Mots contre maux : le rap sénégalais, entre art du langage et activisme social

More than simply a pun, the title « mots contre mots » express how the linguistic conventions of rap have become symptomatic for profound social changes in the Senegalese society. Starting from the assumption that language plays an important role in the transmission and establishing of culture, I conclude that socio-cultural change, economic and political problems, etc. can be the cause for linguistic change on several levels. Rap, as an art form, has established itself as a tool for identity expression and for social engagement. This paper focuses on how rappers use language creatively, by making use of lexical and stylistic means. As my analysis of lexicalization in the usage of rappers show, rap style has to be included as a factor in text and/or discourse analysis.