As a kid, hip hop was considered dengerous, morally deficient, and an illegitimate form of art. Today hip hop music is embedded in the everday cultural experience of Americans and many across the globe. As hip hop continues to gain validity in popular culture it may have the power to reconstruct the way our nation sees the world.
WhatUpWally? would like to highlight three videos, by hip hop superstars, that allude to the genre's power and cultural influence. There is no other music that reflects on the political, cultural, and economic dimensions of a wide variety of American lifestyles. The innovation of the genre enables it to speak to issues with immediacy and put forth messages instantly.
It is not that hip hop has changed. Hip hop has always been political. It has always spoken out against economic policies that destroy lives. It has always spoke from the margins of society. It has always represented many cultures and socioeconomic levels.
What has changed is a generation that has grown up within the hip hop worldview. Pushed to innovate and collaborate. Drawn together by experimental creativity. Hip hop has forced the doors of culture open and has decided to do something about injustice.
Hip Hop's most recent innovation is the ability to free itself from the artistic restrictions of the major labels. Artist's are using internet blogs such as http://www.okayplayer.com/ to release their music with the politcal and cultural messages that need to be heard. Artist's are creating alliances with companies to release records, recieving more money for their music, and touring with a purpose. Lupe Fiasco, Jay Electronica, Rapper Big Pooh, Phonte, The Roots, Talib Kweli, Consequence, Common, Jean Grae, Nas, Murs, Emilio Rojas, Mos Def, J Cole, Wale, Kidz in the Hall. These artist are a few among many that have the power to change the world.
Can hip hop change the world? Has it already?
Will.I.Am,common,john legend,scarlett johanson -... by tite-sow
Still full of hope,
WhatUpWally?
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