Hip Hop | Masteringmedia

History of Hip Hop and Rap

A Brief History of Hip-Hop: From the Bronx to the UK and Europe

Hip-hop began in the 1970s in the South Bronx, New York City, as a cultural movement created by African American, Afro-Caribbean, and Latino communities. It combined four key elements: MCing (rapping), DJing, breakdancing, and graffiti art. DJ Kool Herc is widely credited with pioneering the style of looping breakbeats, which formed the backbone of early hip-hop music.

In the 1980s and 1990s, hip-hop grew rapidly, becoming both a musical genre and a global cultural force. In the U.S., it split into regional styles, most famously the East Coast–West Coast rivalry. The East Coast, represented by artists like Nas, The Notorious B.I.G., and Wu-Tang Clan, was known for lyrical complexity and gritty urban storytelling. The West Coast, led by Tupac Shakur, Dr. Dre, and N.W.A, popularised G-Funk and explored themes of police violence and inner-city life.

Hip-hop eventually spread around the world. In the UK, it evolved into its own unique scenes. Early artists like London Posse laid the groundwork in the 1980s, while the 2000s saw the rise of grime, a UK-born genre rooted in hip-hop, garage, and dancehall, with stars like Dizzee Rascal, Skepta, and Stormzy. UK hip-hop also includes acts like Dave, Little Simz, and AJ Tracey, who use local dialects and address British social issues.

Across Europe, hip-hop has adapted to different cultures and languages. French rap, led by artists like IAM and Booba, is especially influential, often focused on politics and identity. German, Dutch, and Swedish scenes have also grown, reflecting local experiences of youth, migration, and multiculturalism.

Today, hip-hop is a global voice of resistance, expression, and creativity—born in the Bronx but remixed by the world.

Where and when did hip-hop originate, and which communities were involved in its creation?
What are the four key elements of hip-hop culture?
Who is DJ Kool Herc, and why is he important in hip-hop history?
What were the main differences between East Coast and West Coast hip-hop in the U.S.?
How did UK hip-hop develop its own identity, and which genres did it influence or create?
Name two UK artists and describe how their music reflects British culture or social issues.
How has hip-hop been adapted in other European countries like France or Germany?
Why is hip-hop considered a global voice for resistance and self-expression today?

NEA 2025 (30% of final grade)

Create a functioning website, including a homepage and one other linked page, promoting a new artist or band in the hip-hop genre.
Your production must target an audience of 16–24-year-olds.
Length: 2 pages, including 30 seconds of embedded audio or audio-visual material related to the artist or band and genre and 4 original images.

Your production must construct a representation of at least one specific social group and include:

Homepage:

Original name and logo for the artist or band
A working navigation/menu bar with at least 4 relevant tabs (one linked to the second page)
Main original image plus at least two other original images to promote the artist or band (different from the image/s used on the second page)
Links to other convergent media platforms such as social media sites. Working link to a second page from the artist/band’s website:

Either a 'News' or ‘About' page

At least one original image related to the artist/band (different from the images used on the

homepage).

These pages must include:

Clear branding for the artist or band
Written text related to the artist or band, their music and their image (approximately 150 words

in total)
30 seconds of embedded original audio or audio-visual material related to the artist or band and

the genre (for example, an interview with the artist/band, or the creator of a fan site, or a live performance).

Note: The production should include an image of at least one person and construct a persona for the artist or band.

Old Skool Hip Hop

Old school hip hop was born in the streets of New York City during the 1970s, shaping a global movement from block parties and underground jams. At the heart of this cultural explosion were pioneers like DJ Kool Herc, widely credited as the father of hip hop. Herc’s legendary parties in the Bronx used two turntables to isolate and extend the breakbeat—a technique that laid the foundation for rapping, breakdancing, and DJing.

