Rapping for Russia

While most people only associate Russian patriotism with the genres of traditional folk music or Soviet-era ballads, the Russian Federal Treasury is looking to change that association for the younger generation. Since rap battles are popular among Russian youth, the treasury plans to hold its own official rap battle this spring.

The purpose of the festival is to increase national pride and "respect for the law" (ironically, two things rap music is generally against). Contestants of this competition will be exclusively federal employees, law enforcement agencies, and students. Unfortunately, residents of correctional facilities will not be able to participate in the event.

Many details about the event are still unclear, but with the cancellation of Eurovision last year, it could well fill a void of entertainment for many Russians. Right now the treasury is simply scouting out potential contestants, but they hope to have the initial round of the competition in May and the final round of the competition in September, to be held at the Tavrida-Art youth festival in Crimea. 

Judges for the competition have not been set, but the treasury hints that they might include some well-known Russian artists. The prize for winners has also not been decided on, but officials reassured the press that participation alone will be a very cool thing and should be reward enough for any individual.