Hip Hop and Race Relations in America - 2119 Words

KRS One once said, Rap is something you do, Hip-Hop is something you live. The difference between how Hip-Hop is portrayed (rap) and what the Hip-Hop movement is, is that Hip-Hop is a lifestyle but the Hip-Hop we see on television is a media creation. We have to look at hip-hop as a whole culture and rap as something that comes out of it. Although Hip-Hop was originated by a mostly Negro constituency, it has evolved since its creation into a worldwide forum through which family, community, social and political grievances (HHC) can be voiced through various art forms. Today, the Hip-Hop movement (if looked at as its meant to be looked at) plays a very positive role throughout the political and social spectrums in America, and is†¦show more content†¦However, that is exactly the problem that most groups face today. There are literally hundreds of organizations that have lofty goals, such as the HHC, but they dont have the resources necessary to unite the Hip-Hop movement into an actual force. Nor do they have the leadership or the exposure necessary to overcome that major obstacle. Right now the Hip-Hop movement is just a vague notion, but with the right leadership it can become a dagger to be held to the throats of the people in power to demand equality for all people in America and eventually throughout the world. The fact that the Hip-Hop movement is often equated with something negative such as anti-black images, drugs, violence, and sex definitely detracts from the power of the movement. It strips the power the movement gains from its noble ambitions Ââ€" the heart of the movement. But unless the public understands there is a difference between what the media portrays the Hip-Hop movement as and what the movement actually stands for, nothing will change. No progress will be made. Suzy Hansen argues that some black activists complain that the media marginalizes the good things about hip-hop, choosing to focus on the often misogynistic lyrics, flashy andShow MoreRelatedHow has our understanding of ‘race’ been shaped and influenced by mass media in America in relation to hip-hop?1892 Words   |  8 PagesHow has our understanding of ‘race’ been shaped and influenced by mass media in America in relation to hip-hop? Mass media, through its selective portrayal of hip-hop has played a crucial role in the way that it has been understood and interpreted over time. The media’s focus on negative aspects of the genre has led to the establishment of a two-class system. This brings forward the theories of Karl Marx in relation to the ‘two-class system’. The media also portrays the dominance of capitalismRead MoreHip-hop was a cultural movement. It emerged in the early 1970s from the South Bronx. Hip-hop came1300 Words   |  6 PagesHip-hop was a cultural movement. 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