I agree with Mirdath (hardly a surprise there
), but assuredly I recommend checking out the Blue Scholars to the forum in general, particularly those who have stereotypical perceptions of hiphop. They use beautiful and inspiring gospel samples very often, and emphasize introspection, genuine scholarliness, the simple joys of existence, and finding transcendent meaning in the every-day in their (wonderful) rhymes and flow. I think I have heard perhaps one usage of a ‘bleepable’ word in their lyrics ever, and it was assuredly not in any violent or prideful way - they make the, ahem, s-word sound less obscene than when most people here might say ‘poop’. Really, that is a fantastic place to start - there’s nothing not to like! Start with ‘Ordinary Guy’ and ‘Joe Metro’ (easily found on youtube) and be amazed.
After that, yes, Del tha Funkee Homosapien, particularly the album he made with Kid Koala and Dan (the Automator) Nakamura, Deltron 3030 - the entire album. His erudition, imagination, and sense of rather highbrow/hipster humor are irresistible, and uses both classical Baroque and Cyberpunk sensibilities on this particular album. But his other work is delightful too! If it eases your mind, Del is an exceedingly moral person, straight-edge and celibate, occasionally uses a little rough language, but never for show. He’s quite an individual and well worth listening to.
From there, just explore, especially the less-mainstream and uncommercial artists. Particularly interesting is yes, the old classics (Public Enemy, NWA, many many more) with their strong, righteously angry politics and inventiveness for their time, but like most modern music, after that time period, the very best and uncompromising artists had to go underground and stay independent, so it may take some searching around. But, it pays off! There is much beautiful and intellectual material out there, if you seek it!
) – they had their editorial moments but don’t get as graphic as the gangstas did and do.