Big Innovators Get Their Due

Although the Grammys’ rap field was packed with marginal artists and inferior work, the voters managed to spot the jewels: The winners in each of the three rap categories are among the most innovative and exciting talents in the field.

Hard-core rapper Eminem won best rap album for “The Slim Shady LP” and best rap solo performance for “My Name Is,” while the Roots won in the duo or group category for their collaboration with Erykah Badu, “You Got Me.”

Although Eminem’s album was easily the best in the category, his win over Busta Rhymes and Missy “Misdemeanor” Elliott, among others, comes as something of a surprise, considering the relatively squeaky-clean image Rhymes and Elliott maintain. Eminem drew the ire of many critics because of the exaggerated violence and explicit drug references contained in his major-label debut.

The solo performance category was by far the weakest in the rap awards, with Rhymes’ “Gimme Some More” the only worthy competition for Eminem.

The Roots’ victory is something a little different for the genre. Without controversy and without the benefit of a famous lead rapper, the group was recognized for a timeless love song.