When rap came out 30 years ago I thought it was just a fad

Exactly  calvinj--I don't happen to think rap is music.  So, by your definition, it's not.  You're right, case closed!  Thanks, Bro'!

1. I like The Roots, talented bunch of guys IMO.
2. Although I abhorred Rap initially some of it has
evolved into something I can listen to occasionally.
3. I'll try to be more negative next time.

The Roots are a very talented band; I'd never include them in the category of today's Rap.
They have their roots (pun intended) from Jazz, Soul, R&B, old school Rap/Hip-Hop, Rock with some multi-cultural genres thrown in.

I think the roots would make a great funk band. I hate when they do rap songs!

Agree, taters. I've seen them play here in Philly (their home town), and it's Funk/Jazz fusion.
The rapping is part of the dumbing down of music for the younger generation.