Thanks for the post. I think it's refreshing to hear people say this about Tariq, especially his peers in the industry. I don’t normally post, but felt compelled after reading this. I would have to agree that he is not given the credit due to him for his master of cadence, delivery, tonality, breath control etc... On top of that, he has a very unique style of word play that is very consistent. The mainstream fails to see the artistry in his ability to paint pictures using the most complex "techniques", so to speak. They Do Not Care! As an MC, producer, and a peer in the industry, I respect his skill and would consider him an expert at this. Interestingly enough... The Roots have been extremely consistent, setting trend after trend as a Hip Hop band only comparable to Stetsasonic. Always cutting edge and conscious!!!!! It is not easy to be "truly creative" in an industry driven by lust for money and power through the exploitation of the art and culture. Young cats have to understand that this is an art too. In addition, I worked with Donald Byrd as a lyricist and lead vocalist, during a time when he was developing the New BlackByrds. It was my first time performing with a band. Whether on stage or on TV, I quickly learned that performing to a dat tape, etc... is not the same as performing with a full band. And I was blessed to perform with some great musician while working with Byrd. It takes tremendous skill as an MC to do what he has done. The Roots have been doing this since they were kids... On top of that, they traveled almost everyday out of the year, performing show after show. Not Easy. I have to say, Black Thought is holding is own. The Roots are holding their own. It's not easy to demonstrate genius in a world full of mediocrity. The genius of a person is not usually realized until after they die. And the same Hypocrite Naysayer’s will do to Thought, or anyone else, what they are doing JD (Dilla). So, I'm not waiting... Thought is nasty with it and is one of my favorite Lyricists. Always has been. And I'm nasty with mine (smile). So that's respect.

Malik Turner