Looking for rap insights

[JCLexicon]

I want to expand my music appreciation comfort zone but I'm having a real hard time with rap music. I didn't grow up with it, the extent of my exposure in school was a few Beastie Boys tracks. I have a very hard time understanding the lyrics, even when I look them up I am still at a loss for the meaning. Is rap something you need to grow up around to be able to appreciate it? Anyone know of videos, blogs, etc that might help?