The Birth of Hip-Hop
2 min read
As you know, Hip Hop, a cultural and musical movement that originated in the Bronx, New York, is celebrating its 50-year anniversary. From its humble beginnings in the 1970s, Hip Hop has evolved into a global phenomenon, influencing music, fashion, art, and society. In this article, we will delve into the rich history of Hip-Hop, highlighting the pioneers who paved the way and the past and present icons who have shaped the genre.
The Birth of Hip-Hop
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, the South Bronx faced numerous challenges, including poverty, crime, and social unrest. Amidst these conditions, a cultural movement was brewing that would change the course of music forever. Hip Hop emerged as a creative outlet for young African American and Latino communities to express themselves, share their experiences, and escape the harsh realities of their surroundings.
Hip Hop’s birth can be traced back to the block parties held in the Bronx. These gatherings brought people together, and DJs played music from various genres, including funk, soul, and disco. However, it was the instrumental breaks in these songs, known as breakbeats, that captivated the crowd and sparked a new form of musical expression.
As our Creative Director, and very good sis, Charlotte Young Foye said pages ago, one of the key figures in the birth of hip-hop was DJ Kool Herc, also known as Clive Campbell. Herc, a Jamaican immigrant, introduced a revolutionary technique that involved using two turntables to extend the instrumental breaks of songs. By seamlessly transitioning between the two turntables, Herc created an uninterrupted stream of beats, allowing people to showcase their dance moves, a style known as “breakdancing.”
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