Grandmaster Flash built on Herc’s groundwork with revolutionary turntable techniques like cutting, backspinning, and scratching. As the frontman of Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, he helped bring hip hop from the street to the stage, with socially conscious tracks like “The Message” redefining what rap could say.

Meanwhile, Fab 5 Freddy acted as a bridge between the uptown hip hop scene and downtown art circles. He was a cultural connector, linking graffiti, rap, and punk. His influence helped bring hip hop into galleries, clubs, and eventually TV.

Blondie’s 1981 hit Rapture was a major crossover moment. The track featured Debbie Harry rapping—name-dropping Fab 5 Freddy and Grandmaster Flash—and introduced hip hop to rock and new wave audiences. It was also the first rap video played on MTV, a milestone for the genre’s mainstream visibility.

The 1983 film Wild Style captured the essence of early hip hop, showcasing real MCs, DJs, graffiti artists, and B-boys from the scene. With appearances by Fab 5 Freddy, the Rock Steady Crew, and others, it remains a raw and authentic time capsule of NYC’s hip hop roots. Together, these figures and moments helped transform New York into the epicenter of a movement—turning turntables and street rhymes into a worldwide phenomenon that still echoes today.

Who is considered the father of hip hop and where did he start?
What DJ technique did Kool Herc develop that influenced early hip hop?
What innovations did Grandmaster Flash bring to DJing?
What is the significance of the track “The Message”?
How did Fab 5 Freddy contribute to hip hop’s growth?
Why is Blondie’s Rapture considered a milestone in hip hop history?
What makes Wild Style an important film for hip hop culture?
How did New York City serve as the foundation for the global hip hop movement

Gangster Rap in LA: N.W.A and the Rise of a Genre (1980s–1990s)

Gangster rap emerged in Los Angeles during the 1980s as a raw, unfiltered reflection of inner-city life, shaped by systemic racism, police brutality, poverty, and gang violence. At the forefront of this movement was N.W.A (Niggaz Wit Attitudes), a group from Compton whose 1988 album Straight Outta Compton revolutionized hip-hop. Their explicit lyrics, particularly in songs like “F**k tha Police,” brought national attention to the realities of police aggression and racial profiling, challenging mainstream narratives and igniting both controversy and praise.

N.W.A members — Ice Cube, Dr. Dre, Eazy-E, MC Ren, and DJ Yella — laid the foundation for the genre with their unapologetic tone and anti-establishment stance. Their music gave voice to marginalized Black communities in South Central LA, exposing listeners to the everyday struggles faced in gang-dominated neighborhoods. Despite being banned on many radio stations, the group's popularity soared through word of mouth, underground tape trading, and MTV’s cautious exposure.

Beyond N.W.A, other LA-based artists continued to shape the genre. Ice-T, one of the earliest pioneers, blended social commentary with crime narratives, while later figures like Snoop Dogg, Tupac Shakur (after relocating to LA), and DJ Quik diversified the sound and message of West Coast rap. The 1990s saw the genre explode commercially, particularly through Death Row Records, co-founded by Dr. Dre and Suge Knight, which became synonymous with West Coast gangster rap.

Gangster rap in LA wasn't just music — it was a political act, a cultural resistance against oppression, and a mirror to America’s urban decay. Its legacy continues to influence hip-hop today, while sparking debates around censorship, freedom of speech, and the ethics of commercializing violence.

What social and political issues did gangster rap in Los Angeles aim to highlight in the 1980s and 1990s?
Why was N.W.A’s song “Fk tha Police” considered controversial, and what impact did it have on public discourse?**
How did N.W.A’s music reflect life in South Central LA during the late 1980s?
Name two key members of N.W.A and describe their contributions to the group or to hip-hop more broadly.
How did gangster rap artists distribute their music despite being banned or censored by mainstream radio and media outlets?
What role did Death Row Records play in the development of West Coast hip-hop in the 1990s?
How did other LA-based rappers like Ice-T and DJ Quik differ in style or message from N.W.A, if at all?
In what ways did gangster rap serve as both a form of resistance and a subject of criticism during its rise in popularity?

