Hip Hop may be waning in the face of too much emphasis on making a statement, too many imitators and wannabes, too much violence and not enough artistic drive to deliver quality. But don't count it dead and out.

Rather, look today to fresh talent with discipline, determination, sense of self, and commitment to craft. Look to Chae Hawk. Here you'll find the soul of a poet embraced by the body of a natural-born entertainer.