I am not a big fan of rap, but I do find something intriguing, even very likeable, about some rap artists. Take Snoop Dogg, big time rapper, who coaches kids' football.  Or, Lil' Kim.  I loved her on "Dancing With the Stars".  I had one opinion of her following her arrest.  Then she danced her way into our living rooms and I had a new found affection for her.  And now, Eminem is back, after some rough years.  I watched a couple of his recent TV interviews and I am impressed with his honesty.  He has always received praise for his writing, although his raps are not without controversy. Eminem admits he is an addict, but adds he has been sober just over a year now.  He also says he "can't sing" and the real reason some pop culture figures are criticized in his raps; their names rhyme with other words.  Who knew? 

Sadly, a young rapper was shot and killed last week at the Beverly Center in Los Angeles.  Dolla just 21.  It was big news in LA, but more for where the shooting took place, than who was killed.  Will his death bring his more fame in the rap world than his short life?  Perhaps.  How tragic we will never know his true potential as an artist or a man.