Rick Famuyiwa’s Dope (2015) is a vibrant example of the hip hop film genre, weaving together themes of identity, culture, and survival in a modern urban setting. Set in Inglewood, California, the story follows Malcolm, a straight-A student obsessed with 1990s hip hop, as he becomes entangled in a drug scheme that threatens his future. The film reflects core conventions of the genre: inner-city life, musical influence, fashion, and a young protagonist seeking to escape difficult circumstances.

The soundtrack, full of classic and contemporary hip hop tracks, functions as more than background—it shapes mood, pace, and meaning. Clothing and dialogue reflect hip hop culture as both style and substance. As a genre piece, Dope aligns with other films like Boyz n the Hood or 8 Mile, but brings a modern, humorous, and tech-savvy twist to the formula.

At its heart, Dope is about self-expression and transformation. Malcolm’s journey mirrors the classic underdog tale—a hallmark of hip hop storytelling. However, his identity as a self-described geek complicates the usual narrative, challenging stereotypes about Black youth in urban communities.

By combining a fast-paced plot, culturally rich visuals, and a confident tone, Dope proves that hip hop films can be both entertaining and socially conscious. It captures the evolution of the genre while staying rooted in its foundational themes: resistance, creativity, and ambition.

How does the film’s setting reflect hip hop’s origins in marginalized communities?
Does Malcolm represent a new kind of hip hop protagonist?
Is the use of 1990s fashion and music meant to empower or to reminisce?
Can Dope challenge media stereotypes about young Black men?
Does the film’s mix of genres enhance or weaken its overall message?
How does Dope show hip hop’s evolution from subculture to mainstream influence

Dope

Hip Hop Music Video

From the streets of New York to global platforms, hip hop music videos have evolved dramatically, reflecting shifts in culture through distinct media language and genre conventions. Blondie’s Rapture (1981) was one of the earliest mainstream videos to feature rapping, combining surreal visuals with punk-disco aesthetics. This paved the way for the Beastie Boys’ Fight for Your Right (1987) which used slapstick humor and chaotic mise-en-scène to parody both rock and rap culture.

Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five’s The Message (1982) brought gritty realism to the screen, using documentary-style visuals to foreground social decay. Run-D.M.C.’s Walk This Way (1986) visually represented genre fusion with the use of split screen, while Public Enemy’s Fight the Power (1989) used protest imagery to intensify its revolutionary message.

The 1990s emphasized identity and experimentation. Dr. Dre’s Nuthin’ But a ‘G’ Thang (1992) and Tupac’s California Love (1995) showcased West Coast life through vibrant performance and cinematic references. In contrast, Missy Elliott’s The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly) (1997) and Busta Rhymes’ Gimme Some More (1998) pushed visual boundaries with CGI, fish-eye lenses, and animated movement.

In the 2000s, artists like Outkast (Hey Ya!, 2003), Jay-Z (99 Problems, 2004), and Kanye West (Jesus Walks, 2004) expanded hip hop’s storytelling through color theory, narrative fragmentation, and religious symbolism. Videos like Kendrick Lamar’s Alright (2015) and Childish Gambino’s This Is America (2018) redefined political expression using striking juxtapositions and visual metaphor.

In the UK, grime artists brought their own voice. Dizzee Rascal’s Fix Up, Look Sharp (2003), Skepta’s Shutdown (2015), Stormzy’s Vossi Bop (2019), and Little Simz’s Introvert (2021) used lo-fi realism, expressive body language, and poetic voiceover to speak to social issues from a distinctly British perspective.

