Hip-hop has been an unstoppable force in the music industry since its inception in the late 70s and early 80s. Its distinctive style, sound and culture has continually reshaped and influenced the entire industry, while captivating fans of all ages since its emergence.
No doubt that many of us had parents at the time who were not crazy about this new type of music. Much of the language was not appropriate for the household, however, against all odds, hip-hop has managed to break down these walls and become a major source of entertainment around the world.
Hip-hop was a product of the bold and innovative spirit of its early pioneers. It all began when a DJ from Bronx, New York, proved that two records could be combined to create something completely original. He then set off a chain reaction of musicians and lyrics forming the blossoming culture of hip-hop.
From there, it just exploded, with stars like Run DMC, Beastie Boys and Queen Latifah emerging and reinventing the game with their off-the-cuff lyrics, sampling, scratching and beats. By the late 90s and early 2000s, the world was dominated by rap, with millions gravitating towards it.
Today, hip-hop’s influence on modern culture is clearly visible. From fashion, to language and street art, hip-hop expressions are seen in many aspects of our everyday lives. The term “rap” has come to signify so much more than just music. It is a form of youthful expression, rebellion, and celebration of culture, style, and personality.
The impact of hip-hop is truly widespread. Its use of samples, scratching, fusion of genres, and raw lyrics has long been accepted by mainstream music listeners and has continued to shape commercial music in the mainstream. In fact, it has surpassed the boundaries of just music, touching other aspects of popular culture, such as film and television.
Hip-hop has continually evolved over the years and is still inspiring many today. Its influence has been a great gap creator, bridging the gap between generations, cultures, and even international lines. I personally love rap and can’t help but admire how far it has come in just a few decades. Even more incredible is how it has transcended societal norms and continues to inspire and influence the world.