Freestyle is a style of hip hop music where an artist normally improvises an unwritten verse from the head, with or without instrumental beats, in which lyrics are recited with no particular subject or structure.
Freestyle originally was simply verse that is free of style, written rhymes that do not follow a specific subject matter, or predetermined cadence.
[19] To prove that a freestyle is being made up on the spot (as opposed to something pre-written or memorized), rappers will often refer to places and objects in their immediate setting, or will take suggestions on what to rhyme about.
Many artists base their freestyle on their current situation or mental state, but have a ready supply of prepared lyrics and rhyme patterns they can use as filler.
[21] In a freestyle battle, each competitor's goal is to "diss" their opponent through clever lyrics and wordplay, with heavy emphasis being placed upon the rapper's improvisational ability.
It is considered dishonorable or shameful to recite pre-written or memorized raps during a freestyle battle, because it shows the rapper to be incapable of "spitting" spur-of-the-moment lyrics.
Appointed judges may be used in formal contests, but in most cases, the rapper who receives the largest audience response is viewed as the victor.
[22] These groups also serve as a way for messages about Hip Hop styles and knowledge to be spread, through word-of-mouth and encouraging trends in other battles.
[23] On May 6, 2020, American rapper and slam poet George Watsky, best known for his rapid delivery, set the world record for longest freestyle at 33 hours, 33 minutes and 19 seconds.