The United States’ captain at this year’s World Cup is more than just an attacking threat and leader of a resilient American side–he’s also a rap artist with an album due for release in the near future. The pre-release track exudes an aura of throwback rap and hip hop circa the late 1990s and early 2000s, featuring an all-Texas lineup of Deuce, XO, and Big Hawk. The beat has a nice feel to it, but ultimately is lyrically sub par. In the words of a friend of mine, “He sounds like a typical white guy rapper.” If you want an example listen to anything by Yelawolf on YouTube. Still, the track has US national team fans buzzing about the impending release, setting the stage for what may be decent reception for Deuce.
Indeed, the timing of the releases and the lyrical content ensure that if anything, the World Cup will increase exposure for Deuce‘s debut when interest in the United States’ soccer program is at its peak. More importantly for soccer in the United States, this track represents an attempt by one of the most famous and visible American soccer players to embed soccer in American culture. Throughout his music video (embedded below) are images of soccer players, whether they be Clint Dempsey juggling a ball in the intro and through the chorus, or a match happening in the background. Hip hop and rap represent the nucleus of American musical culture in the modern day, and seeing images of soccer rather than football or basketball represents an attempt by soccer to make inroads in that culture.
If soccer is to continue its rise in the American psyche, it must begin to make its presence felt in more than just matches. When the media begin to notice the sport, the American public follow suit. The same can be said for Major League Soccer, which must compete with the likes of the National Basketball Association and National Football League for viewers and fans. As corny as this music release may seem, it could serve an important role in elevating soccer to a higher level in the American consciousness; at minimum, it is a big first step.
Take a listen and tell us what you think…
[youtube id=”Lq_x38awHg4″ width=”620″ height=”360″]
Also take a listen to Deuce’s first release, “Don’t Tread”.
[youtube id=”K6Di8QT98Zk” width=”620″ height=”360″]
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