Hip-Hop Media, Education & Culture
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Internet Killed the B-Boy Star: a Study of B-Boying Through the Lens Of
Internet Killed the B-boy Star: A Study of B-boying Through the Lens of Contemporary Media Dehui Kong Senior Seminar in Dance Fall 2010 Thesis director: Professor L. Garafola © Dehui Kong 1 B-Boy Infinitives To suck until our lips turned blue the last drops of cool juice from a crumpled cup sopped with spit the first Italian Ice of summer To chase popsicle stick skiffs along the curb skimming stormwater from Woodbridge Ave to Old Post Road To be To B-boy To be boys who snuck into a garden to pluck a baseball from mud and shit To hop that old man's fence before he bust through his front door with a lame-bull limp charge and a fist the size of half a spade To be To B-boy To lace shell-toe Adidas To say Word to Kurtis Blow To laugh the afternoons someone's mama was so black when she stepped out the car B-boy… that’s what it is, that’s why when the public the oil light went on changed it to ‘break-dancing’ they were just giving a To count hairs sprouting professional name to it, but b-boy was the original name for it and whoever wants to keep it real would around our cocks To touch 1 ourselves To pick the half-smoked keep calling it b-boy. True Blues from my father's ash tray and cough the gray grit - JoJo, from Rock Steady Crew into my hands To run my tongue along the lips of a girl with crooked teeth To be To B-boy To be boys for the ten days an 8-foot gash of cardboard lasts after we dragged that cardboard seven blocks then slapped it on the cracked blacktop To spin on our hands and backs To bruise elbows wrists and hips To Bronx-Twist Jersey version beside the mid-day traffic To swipe To pop To lock freeze and drop dimes on the hot pavement – even if the girls stopped watching and the street lamps lit buzzed all night we danced like that and no one called us home - Patrick Rosal 1 The Freshest Kids , prod. -
In Defense of Rap Music: Not Just Beats, Rhymes, Sex, and Violence
In Defense of Rap Music: Not Just Beats, Rhymes, Sex, and Violence THESIS Presented in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Master of Arts Degree in the Graduate School of The Ohio State University By Crystal Joesell Radford, BA Graduate Program in Education The Ohio State University 2011 Thesis Committee: Professor Beverly Gordon, Advisor Professor Adrienne Dixson Copyrighted by Crystal Joesell Radford 2011 Abstract This study critically analyzes rap through an interdisciplinary framework. The study explains rap‟s socio-cultural history and it examines the multi-generational, classed, racialized, and gendered identities in rap. Rap music grew out of hip-hop culture, which has – in part – earned it a garnering of criticism of being too “violent,” “sexist,” and “noisy.” This criticism became especially pronounced with the emergence of the rap subgenre dubbed “gangsta rap” in the 1990s, which is particularly known for its sexist and violent content. Rap music, which captures the spirit of hip-hop culture, evolved in American inner cities in the early 1970s in the South Bronx at the wake of the Civil Rights, Black Nationalist, and Women‟s Liberation movements during a new technological revolution. During the 1970s and 80s, a series of sociopolitical conscious raps were launched, as young people of color found a cathartic means of expression by which to describe the conditions of the inner-city – a space largely constructed by those in power. Rap thrived under poverty, police repression, social policy, class, and gender relations (Baker, 1993; Boyd, 1997; Keyes, 2000, 2002; Perkins, 1996; Potter, 1995; Rose, 1994, 2008; Watkins, 1998). -
Sonic Necessity-Exarchos
