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Hip Hop

Hip hop emerged during the 1970s in the Bronx, New York City. However, it is more than just a music genre; hip hop is a cultural movement characterized by its four main elements: DJing, MCing, Breaking, and Graffiti. The history of hip-hop is extensive, yet relatively new when compared to other music categories. It all began at a party on August 11, 1973, often referred to as the birth of hip-hop (Curry and Smith). Now, 50 years later, we commemorate the anniversary of hip-hop. In light of this recent celebration, there is a pertinent opportunity to examine the impact of Hip Hop on the world, considering its history and distinctive characteristics.

Origins

Hip Hop is a culture that originated predominantly in African American and Latinx communities during the 1970s, and it has since achieved a worldwide reach. The birthplace of Hip Hop, often attributed to the Bronx in New York City, holds a distinctive significance. The Bronx, as one of the five boroughs of New York City, is deeply rooted in an immigrant community (Lankevich).

Following an influx of immigrant populations in the 1960s, the Bronx, once favored by high-status politicians, experienced a significant decline. It became plagued by issues such as drugs, poverty, and gang activity, leading to a noticeable deterioration in both the quality of life and the infrastructure. The demographic composition shifted, with approximately 55% Hispanic, 29% African American, and 9% white, reflecting how the minority became the majority in this context (Lankevich).

Despite these challenges, the Bronx's association with the birth of Hip Hop underscores its role as a resilient and culturally influential epicenter. As the genre gained momentum, it provided an outlet for artistic expression and empowerment within a community grappling with adversity. This cultural movement helped transform not only the Bronx but also the global landscape of music, art, and social activism.

Founder

Clive Campbell, also known by his stage name DJ Kool Herc, is credited with laying the foundation for a billion-dollar global empire—none other than Hip Hop itself (Curry and Smith). Campbell, a young Jamaican immigrant, earned his stage name not due to his imposing physique, but his ever-present collection of record discs that he had on hand. Referred to as "Hercules" by those around him, his constant companionship with vinyl records led to the moniker he would become known by ("DJ Kool Herc's Turntables").

Campbell etched his name in history when he made music for a back-to-school celebration held in a Bronx apartment, organized by his younger sister. This block party was hosted in order to raise money to buy new school clothes ("DJ Kool Herc's Turntables"). What seemed like an ordinary event, actually marked the birth of a cultural phenomenon that would transcend time and boundaries.

In collaboration with other pioneers of the Hip Hop movement, Campbell swung open the doors of opportunity for generations to come. His innovation arrived during an era dominated by Disco music, and its emergence was met with skepticism, with many believing it to be a fleeting fad destined to fade into obscurity. Yet, Hip Hop emerged as a timely and transformative force, filling a void in the lives of Bronx youth who lacked access to basic sports programs. In a landscape plagued by gang violence and limited recreational outlets, Hip Hop offered an alternative path—one fueled by creativity, self-expression, and unity (Curry and Smith).

Foundations

DJing

Disc jockeying, also known as DJing, is a significant component of Hip Hop culture. DJs use various methods to craft a vibrant soundscape that encourages movement and lively dancing. DJing is characterized by its focus on drums and bass, which play a central role in the art form. Adding on, an integral pillar of Hip Hop, DJing involves a standard turntable that enables smooth transitions between songs, mixing, breaking, or creating unique musical blends. This equipment typically includes an amplifier, receiver, and speakers (Harris et al. 6). It's worth noting that within the Hip Hop community, traditionalists prefer DJs who avoid relying solely on pre-programmed playlists.

While DJs once primarily played music, techniques like "breaking" introduced creative freedom and expanded musical possibilities through manipulation. Furthremore, Clive Campbell's use of the turntable revolutionized musicians' perspective on technology, motivating producers to create fresh music by incorporating samples from older songs.

One distinctive DJing technique is scratching, pioneered by Grand Wizzard Theodore in the 1970s. Scratching involves manipulating the record beneath the needle. Important terms to understand include "sampling," which involves incorporating sections of one song into another, and "back spinning," where a DJ quickly rewinds a recording segment on the turntable (McCollum).