Which two early artists helped introduce rap to mainstream music television, and how did their videos use visual style to achieve this?
How did The Message by Grandmaster Flash use media language to highlight social issues?
What editing and staging techniques did Run-D.M.C. use in Walk This Way to show genre crossover?
Name two 1990s music videos that used surreal visuals and experimental effects. What media techniques did they use?
How did This Is America by Childish Gambino use choreography and mise-en-scène to convey political messages?
What role does direct address play in grime videos by artists like Skepta or Stormzy?
In what ways did videos from the 2000s (e.g. Hey Ya! or Jesus Walks) challenge or expand hip hop’s genre conventions?
How does the visual style of UK grime videos differ from that of early American hip hop videos?

General Hip-Hop Terms:

Beat: The instrumental backing track of a song. Often created by a producer.
Bars: Lines of a rap verse. A rapper’s skill is often measured by their ability to deliver impactful bars.
Flow: The rhythm, rhyme, and cadence of a rapper's delivery. A distinctive flow is a key element of an artist's style.
Lyricism: The art of crafting clever and meaningful lyrics, often involving complex rhyme schemes and wordplay.
MC (Master of Ceremonies): Traditionally, the host of a hip-hop party; now commonly refers to a rapper.
Producer: The individual responsible for creating the beat and overall sound of a track.
Mixtape: A collection of songs, often released for free online, showcasing an artist's skills and style.
Album: A full-length collection of recorded music, typically released commercially.
Single: A track released for sale separately from an album, intended to promote the artist.
Drop: A sudden, impactful change in the beat, often used to create excitement.

Fashion Items: Costume

Bucket Hats: A staple since the 90s, often in bold patterns or colours.
Oversized Graphic Tees: Featuring iconic rappers, album art, or streetwear brands.
Baggy Jeans/Cargo Pants: Loose-fitting denim or utility pants, often with chains or embellishments.
Timberland Boots: Classic work boots, a symbol of street style and practicality.
Tracksuits: Velour or nylon tracksuits, popularized by artists like Aaliyah and frequently customized.
Gold Chains/Jewellery: Chunky gold chains, pendants, and rings are a quintessential hip-hop accessory.
Snapback Caps: Fitted caps with adjustable straps, often worn backwards or sideways.
Hoodies: Oversized hoodies, frequently branded or featuring unique designs.
Statement Sneakers: High-top or bold-designed sneakers from brands like Nike, Adidas, or Puma.
Durags: Silk or satin head coverings, initially functional but now a fashion statement.

Early Origins: The initial clothing choices were driven by practicality due to the Bronx environment. It was a tough, economically depressed area, so people wore what they could find – often hand-me-downs, thrift store finds, and durable workwear. The focus was on functionality and affordability, not high fashion.

Afrika Bambaataa’s Influence: Bambaataa’s Zulu Nation promoted a unified style and image as a way to discourage gang violence. They adopted a specific colour scheme (orange, green, and black) and encouraged a dress code that emphasised unity and a positive image, moving away from gang-affiliated clothing.

The Rise of Tracksuits: Run-DMC is credited with popularising tracksuits, specifically Adidas tracksuits. They wore them as part of their stage attire and in music videos, which significantly boosted their popularity and association with hip-hop.

Dapper Dan’s Role: Dapper Dan ran an unlicensed boutique in Harlem where he created custom, knock-off luxury clothing – essentially, he replicated high-end designs using affordable materials. He impacted the fashion landscape by providing access to luxury-inspired styles for those who couldn't afford the originals and by demonstrating a unique, DIY approach to fashion. He essentially democratised luxury.

The Influence of Sportswear: Puma and Adidas were crucial. Initially, they were worn for their functionality, but Run-DMC's endorsement of Adidas, in particular, led to major collaborations and sponsorships. Sportswear brands began to recognise hip-hop's influence and actively sought partnerships.

Gangsta Rap & Fashion: The rise of gangsta rap in the late 80s/early 90s brought a tougher, more aggressive aesthetic. Baggy jeans (often Dickies), Timberland boots, and oversized sports jerseys became associated with this subgenre, reflecting a streetwise and sometimes intimidating image.