Sonic Necessity and Compositional Invention in #BluesHop: Composing the Blues for Sample-Based Hip Hop Abstract Rap, the musical element of Hip-Hop culture, has depended upon the recorded past to shape its birth, present and, potentially, its future. Founded upon a sample-based methodology, the style’s perceived authenticity and sonic impact are largely attributed to the use of phonographic records, and the unique conditions offered by composition within a sampling context. Yet, while the dependence on pre-existing recordings challenges traditional notions of authorship, it also results in unavoidable legal and financial implications for sampling composers who, increasingly, seek alternative ways to infuse the sample-based method with authentic content. But what are the challenges inherent in attempting to compose new material—inspired by traditional forms—while adhering to Rap’s unique sonic rationale, aesthetics and methodology? How does composing within a stylistic frame rooted in the past (i.e. the Blues) differ under the pursuit of contemporary sonics and methodological preferences (i.e. Hip-Hop’s sample-based process)? And what are the dynamics of this inter-stylistic synthesis? The article argues that in pursuing specific, stylistically determined sonic objectives, sample-based production facilitates an interactive typology of unique conditions for the composition, appropriation, and divergence of traditional musical forms, incubating era-defying genres that leverage the dynamics of this interaction. The musicological inquiry utilizes (auto)ethnography reflecting on professional creative practice, in order to investigate compositional problematics specific to the applied Blues-Hop context, theorize on the nature of inter- stylistic composition, and consider the effects of electronic mediation on genre transformation and stylistic morphing. -
A Collection Analysis of the African-American Poetry Holdings in the De Grummond Collection Sarah J
SLIS Connecting Volume 2 | Issue 1 Article 9 2013 A Collection Analysis of the African-American Poetry Holdings in the de Grummond Collection Sarah J. Heidelberg Follow this and additional works at: http://aquila.usm.edu/slisconnecting Part of the Library and Information Science Commons Recommended Citation Heidelberg, Sarah J. (2013) "A Collection Analysis of the African-American Poetry Holdings in the de Grummond Collection," SLIS Connecting: Vol. 2: Iss. 1, Article 9. DOI: 10.18785/slis.0201.09 Available at: http://aquila.usm.edu/slisconnecting/vol2/iss1/9 This Article is brought to you for free and open access by The Aquila Digital Community. It has been accepted for inclusion in SLIS Connecting by an authorized administrator of The Aquila Digital Community. For more information, please contact [email protected]. A Collection Analysis of the African‐American Poetry Holdings in the de Grummond Collection By Sarah J. Heidelberg Master’s Research Project, November 2010 Performance poetry is part of the new black poetry. Readers: Dr. M.J. Norton This includes spoken word and slam. It has been said Dr. Teresa S. Welsh that the introduction of slam poetry to children can “salvage” an almost broken “relationship with poetry” (Boudreau, 2009, 1). This is because slam Introduction poetry makes a poets’ art more palatable for the Poetry is beneficial for both children and adults; senses and draws people to poetry (Jones, 2003, 17). however, many believe it offers more benefit to Even if the poetry that is spoken at these slams is children (Vardell, 2006, 36). The reading of poetry sometimes not as developed or polished as it would correlates with literacy attainment (Maynard, 2005; be hoped (Jones, 2003, 23). -
The Life & Rhymes of Jay-Z, an Historical Biography
ABSTRACT Title of Dissertation: THE LIFE & RHYMES OF JAY-Z, AN HISTORICAL BIOGRAPHY: 1969-2004 Omékongo Dibinga, Doctor of Philosophy, 2015 Dissertation directed by: Dr. Barbara Finkelstein, Professor Emerita, University of Maryland College of Education. Department of Teaching and Learning, Policy and Leadership. The purpose of this dissertation is to explore the life and ideas of Jay-Z. It is an effort to illuminate the ways in which he managed the vicissitudes of life as they were inscribed in the political, economic cultural, social contexts and message systems of the worlds which he inhabited: the social ideas of class struggle, the fact of black youth disempowerment, educational disenfranchisement, entrepreneurial possibility, and the struggle of families to buffer their children from the horrors of life on the streets. Jay-Z was born into a society in flux in 1969. By the time Jay-Z reached his 20s, he saw the art form he came to love at the age of 9—hip hop— become a vehicle for upward mobility and the acquisition of great wealth through the sale of multiplatinum albums, massive record deal signings, and the omnipresence of hip-hop culture on radio and television. In short, Jay-Z lived at a time where, if he could survive his turbulent environment, he could take