Of course it's still popular. But no, it is not the top anymore. Go check out Billboard regularly for the top. There're currently zero rap songs in the top 10 singles, and one rap album in the top 10 albums. That's a stark difference to the past. Straight-up rap is not at all the "top form of music" anymore. Those days are gone, and forever.

Sales Rainard.

That was one of the most idiotic responses ever Proggyman. Billboard.com is all about sales. That's what he was talking about.

Anyway as far as Jay-Z goes The Blueprint, The Black Album and Reasonable Doubt were all perfectly solid albums. Sure he doesn't compare to Nas (I'm talking strictly Illmatic here) or Ghostface but not many people do.

Its not even that there #1, not debating that, its the fact it is easily one of the top genres in all aspects.

Yah, but he's ignoring the fact that Rap sells. Look at the overall statistics from the past year. Down, yes, doesn't sell, no way.

You guys should listen to Jay-Z's Black Album... the one before the latest... where he said he was gonna retire... it's f*cking amazing! Listen to 99 Problems.. and the lyrics.. its just so good...... thats a kick ass hip hop song.