You don’t need to read sheet music to be cold. But if you want to level up as an artist, knowing the basics of music theory can help you rap better, write tighter hooks, and work smarter with producers.
What to know:

• Tempo & BPM: Know the vibe you’re setting. 140 hits different than 90.
• Key & Scale: If you’re writing melodies or using Auto-Tune, this matters more than you think.
• Structure: Verses, hooks, bridges — understanding song form makes your music more replayable.
• Cadence & Pocket: Rapping with the beat hits harder than rapping over it.
• Harmony: If you’re experimenting with melodies or backing vocals, basic harmony knowledge goes a long way.

You don’t need a degree to master the mic — but knowing a little theory gives you an edge. Learn the rules so you can break them with purpose.