Rap is a sub-genre of poetry

[robertpallas]

With 1000 poems several modern lyrical masterpieces could be included for versatile experiences with some music. Looking at artists with more poetic styles and less violent language, word-hacks and street slang I would list Aesop Rock, Atmosphere and Sage Francis. Maybe also 2Pac, Immortal Technique, Gangstarr, Mos Def, Talib Kweli, MF-Doom, KRS-One, Common and older works of Nas, though they may not look as good when only read for different reasons. Listing a few songs to consider:

• Aesop Rock- No Regrets
  • http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sClhmDN5Fcs
• Aesop Rock - None Shall Pass
  • layered symbolism with playful delivery
  • http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IkS5rfptd3M
• Sage Francis - The Best Of Times
  • http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIMVrEsYygU
• R.A. the Rugged Man - Uncommon Valor
  • one of the best wordplays, based on authors fathers experiences in Vietnam
  • http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGZsGX3B_BY
  • http://lyriki.com/index.php?title=Jedi_Mind_Tricks:Uncommon_Valor:_A_Vietnam_Story
• Immortal Technique - Dance With the Devil
  • dirty use of words but quite powerful storytelling
  • http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qggxTtnKTMo
  • http://lyriki.com/Immortal_Technique:Dance_With_the_Devil

If the idea is to your liking I will gladly look for more or replace some.

Also, please mix styles and authors, don't have Shakespeare several days in a row.