The Importance of Gold Jewelry: Gold jewellery was significant as a symbol of success, wealth, and status. It represented overcoming hardship and achieving financial prosperity. It was also a visual marker of identity and belonging within the hip-hop community.

Luxury Brand Appropriation: This refers to hip-hop artists wearing and referencing luxury brands, often without being officially affiliated. Dapper Dan's business was a prime example. It created tension with the luxury brands who initially saw it as knock-off and disrespectful, but eventually recognized the marketing power of hip-hop culture.

The Impact of MTV: MTV played a huge role in mainstream visibility. Music videos showcased hip-hop artists and their fashion choices to a massive audience, driving trends and influencing mainstream fashion. It transformed hip-hop fashion from a local phenomenon to a national and global one.

Contemporary Trends: The video notes a return to more vintage styles, a focus on streetwear brands, and a blending of high fashion with hip-hop aesthetics. There’s also a greater emphasis on individuality and self-expression, with artists pushing boundaries and experimenting with different looks.

Early Origins: What were some of the initial practical reasons for the clothing choices of early hip-hop pioneers in the Bronx? (Think about the environment and resources available.)
Afrika Bambaataa's Influence: How did Afrika Bambaataa’s Zulu Nation contribute to the development of hip-hop fashion beyond just music?
The Rise of Tracksuits: The video highlights the significance of tracksuits. What specific event or artist is credited with popularising them in hip-hop fashion?
Dapper Dan’s Role: Describe Dapper Dan’s business and how he impacted the fashion landscape, particularly in relation to luxury brands.
The Influence of Sportswear: What role did sportswear brands like Puma and Adidas play in the evolution of hip-hop style, and what strategies did they employ?
Gangsta Rap & Fashion: How did the rise of gangsta rap in the late 80s and early 90s influence the aesthetic of hip-hop fashion? What specific items became associated with this subgenre?
The Importance of Gold Jewellery: Why was gold jewellery so significant in hip-hop fashion, and what did it represent beyond just material wealth?
Luxury Brand Appropriation: Discuss the appropriation of luxury brands. Explain this phenomenon and its impact on both hip-hop artists and the fashion industry.
The Impact of MTV: How did MTV contribute to the mainstream visibility and commercialisation of hip-hop fashion?
Contemporary Trends: How has hip-hop fashion evolved in recent years, and what are some of the current trends being seen?

Slang & Cultural Terms (Context is Key!):

‘Hood: Short for neighborhood, often referring to urban communities.
‘Tron: An alcoholic drink, often tequila.
411: Information.
5-0: Police.
Real: Authentic, genuine, true to oneself.
Keep it Real (KIR): To remain authentic and true to oneself.
Drip: Style, swagger, fashionable appearance.
Fire: Excellent, impressive, high quality.
Vibes: A feeling or atmosphere created by music, people, or a place.
Plug: A source for something, often referring to a connection for obtaining goods or information.

General Website Terms:

Homepage: The main landing page of the website, often providing an overview of the artist and their content.
Navigation Bar: The menu at the top (or sometimes side) of the page, allowing users to move between different sections of the site.
URL (Uniform Resource Locator): The web address of a specific page (e.g., www.artistname.com/music).
Domain Name: The unique name of the website (e.g., artistname.com).
Server: A computer that stores the website's files and makes them accessible online.
Bandwidth: The amount of data that can be transferred between the website and users.
Cache: A temporary storage area that speeds up website loading times by storing frequently accessed data.
Responsive Design: A website design that adapts to different screen sizes (desktops, tablets, phones).
SEO (Search Engine Optimization): Techniques used to improve a website's ranking in search engine results (like Google).
Analytics: Data collected about website traffic and user behavior (e.g., page views, bounce rate).
Cookie: A small file stored on a user's computer that tracks their activity on the website. (Often used for personalization and advertising - mention GDPR/privacy implications if relevant).