We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.

Hip Hop

Hip hop is a music genre and culture that emerged in the Bronx, New York City, in the 1970s. It is characterized by four key elements: rapping, DJing, breakdancing, and graffiti writing. Hip hop music is typically composed of a rap vocal delivery over a beat, which is often created using a sampler or drum machine. The lyrics of hip hop songs often focus on social and political issues, as well as personal experiences and stories.

Read more

Hip hop is a music genre and culture that emerged in the Bronx, New York City, in the 1970s. It is characterized by four key elements: rapping, DJing, breakdancing, and graffiti writing. Hip hop music is typically composed of a rap vocal delivery over a beat, which is often created using a sampler or drum machine. The lyrics of hip hop songs often focus on social and political issues, as well as personal experiences and stories.

History of Hip Hop

Hip hop originated in the African American and Latino communities of the Bronx in the 1970s. Early hip hop artists such as DJ Kool Herc, Afrika Bambaataa, and Grandmaster Flash developed the genre by incorporating elements of funk, soul, and Jamaican dub music. Hip hop quickly spread to other cities in the United States and around the world, and it has become one of the most popular music genres in the world.

Elements of Hip Hop

The four key elements of hip hop are:

  • Rapping: Rapping is a vocal delivery style that involves speaking rhythmically over a beat. Rappers often use rhyme, wordplay, and storytelling to create their lyrics.
  • DJing: DJing is the art of manipulating recorded music to create new sounds and beats. DJs use turntables, mixers, and other equipment to create their mixes.
  • Breakdancing: Breakdancing is a type of dance that involves acrobatic moves and spins. Breakdancers often perform to the beat of hip hop music.
  • Graffiti writing: Graffiti writing is the art of creating visual art on walls and other surfaces. Graffiti artists often use spray paint and other materials to create their work.

Hip Hop Culture

Hip hop culture is more than just music. It is a way of life that includes fashion, language, and art. Hip hop fashion often includes baggy clothes, sneakers, and jewelry. Hip hop language includes slang and terms that are unique to the culture. Hip hop art includes graffiti writing, breakdancing, and other forms of creative expression.

Why Learn About Hip Hop?

There are many reasons to learn about hip hop. Hip hop is a global phenomenon that has had a profound impact on culture and society. It is a powerful form of expression that can be used to communicate social and political messages. Hip hop is also a fun and enjoyable way to connect with others who share your interests.

Online Courses on Hip Hop

There are many ways to learn about hip hop. One option is to take an online course. Online courses offer a flexible and affordable way to learn about hip hop from anywhere in the world. Some of the topics that are covered in online hip hop courses include:

  • The history of hip hop
  • The elements of hip hop
  • Hip hop culture
  • Hip hop music
  • Hip hop dance
  • Hip hop art

Online hip hop courses can be a great way to learn more about this fascinating and complex genre. They can also be a great way to connect with other hip hop fans from around the world.

Careers in Hip Hop

There are many different careers that are associated with hip hop. Some of the most common careers include:

  • Hip hop artist: Hip hop artists create hip hop music, which can include rapping, singing, and producing.
  • DJ: DJs play and mix music at hip hop parties and events.
  • Breakdancer: Breakdancers perform hip hop dance.
  • Graffiti artist: Graffiti artists create visual art that is inspired by hip hop culture.
  • Hip hop journalist: Hip hop journalists write about hip hop music, culture, and artists.
  • Hip hop promoter: Hip hop promoters organize and promote hip hop events.

There are many other careers that are associated with hip hop, such as music producer, music manager, and record label executive. If you are interested in a career in hip hop, there are many different paths that you can take.

Conclusion

Hip hop is a powerful and influential genre of music and culture. It is a global phenomenon that has touched the lives of people all over the world. Whether you are a fan of hip hop or just want to learn more about it, there are many ways to engage with this fascinating and complex genre.

Share

Help others find this page about Hip Hop: by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Reading list

We've selected nine books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Hip Hop.
Provides a year-by-year guide to the most important rap songs of all time, discussing their cultural and historical significance.
Explores the social and political significance of hip hop, examining its role in youth culture, race relations, and global politics.
This collection of essays by various scholars provides a comprehensive overview of hip hop culture in the United States and explores its regional variations.
Provides a detailed look at the history, culture, and business of hip hop.
By the legendary rapper Kool Moe Dee provides a comprehensive guide to the art of rapping, covering everything from flow to lyrics.
Provides a broad overview of hip hop culture, covering its history, music, dance, and fashion.
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2024 OpenCourser