MCing

Synonymous with "rapping," MCing is an essential element of Hip Hop culture. Despite a common misconception that Hip Hop is solely represented by rap due to mainstream media and industry figures like Nicki Minaj, Jay-Z, and Kanye West dominating discussions on hip hop studies, MCing remains a crucial and distinctive component.

Emcees are individuals who skillfully harness rhythm, flow, wordplay, and rhyme to construct a performative auditory landscape. Within these soundscapes, they weave narratives that reflect their intended messages. MCing extends beyond mere music production, encompassing practices like battle rap and freestyling (Harris et al. 6).

A prime example of an MC who intertwines stories with music is 2Pac. In Leah Tonnette Gaines's article titled "This Ain't Just a Rap Song: 2Pac, Sociopolitical Realities, and Hip Hop Nation Language," he is highlighted as an artist who used his music as a medium for storytelling (Harris et al. 6). Tracks such as "Brenda’s Got A Baby," "Changes," and "Dear Mama" by 2Pac reverberate with profound impact and insight, underscoring the importance of MCing beyond its musical facets.

Breaking

Breaking, also known as breakdancing, is a dynamic dance form characterized by terms such as B-boying and B-girling. It originated when individuals, inspired by the musical breaks selected by DJs, began moving their bodies in rhythm with the music. The term "breakdancing" was coined by the media during the early days of Hip Hop to describe B-boying and B-girling (Harris et al. 6).

As the influence of Hip Hop has expanded globally, so too has the popularity of breakdancing. A great example of this growth is evident in the 2019 petition advocating for the inclusion of four new sports, one of which included breakdancing in the 2024 Olympics. Breakdancers like Mounir Biba from France highlighted the intricacies of breakdancing as a dance sport, even stating that world-renowned soccer player Cristiano Ronaldo wouldn't be able to handle the challenges of breakdancing (Bieler).

Although breakdancing ultimately did not become an official Olympic sport, this development underscores the remarkable reach of Hip Hop culture and its ability to bridge cultural divides. What began in the neighborhoods of the Bronx, New York, has now extended to global stages like the Olympics and nations such as France, demonstrating the profound expansion of Hip Hop's influence.

Graffiti

Graffiti has a rich history spanning centuries, showcasing diverse forms of artistic expression. Ancient examples include the cave paintings in Lascaux Montignac, France, and street art in Pompeii, Rome, both early instances of graffiti. Moving into the 1910s, "Hobo Graffiti" emerged among migrant workers, while Latin gangs like The Choulos and Bachutos showcased elaborate tags and paintings. Even during World War II, the "Kilroy Was Here" tag by James J. Kilroy was marked on inspected warships, and in Munich, Germany, the White Rose, a nonviolent student group, employed graffiti to protest the Nazi regime (Degand 239).

By the 1970s, figures like Darely "Cornbread" McCray, a 12-year graffiti artist, emerged. Also, during the 1960s and 70s saw extensive graffiti on New York City's subways, as artists used this outlet to convey their art and messages throughout the city's five boroughs (Degand 239). This period marked a significant phase in graffiti's evolution and its emergence as a distinctive art form.

Culture

As previously mentioned, black and brown Americans play a significant role in Hip Hop culture.

Authenticity holds a crucial place in the heart of Hip Hop. It's about conveying a level of truth and genuineness that MCs (Master of Ceremonies) need to connect deeply with their audience (Eason 1255-80). When Hip Hop originated in the South Bronx, an area marked by poverty, gangs, and adversity, emerging artists often hailed from tough backgrounds. Their stories echoed tales of tragedy and resilience, resonating strongly with many listeners who could relate to their experiences.

However, as Hip Hop evolved, it reached beyond its original boundaries of "realness" and stories of struggle. It began to captivate a wider and more diverse audience. This raises questions about its transformation and its appeal to middle-class white or non black or brown suburban individuals who might be drawn to the music despite the fact that it doesn't directly reflect their own life experiences (Eason 1255-80). They're faced with music that delves into unimaginable hardships they've never personally encountered. This dynamic prompts a deeper exploration into the universality of the human experience and how Hip Hop manages to bridge gaps and transcend cultural boundaries.