advantage of new terrains of possibility. This dissertation seeks to shed light on the life and development of Jay-Z during a time of great challenge and change in America and beyond. THE LIFE & RHYMES OF JAY-Z, AN HISTORICAL BIOGRAPHY: 1969-2004 An historical biography: 1969-2004 by Omékongo Dibinga Dissertation submitted to the Faculty of the Graduate School of the University of Maryland, College Park, in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy 2015 Advisory Committee: Professor Barbara Finkelstein, Chair Professor Steve Klees Professor Robert Croninger Professor Derrick Alridge Professor Hoda Mahmoudi © Copyright by Omékongo Dibinga 2015 Acknowledgments I would first like to thank God for making life possible and bringing me to this point in my life. -
(2001) 96- 126 Gangsta Misogyny: a Content Analysis of the Portrayals of Violence Against Women in Rap Music, 1987-1993*
Copyright © 2001 Journal of Criminal Justice and Popular Culture All rights reserved. ISSN 1070-8286 Journal of Criminal Justice and Popular Culture, 8(2) (2001) 96- 126 GANGSTA MISOGYNY: A CONTENT ANALYSIS OF THE PORTRAYALS OF VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN IN RAP MUSIC, 1987-1993* by Edward G. Armstrong Murray State University ABSTRACT Gangsta rap music is often identified with violent and misogynist lyric portrayals. This article presents the results of a content analysis of gangsta rap music's violent and misogynist lyrics. The gangsta rap music domain is specified and the work of thirteen artists as presented in 490 songs is examined. A main finding is that 22% of gangsta rap music songs contain violent and misogynist lyrics. A deconstructive interpretation suggests that gangsta rap music is necessarily understood within a context of patriarchal hegemony. INTRODUCTION Theresa Martinez (1997) argues that rap music is a form of oppositional culture that offers a message of resistance, empowerment, and social critique. But this cogent and lyrical exposition intentionally avoids analysis of explicitly misogynist and sexist lyrics. The present study begins where Martinez leaves off: a content analysis of gangsta rap's lyrics and a classification of its violent and misogynist messages. First, the gangsta rap music domain is specified. Next, the prevalence and seriousness of overt episodes of violent and misogynist lyrics are documented. This involves the identification of attributes and the construction of meaning through the use of crime categories. Finally, a deconstructive interpretation is offered in which gangsta rap music's violent and misogynist lyrics are explicated in terms of the symbolic encoding of gender relationships. -
Word! the African American Oral Tradition and Its Rhetorical Impact on American Popular Culture by Janice D
Word! The African American Oral Tradition and Prior to enslavement in America, Africans its Rhetorical Impact lived in societies developed around a worldview on American Popular Culture that was predicated on highly sophisticated religious By Janice D. Hamlet systems and an impressive oral communication style. The Africans believed in Nommo, which means Popular culture consists of the everyday culture the generative power of the spoken word. Nommo that comprises virtually every aspect of our existence. was believed necessary to actualize life and give Its fonns of expression include music, dance, literature, man mastery over things. "All activities of men and drama, film, poetry, language use, newspapers, radio all the movements in nature rest on the word on the and television, fashion, sports, and leisure activities. ' productive power of the word, which is water and heat Its major components are objects, persons, and events, and seed and Nommo that is, life force itself ... The but it is through the use of verbal and nonverbal force, responsibility, and commitment of the word and symbols that popular culture is constructed and has the the awareness that the word alone alters the world." In potential to persuade, influence, motivate, and inspire. traditional African culture, newborn children are mere We are surrounded every day by these constructs of things until their fathers give them names and speak popular culture. them. No medicine, potion, or magic of any sort is For many years, African Americans were simply considered effective without accompanying words. So objects within popular culture whose representation strong is the African belief in the power and absolute tended to be quite stereotypical and problematic. -
