend to feel a lot of this has to do with the fact that some people are just "geniuses" and are able to focus this power into something amazing and capture it in time through their art. I find this fascinating.