Original
Rap music, unlike disco or funk, is a new genre unto itself. Disco and funk were variations of an already existing, and therefore familiar, form– rhythm and blues. Rap music, in its purest form, presents an entirely new sound. This is one of the reasons rap music tends to be so misunderstood not only by the general public but also by “ accomplished” music critics-it is completely unfamiliar.” (Salaam , 1995, 306)
Summary
Salaam states that in its purest form, rap music represents an entirely new sound, which is why it’s so misunderstood by expert listeners as well as the general listener. Because it isn’t based on earlier forms of music, it’s completely unfamiliar.