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It’s at times hilarious (“They talking ’bout pray before you eat / Bitch, you eatin’ a dead animal), at other times reprehensible (the bars directed at Will Smith and Jada Pinkett are particularly off-putting). Where to start with “American Tterroristt,” the conspiracy-laden epic by Rochester, N.Y., eccentric RXK Nephew? The nine-minute track isn’t so much a song as it is a screed-a questioning of everything from religion to the racist education system to Benjamin Franklin’s discovery of electricity to Flava Flav’s continued existence. “Thot Shit” is a warning shot, a declaration, a reminder, and a celebration all in one, and it shows the world that she is not to be played with. Megan is a leading face of the Black women empowerment movement in rap and embodies it in every bar she spits. All of this seems to influence this track. It’s been a trying year for Megan, who was reportedly shot by Tory Lanez and faced disgusting vitriol on the internet.
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In a misogynistic industry in which men often claim ownership over women’s bodies, Megan Thee Stallion asserts her agency on “Thot Shit.” She touches on her awards, rapper beefs, and overall disrespect she’s faced in the past year while rapping circles around everyone in the process. Also: Be sure to check out our list of the best albums from the first half of 2021 and this week’s Ringer Music Show, where we break down our favorites.
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These 10 songs, however, were able to hold us down during the first six months of the year. There’s certainly more cause for optimism than there was at this time last year, but we’re still trying to get back to normal.