RE: No socially redeeming value, whatsoever.
OK, here’s an interesting thought — Is it possible to REDEEM rap to make the lyrics more helpful and inspirational?
Take away the references to the urban thug life style, and what are you left with as far as the "musical" value goes? At best, you get Dr. Seuss set to a background beat.
You do know that not all Rap is Gangsta Rap right?
Regardless of words, most rap is still only monotonic chanting, not music. Also, forget the lewd theatrics, hand gestures and materialistic bling - close your eyes and what do you hear?
Music typically has melodies, chords, harmonies, rhythms, dynamics and some kind of structure. Close your eyes, and what do you hear?
Good music will stand the test of time — rap won’t. In 200 years, Beethoven will be remembered, Fiddy Cent won’t.