Fresh Dressed
PRESENTS FRESH DRESSED A CNN FILMS PRODUCTION WORLD PREMIERE – DOCUMENTARY PREMIERE Running Time: 82 Minutes Sales Contact: Dogwoof Ana Vicente – Head of Theatrical Sales Tel: 02072536244 [email protected] 1 SYNOPSIS With funky, fat-laced Adidas, Kangol hats, and Cazal shades, a totally original look was born— Fresh—and it came from the black and brown side of town where another cultural force was revving up in the streets to take the world by storm. Hip-hop, and its aspirational relationship to fashion, would become such a force on the market that Tommy Hilfiger, in an effort to associate their brand with the cultural swell, would drive through the streets and hand out free clothing to kids on the corner. Fresh Dressed is a fascinating, fun-to-watch chronicle of hip-hop, urban fashion, and the hustle that brought oversized pants and graffiti-drenched jackets from Orchard Street to high fashion's catwalks and Middle America shopping malls. Reaching deep to Southern plantation culture, the Black church, and Little Richard, director Sacha Jenkins' music-drenched history draws from a rich mix of archival materials and in-depth interviews with rappers, designers, and other industry insiders, such as Pharrell Williams, Damon Dash, Karl Kani, Kanye West, Nasir Jones, and André Leon Talley. The result is a passionate telling of how the reach for freedom of expression and a better life by a culture that refused to be squashed, would, through sheer originality and swagger, take over the mainstream. 2 ABOUT THE FILMMAKERS SACHA JENKINS – Director Sacha Jenkins, a native New Yorker, published his first magazine—Graphic Scenes & X-Plicit Language (a ‘zine about the graffiti subculture)—at age 17. -
GAZETTEOF CONGRESS a Weekly Publication for Staff INSIDE
Volume 32, No. 12 LIBRARY March 26, 2021 GAZETTEOF CONGRESS A weekly publication for staff INSIDE Curating Black Culture Three Howard University students are bringing African American history and culture to the fore this spring through the Archives, History and Heritage Advanced Internship Program. Courtesy ©Muppets Studio of and LC PAGE 3 New registry additions: "The Rainbow Connection," sung by Jim Henson as Kermit the Frog, and Janet Jackson's "Rhythm Nation 1814." New Registry Titles Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden announced 25 new additions to Janet Jackson and Kermit the the National Recording Registry on Wednesday. Frog Added to Recording Registry PAGE 4—5 New recordings bring the total number of titles on the registry to 575. Janet Jackson’s clarion call for to the nation’s recorded sound action and healing in “Rhythm heritage. Nation 1814” now joins other “The National Recording Registry groundbreaking sounds of his- will preserve our history through tory and culture on the Library’s these vibrant recordings of music National Recording Registry. The and voices that have reflected our album was inducted into the regis- humanity and shaped our culture,” try on Wednesday along with Louis Hayden said. Armstrong’s “When the Saints Go Marching In,” Labelle’s “Lady She noted that the Library Marmalade,” Nas’ “Illmatic,” Kool received about 900 nominations Researcher Story and the Gang’s “Celebration” and from the public for recordings to Miami University in Ohio history profes- Kermit the Frog’s “The Rainbow add to the registry. “We welcome sor Kimberly Hamlin researched her Connection.” the public’s input as the Library of new book about suffragist Helen Hamil- Congress and its partners pre- ton Gardener in the Manuscript Division. -
Hip-Hop Timeline 1973 – Kool Herc Deejays His First Party in the Bronx
