Rap battles strut talents at Apache Cafe

Adrenaline comes in many forms. Some like illegal behavior, some like car chases, and some just like to rhyme at breakneck speed with amazing accuracy and genius poetics. For those who have seen the rap battle scene from the movie 8 Mile, you know what I’m talking about.

If you’re interested in seeing this sort of rush first-hand head to the Apache Cafe every Tuesday night. Dres Tha Beatnik is host for the evening, regulating the four rap battles that culminate in a final tournament. Dres is backed by a band that forms a certain beat, and then the challenge is posed for two individuals to take the stage.

Dres then offers the microphone to the contestants, letting them decide who goes first. Usually, one steps up immediately.

What ensues is a free-for-all insult contest, often including in-your-face graphic language and even subtle and not-so-subtle shrugs and spitting. The constant puns are incredibly striking, even more so when you take into consideration how quickly they are concocted. The crowd picks the winner via their cheering. Even the strength to get on stage is admirable, however, and a certain mutual respect is demonstrated by a quick hug between opponents prior to their battle.

Before and between the battles, I had the chance to speak to a couple of the winners. KEL, an acronym for “Knowledge, Energy, Life,” explained that he has been emceeing for the past eight years. His goal, however, is an incredibly unselfish one. He hopes to unify the Atlanta emcee culture, to introduce a sense of mutual respect and working together. This seems like a very appropriate goal, as there is undeniable tension at such events.