21 Savage and Fivio foreign Clash Over Hip Hop’s Evolving Relationship wiht “The Streets”
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A heated exchange between Grammy Award-winning rapper 21 Savage and fellow artist Fivio Foreign has ignited a broader conversation about generational shifts in Hip Hop and the complex relationship between artists and their pasts. The dispute,stemming from 21 Savage’s advocacy for leaving behind a life of street violence,underscores a growing debate about loyalty,trauma,and the pursuit of success within the genre.
The Spark: Questioning Street Credibility
The conflict began after Fivio Foreign questioned 21 Savage’s authenticity during an appearance on DJ Akademiks’ “Off The Record” podcast. The Brooklyn native reportedly challenged whether Savage was a genuine product of “the streets,” prompting a swift and forceful response from the “No heart” rapper. On January 23, Savage addressed the comments directly via an Instagram Live session, demanding Fivio cease mentioning his name.
“If your a 35 or older, and you been trying to rap since you was Goddn 17, 16, 15, don’t say nothing to me ’bout the streets. You don’t know nothing about the streets, you ain’t did nothing in the streets,” Savage stated, according to reports. he further accused fivio of seeking relevance through the controversy, adding, “Nga old as hell. Poor as a motherfker. Talking about who a street nga in another state.”
Fivio Foreign quickly retaliated, posting a defiant message on his instagram Stories: “I said what I said. No back and forth [with] a nga who said, ‘F the streets.’ [That] nga a bch. Eat a dk, psy,” alongside a direct mention of Savage’s account.
“Fk the Streets”: A Movement Takes Shape
21 Savage’s stance against glorifying street life gained prominence during the rollout of his project, WHAT HAPPENED TO THE STREETS?. The rapper initially voiced his outlook while attempting to mediate issues between Young Thug and Gunna, tweeting, “Fk the streets. We ain’t get st but trauma from that st.” This message resonated with some artists, including G Herbo and Meek Mill, who publicly voiced their support.
Though, the sentiment was not universally embraced. Rappers like 6ix9ine and HoneyKomb Brazy publicly opposed Savage’s message, highlighting the enduring appeal of street narratives within certain corners of the Hip Hop community.
A Generational Divide
The clash between 21 Savage and Fivio Foreign reflects a broader generational shift in Hip Hop. older generations often view street credibility as a foundational element of authenticity, while younger artists are increasingly willing to openly discuss the trauma and limitations associated with that lifestyle.
This evolving perspective suggests a growing desire to move beyond the traditional narratives of violence and hardship, and to prioritize mental health and personal growth. The debate raises critically important questions about the responsibility of artists to their communities, and the potential for Hip Hop to serve as a catalyst for positive change.
the exchange between Savage and F