Hip-hop Timeline ➢ 1973 – Kool Herc deejays his first party in the Bronx, where his blending of breaks is first exhibited. The break dancers in attendance began to discover their style and form. ➢ 1975 – Grandmaster Flash begins the early forms of Turntabilism by blending and mixing, while Grandwizard Theodore invents what we now know as scratching. The first Emcee crews are formed. ➢ 1979 – The Sugarhill Gang, under the guidance of record label owner and former vocalist Sylvia Robinson, release Rapper’s Delight, the first commercially recognized rap song. *There is much debate over the first recorded rap song, but it’s widely believed to have been done sometime in 1977 or 1978. ➢ 1980 – Kurtis Blow releases the first best selling hip-hop album, The Breaks, and becomes the first star in hip-hop music. ➢ 1983 – Herbie Hancock, in collaboration with pioneer DeeJay GrandMixer DST (now known as GrandMixer DXT), creates the Grammy Award-winning song Rockit, which is the first time the public ever hears a DeeJay scratching on record. Pioneer hip-hop duo Run DMC releases their first single Sucker Emcee’s. ➢ 1988 – This year is considered the first golden year in hip-hop music with releases such as Public Enemy’s It Takes A Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back, Big Daddy Kane’s Long Live The Kane, Slick Rick’s The Great Adventures of Slick Rick, Boogie Down Production’s By All Means Necessary, Eric B And Rakim’s Follow the Leader and the first highly regarded non-New York hip-hop record, N.W.A.’s Straight Outta Compton. -
Hip Hop-Decoded MUS 307/AFR 317
************************************************************* Music of African Americans: Hip Hop-Decoded MUS 307/AFR 317 Fall 2016 MRH 2.608 MWF 12-1pm Instructor: Dr. Charles Carson MBE 3.604 [email protected] Twitter: @UT_Doc_C 512.232.9448 Office hours: M 1-2pm, or by appointment Teaching Assistant: Rose Bridges Sections: Tuesday, 5-6pm (21360/30095) Tuesday, 6-7pm (21370/30105) Tuesday, 7-8pm (21380/30115)* Thursday, 5-6pm (21365/30100) Thursday, 6-7pm (21375/30110) I. Course Description: Generally speaking, this course is an introduction to the musical, social, cultural, and political elements of Hip Hop culture in the US, as interpreted through the development of its musical style. II. Course Aims and Objectives: Aims Beyond increasing familiarity with African American music and culture, a major goal of this course is to provide you with the tools to coexist--and indeed thrive--in a global context. Specific Learning Objectives: By the end of this course, students will: ● Be able to recognize and describe general elements of African American cultural practices, including instruments/media, performance practice, and aesthetics. ● Discuss the ways in which these elements have influenced (and continue to influence) contemporary American and global cultures, especially with respect to hip hop and related genres. ● Discuss the ways in which these elements have influenced (and continue to influence) contemporary American and global cultures, especially with respect to hip hop and related genres. ● Critically assess expressions and representations of African American culture in music and media. ● Be able to apply these critical thinking skills in the context of other cultures, both historical and contemporary. III. -
„Spoken Word Poetry“ Among African-Americans in Baltimore
„Spoken Word Poetry“ among African-Americans in Baltimore A Social-Anthropological Analysis Corinna Letisha Green Arbeitspapiere zur Ethnologie Working Papers in Social Anthropology Institute of Ethnology Number 1 - 2016 Corinna Letisha Green „Spoken Word Poetry“ among African-Americans in Baltimore. A Social- Anthropological Analysis Masterarbeit am Institut für Ethnologie der Westfälischen Wilhelms-Universität Münster 2015 Betreuung durch Prof. Dr. Josephus Platenkamp ii Table of Contents Table of Contents ............................................................................................................ ii List of Figures ................................................................................................................ iv Introduction .................................................................................................................... 5 1. Individuality in Spoken Word Poetry ................................................................ 10 Analysis ............................................................................................................................................................. 10 Duke the Rude ............................................................................................................................................. 14 Najah James ................................................................................................................................................. 20 Love the Poet ..............................................................................................................................................