Hip-hop culture, which emerged from the streets of New York in the early 1970s, has reached its 51st anniversary. This genre, more than just music, represents a powerful form of expression encompassing dance, art, and a unique linguistic style. It has given a voice to marginalized communities and has been a platform for social commentary, activism, and cultural exchange.
One of the pivotal figures in hip-hop is KRS-One, who has been instrumental in the "Walk This Way" march, an event that celebrates hip-hop's legacy while promoting peace and health within urban communities. This march not only commemorates the genre's rich history but also emphasizes the importance of unity and well-being among its practitioners and fans. On Sunday, August 11, 2024, KRS-One led the march with several other iconic Hip Hop figures including Fat Joe through the streets of the Bronx.
Another key contributor to hip-hop is the aforementioned Fat Joe, who has openly discussed the foundational role of Latinos in the history of hip-hop and has received hate for keeping it real. His career and influence highlight the contributions of Puerto Rican artists to the genre, from its inception to the present day. Fat Joe's work underscores the diversity within hip hop and the need to recognize the contributions of all ethnic groups that have shaped it.
However, the journey of hip-hop has not been without its challenges. There have been concerns about the erasure of Puerto Ricans and other Latino influences from the narrative of hip-hop history as well as the erasure of the Bronx as the originating birthplace of Hip Hop. This erasure is part of a broader issue of anti-Latino rhetoric that can be found in various aspects of society, including the arts fueled by race-baiter Tariq Nasheed and others on social media. Addressing this issue is crucial for the integrity and inclusivity of hip-hop culture. You can read more about this in previous posts here:
Sacerdotus: 'Busta Rhymes' Says Puerto Ricans & Blacks Created Hip Hop
Sacerdotus: Puerto Ricans Co-Creators of Hip Hop
Sacerdotus: Erasure of Puerto Ricans
Sacerdotus: DJ Rob Swift Goes After Tariq Nasheed
As hip-hop continues to evolve, it is essential to remember and celebrate the contributions of Puerto Rican and Latino artists. Their influence is evident in the sounds, styles, and stories that are integral to the genre. Acknowledging and respecting this diversity is key to preserving hip-hop's ethos of community, resilience, and creativity.
On this 51st anniversary, let us reflect on hip hop's journey and recommit to a culture that respects and amplifies all voices. Let's continue to walk this way, together, towards a future where hip-hop remains a vibrant and inclusive art form for generations to come. Let us know the history and not let people push alternative facts, alternative realities and false narratives to the Hip Hop Culture.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Thank you for reading and for your comment. All comments are subject to approval. They must be free of vulgarity, ad hominem and must be relevant to the blog posting subject matter.