Watch Live
Watch
Sound Field
Watch Episode

The Art of Diss: The History of Battle Rap

Season 4 Episode 2

Explore the rich history of battle rap and the birth of the Ultimate Rap League (URL).

Explore the rich history of battle rap and the birth of the Ultimate Rap League (URL). Smack White, the founder of URL, shares his journey and vision for the league, while DNA and Arsonal, two of the most respected and talented battle rappers in the game, give us a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to succeed in this highly competitive art form.

AIR DATE 2/23/23

Sound Field

WANTED: PBS Sound Field Guest Host

Sound Field is a music education series that explores the music theory, production, history and culture behind our favorite songs and musical styles. Pop, classical, rap, jazz, electronic music, folk, country and indigenous music — we’ll cover it all and highlight the connections between genres. www.youtube.com/@soundfieldpbs

We are looking for musicians with on-camera experience to guest host an episode of Sound Field.

Apply Now

Videos

  • How Beatboxers Turn Their Mouth into an Orchestra
    S4 E6
    How Beatboxers Turn Their Mouth into an Orchestra
  • What Do They Mean When They Call Hip Hop “Alternative”?
    S4 E5
    What Do They Mean When They Call Hip Hop “Alternative”?
  • Why Have So Many Countries Adopted Drill Rap?
    S4 E4
    Why Have So Many Countries Adopted Drill Rap?
  • How Did Ms. Lauryn Hill Redefine Hip Hop and R&B?
    S4 E3
    How Did Ms. Lauryn Hill Redefine Hip Hop and R&B?
  • The Art of Diss: The History of Battle Rap
    S4 E2
    Now Playing
    The Art of Diss: The History of Battle Rap
  • How One Drum Beat Changed Hip Hop Forever
    S4 E1
    How One Drum Beat Changed Hip Hop Forever

    • Watch even more of your favorite PBS and TPT shows online.

    Learn More
    About Sound Field

    Sound Field is a music education series that explores the music theory, production, history and culture behind our favorite songs and musical styles. Pop, classical, rap, jazz, electronic music, folk, country and indigenous music — we’ll cover it all and highlight the connections between genres. Hosted by accomplished musicians and music teachers Arthur “LA” Buckner, Linda Diaz and Nahre Sol each episode will be a unique combination of musical performance and video essay explainers.

    Broadcast Dates
    This show is not scheduled to air soon.
    Other Shows You May Like
    See All Shows
    • In Performance at the White House
    • Quietest Place On Earth
    • Curious Traveler
    • Pacific Heartbeat
    • Patsy Cline: American Masters
    • Growing A Greener World
    See All Shows
    Watch Your Shows Many Ways

    Click over to tpt.org/shows to watch your favorite TPT productions and PBS shows, anytime and anywhere.

    Not only will this site work on your laptop or desktop computer, you'll also feel right at home on any modern smartphone or tablet. Stream away...

    Other Ways to Watch
    Twin Cities PBS

    © 2025 Twin Cities Public Television

    Top
    To Top