Hip-Hop Culture

Gr 9 Up—Hip-hop is a culture unto itself, presented here as the combination of four key elements: deejaying, emceeing, break dancing, and graffiti writing. Groundbreaking personalities, innovative techniques, and a collective social consciousness are key to hip-hop's artistry and authenticity and its ability to unite music listeners. Consideration is given to hip-hop's roots in 1970s New York, the influence of African oral traditions, and the rivalry between the East and West Coast interpretations. Coverage is also given to the legal ramifications of music sampling and the criticism of the lyrics and imagery of rap. The role Afrocentrism played in instilling renewed pride among African Americans and the contributions of Latinx people are also mentioned, as is the role of media exposure in bringing this art form into the mainstream. This series celebrates what has become a music staple to much of the world.