Review of "Lean wit It, Rock wit It" by Dem Franchize Boyz

"Lean wit It, Rock wit It" by Atlanta, Georgia's Dem Franchise Boyz is credited with bringing them mainstream attention and launching snap music into the national spotlight. Reaching #1 on the Billboard Hot Rap Tracks chart and the Billboard Rhythmic Airplay charts in the United States, the song is one of Dem Franchise Boyz's most recognisable hits.

Positive points

The simplicity of "Lean wit It, Rock wit It" and its similarity to its forebears in the crunk genre make it an instant club favorite. The chorus of the song mixed with the snaps in the beat encourage groups to dance with similar moves without having to rehearse or choreograph. The infectiously simple beat can easily get stuck in a listener's head, and the lyrics fit well with the outgoing club lifestyle presented in the song itself.

Negative points

"Lean wit It, Rock wit It" is subject to criticisms of most mainstream rappers in that the content of the song only promotes self-glorification and a party lifestyle. Hip hop fans who prefer backing instruments or sample-heavy beats will find that the minimal nature of snap music in general does not lend itself well to these tastes, offering little more than simple repetition. Since 2006 and 2007, snap music has declined sharply in popularity, and so "Lean wit It, Rock wit It" can be considered merely part of a passing fad with no longevity relative to other hit singles of the time. Like several other mainstream rap songs, many might complain that this song follows in the trend of only discussing dancing, partying, clubbing, women, and drugs, and offers little to none on repeat listens.

Verdict

If you're just looking for something to dance to, or background music while you go out and party, Dem Franchise Boyz's "Lean wit It, Rock wit It" is pretty much par for the course. It stays at a BPM that matches well with similar songs of the era and genre, and doesn't impose itself on the listener. That being said, it offers absolutely nothing to take away, makes no emotional or intellectual impact, and is just as forgettable as so many other slickly-produced pop hits. Outside of the club, "Lean wit It, Rock wit It" doesn't need to be listened to, and is better off left behind after a long night of clubbing.