Rapping Shales

I was surprised by Tom Shales’ column on MTV’s “Real World” (“MTV’s ‘Real’ Mix Makes for a San Francisco Treat,” TV Times, July 10). He refers to Mohammed as “a rapper who calls himself a musician,” and implores the young man to “GET A JOB.” Tough words from a guy who watches TV for a living.

Doesn’t he realize rap music has been a commanding force for over a decade and good rappers make the kind of money he can only dream about? Given his condescending attitude and limited grasp of modern music, perhaps Shales, not Mohammed, should get a job ... in another line of work.

Mark Davis (Dog), Hollywood