If trading verses with someone is at hip-hop music's core, then exchanging bars within a verse runs even deeper. It was much more of a staple in classic hip-hop, however, there were many golden era collectives that employed the rhyme scheme as well. It was something that separated regular groups from more lyrical outfits.
This precise, synchronized banter something that I don't see happen as much for some reason. I have always been impressed with rappers who through collaborative writing, deft skill and strong chemistry, are able to literally trade bars within the same verse.
That said, Ghost and Rae's lock-step chemistry is on full display on "The M.G.M." from Wu-Tang Forever. The setting for this back-and-forth fisticuffs is a boxing match at the the MGM Grand Casino. The two MCs effortlessly bob and weave in and out of the True Master track, seamlessly transitioning from the social scene to the details of the fight.
Yo keep ya eye on that same nigga from right her"
While their love for the fight game has been evidenced through other songs, what had not been was their sociopolitical sports history knowledge.
"Tenth round Chavez tearin em down
Sweet Pea get ya shit off
It's like blacks against the Germans
Gettin hit off"
The second boxing match between German, Max Schmeling and black American, Joe Louis was a historic event. Set to the backdrop of the Great Depression, Nazi Germany/U.S. relations and racism against blacks this bout was dripping with national, racial and political undertones.
