10 things VAR could stand for that would be less annoying than Video Assistant Referee
By Ty Finch
Videotaping A Rap-battle
Battle-rap is an art form. Eminem basically started his career through the industry, eventually growing into one of the biggest hip-hop stars of his generation. However, his success story isn’t the norm. There are quite a few rappers who strictly battle-rap. And every battle-rapper needs someone to tape his rhymes.
Battle-rap contests usually consist of two rappers going one-on-one with each other. Back and forth, each artist flows through his versus against the other until one gives up or the crowd chooses. Battle-rapping is all about taking down your opponent. Names like Calicoe, Loaded Lux and Charlie Clips are legends in doing just that. These battles are the equivalent of Comedy Central’s celebrity roasts in the form of hard-hitting, technical rap verses.
Videotaping these battles is what helped the scene grow as much as it has. Channels of rap league battles around the United States started popping up on Youtube. Ultimate Rap League, King of the Dot and Don’t Flop are three in particular that have gained the most notoriety.
The only thing annoying about a rap-battle is how good the artists are. While not every battle is pure freestyle, each lyricist has to add personal touches about the opposition, often in stream of consciousness. Syllables are broken down and used as weapons. Simple facts about your hairstyle can be used to eviscerate you. The weak-minded need not apply.
The only thing battle-rap has in common with VAR is the video aspect. There are no assistants, no review. It’s all individual and in the moment, and infinitely more fun to watch.