The Influence Of Hip Hop And Rap Music

Since the birth of hip-hop and rap music, there have been certain associations connected with its culture and supporting audience. These associations are made by “White America” who sees culture of hip hop and rap as nothing but offensive, vulgar, and violent. “Gangster music” is often used to label hip-hop and rap music, and therefore associate supporters and people who listen to this type of genre to be gangster or affiliated with violent gang activity. In addition to the music, the perception of the artists who make hip-hop and rap music is that they are ghetto and ignorant. Critics, especially those of earlier generations, do have these perceptions and would never associate with anyone who supports rap culture. Also, earlier generations
Cynthia Tucker, a well-known African-American journalist, stated, “While racism remains a potent force in American life, it does not hold the malignant power of gangsta culture.” This statement coming from a respected African-American journalist indicates that the black community is not unaware of the negative affects and destructive nature of the gangsta rap culture especially upon the poor black youth. One of the most important and known people in rap culture history was Tupac Shakur. Given his hardcore gangsta lifestyle and music, Tupac was one of the most influential and inspirational people that spoke about the problems with how young black teens are not given equal chances in life because of the way they were brought up and the type of music and background they have been subjected to. “No matter what these people say about me, my music doesn 't glorify any image. My music is spiritual when you listen to it. It 's all about emotion, I tell my innermost, darkest secrets.”¬¬¬– Tupac Shakur. Although Tupac’s music did depict a lifestyle of drugs, guns, and unlimited woman, one cannot argue that his music had true meaning, much unlike many rappers
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