1 definition by Original Man
Hip Hop is largely a sub-culture within a larger culture centred originally around dance (bboying), turn-tables (Dj-ing), Emceeing (shoutouts and dedications) and graffiti.
However, hip-hop has managed to evolve into more than just the four initially defining elements. It assumed the status of being a community's conscience and advocate for enlightenment. As such, hip-hop has acquired great variety from place to place depending on what message is dimmed most befitting in those particular sectors of society. But generally, hip-hop, upon assuming such a demanding role, has had to become more direct and clear in its message, resulting in a shift from seemingly nonsensical rapping into very skillful rhyme deliveries involving a crafty use of words, metaphors and rhyme patterns.
1993 saw the beginning of this dramatic shift from just rapping to thoughtful emceeing. At ths point, it should be evident that what is depicted on MTV and other media is not Hip-Hop but some tangency eminating from a noble way of life and culture. Call that stuff on mass media rap music but not Hip-Hop.
Today, real hip-hop music can be hard to find but nonetheless, it is available for those who really want it. It is enjoyed all across the world, and, underground hip-hop, as it is refered in SADC Africa is becoming more and more accessible.
However, hip-hop has managed to evolve into more than just the four initially defining elements. It assumed the status of being a community's conscience and advocate for enlightenment. As such, hip-hop has acquired great variety from place to place depending on what message is dimmed most befitting in those particular sectors of society. But generally, hip-hop, upon assuming such a demanding role, has had to become more direct and clear in its message, resulting in a shift from seemingly nonsensical rapping into very skillful rhyme deliveries involving a crafty use of words, metaphors and rhyme patterns.
1993 saw the beginning of this dramatic shift from just rapping to thoughtful emceeing. At ths point, it should be evident that what is depicted on MTV and other media is not Hip-Hop but some tangency eminating from a noble way of life and culture. Call that stuff on mass media rap music but not Hip-Hop.
Today, real hip-hop music can be hard to find but nonetheless, it is available for those who really want it. It is enjoyed all across the world, and, underground hip-hop, as it is refered in SADC Africa is becoming more and more accessible.
Hip Hop, The Roots, De La Soul, Mos Def, Common Sense, Dead Prez, Last Emperor, Master Ace, Immortal Technique, Mos Def, Talib Kweli etc...
by Original Man May 2, 2009