Summary of "Rhyme Schemes in Rap Explained as Simply as Possible"

Summary of “Rhyme Schemes in Rap Explained as Simply as Possible”

This video provides a clear and practical explanation of rhyme schemes in rap music, focusing on how to structure rhymes rhythmically within bars and beats. It emphasizes the importance of understanding rhyme placement as the foundation for writing flexible and creative rap lyrics.

Main Ideas and Concepts

Definition of Rhyme Scheme A rhyme scheme determines on which beat within a bar a rhyme is placed. It acts as a structural blueprint for lyric writing.
Basic Example – Couplet with 4/4 Rhyme Scheme
- A couplet consists of two bars.
- Rhymes are placed on the 4th beat of each bar (e.g., “paper” and “Undertaker”).
- This is called a “4/4 rhyme scheme,” indicating rhymes fall on the fourth beat of both bars.
More Complex Example – 2/4/4 Rhyme Scheme
- First bar has rhymes on the 2nd and 4th beats.
- Second bar has a rhyme on the 4th beat.
- Example words: “balance” (2nd beat), “malice” (4th beat), “palace” (4th beat of second bar).
Importance of Learning Fixed Rhyme Schemes
- Mastering fixed rhyme schemes is essential before moving to more flexible and creative rhyme writing.
- They provide the technical foundation for free-form rapping.
Example of 3/1/4 Rhyme Scheme
- Rhymes are placed on the 3rd beat of the first bar, 1st beat of the second bar, and 4th beat of the second bar.
- Writing process:
  1. Choose rhyme words from the same rhyme tree.
  2. Format lyrics so rhymes fall on the designated beats.
  3. Connect rhyme words with filler words without worrying about content initially.
Adding Variation to Rhyme Schemes
- Start rapping after different beats (1st, 2nd, 3rd, or 4th) to create rhythmic diversity.
- Use pauses (referred to as “PRS” or rests) anywhere in the rhyme scheme to change the flow and vibe.
- These techniques keep listeners engaged and add dynamic interest.
Rhyme Schemes as Structural “Skeleton”
- They form the backbone of rap lyrics, guiding flow and melody.
- Lyrics should be written by first creating the rhyme scheme (the skeleton), then filling it with meaningful content.
Schematic Writing Process (Example Provided)
1. Play the beat and listen carefully.
2. Identify where rhymes (or rests) would fit rhythmically.
3. Decide on a theme aligned with the instrumental (e.g., confident individuality).
4. Write sentences that fit the rhyme scheme and theme.
5. Format lyrics so rhymes land on the predetermined beats.
Encouragement for Practice
- Try writing couplets with various rhyme schemes using the same or multiple rhyme trees.
- The next lesson will cover “double rhyming,” a technique involving multiple rhyme trees.

Methodology / Instructions for Writing Rhymes Using Rhyme Schemes

Understand the Beat Structure
- Identify beats within each bar (usually 4 beats per bar).
- Determine on which beats rhymes will fall (e.g., 4/4, 2/4/4, 3/1/4).
Select Rhyme Words
- Choose words from the same rhyme tree (words that rhyme with each other).
Write and Format Lyrics
- Construct sentences so that the rhyme words fall exactly on the chosen beats.
- Use filler words to connect rhymes smoothly.
Experiment with Starting Points
- Try beginning your rhyme after different beats to create variation.
Incorporate Pauses (Rests)
- Add rests to break up flow and add rhythmic interest.
Build the Skeleton First
- Create the rhyme scheme pattern (the skeleton) before adding meaningful content.
Align Theme with Instrumental
- Choose a theme that fits the mood of the beat.
Practice Writing Different Schemes
- Write couplets using various rhyme schemes and rhyme trees.
- Experiment with complexity before moving on to advanced techniques like double rhyming.

Speakers / Sources Featured

Primary Speaker The video’s narrator/host (unnamed) who explains rhyme schemes and demonstrates examples throughout the video.
Instrumental / Background Music Used to illustrate rhyme placement and flow, but no specific artist or source is named.

This summary captures the key instructional content and concepts presented in the video for understanding and applying rhyme schemes in rap.