The Largest Vocabulary in Hip Hop (2017)
6 hours ago
- #hip-hop vocabulary
- #music analysis
- #data visualization
- The analysis includes vocabulary size of 85 rappers based on 35,000 words from albums/EPs/mixtapes, with Aesop Rock having the largest vocabulary.
- Wu-Tang Clan ranks high due to diverse member contributions; GZA, Ghostface, Raekwon, and Method Man also appear in top 20.
- Regional breakdown shows East Coast has highest average vocabulary (4,804 words), while South has lowest (4,268), linked to crunk music style.
- Top artists include less-known names like Kool Keith, Canibus, and CunninLyguists, with E-40 and Outkast noted for slang and portmanteaus.
- Bottom 20% features big names like Lil Wayne, 2Pac, Snoop Dogg, Kanye West, and Drake, with DMX in last place, highlighting vocabulary diversity doesn't equate to success.