Raps

Absurd as it may seem, I'm also an occasional rapper.  What started out as a ridiculous hobby has turned into an increasingly involved pursuit.  I began writing and creating simple rap videos as a clever way to invite people to my birthday party.  As the rhymes and videos grew in their intricacy each year, people outside my circle of friends took notice.  I've since been commissioned to write and perform raps for different events and become a freelance mercenary rapper of sorts.  I've had the great pleasure of performing for artists like Jack O'Brien, Judith Light, and Julie Taymor; and at great NYC venues like Ars Nova, 92Y Tribeca, the Hammerstein Ballroom, and Joe's Pub.  

I do not purport to be the next great hip hop star.  But as an admirer of language, poetry, and wit; I strive for "literate rap" that is smart, unexpected, and funny.  

photo by Robert Libetti

photo by Robert Libetti

Audio Recordings

These are audio recordings of various raps I've done for different events.  All lyrics are written and performed entirely by me.

Written and performed live by John Behlmann at the 92Y Tribeca, NYC. for Sonnet Repertory Theater's Annual Gala November, 2012 Honoring Julie Taymor. Track by matthew mattew Remixed from "Circle of Life"

Written and performed live by John Behlmann at the Hammerstein Ballroom, NYC. for MCC Theater's Annual Miscast Gala March 4, 2013 Honoring Judith Light. Track recut from RJD2's "F.H.H."

A rap about Shakespeare. And Jack O'Brien. Written and Performed by John Behlmann For Sonnet Repertory Theater's Gala Honoring Jack O'Brien Recorded Live at Joe's Pub in New York City Nov 2010

A rap about the impending Mayan Apocalypse. And another bigger tragedy. Written and Performed by John Behlmann Recorded Live at Ars Nova in New York City for SLANT Theater Project's "On This Island" Series December 2012

Rap written and performed by John Behlmann For the opening night of "Wild Animals You Should Know" Off-Broadway for MCC Theater Performed live at 49 Grove, NYC October, 2011