Last modified on June 15, 2008, at 04:06

Hip hop

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Hip-hop, or rap, is a music style that developed in the mid-1970s in the United States, particularly among youth in cities. It became widely successful with its anti-establishment themes, sometimes even urging violence. It has two main types, rapping and DJing (which includes scratching records, a technique invented by Grand Master Theodore).

Like other forms of vocal music, rap songs typically tell a story, through the use of speech set to music. More so than any other music genre, rap is usually similar to regular speech, with the exception that it is sped up. Traditional singing is often only entailed during the chorus. Musically, hip-hop evolved from hard funk and soul, and frequently samples such records.

Some successful rappers have included Eminem, Dr. Dre, Run Dmc, DJ Skip (also known as A2thaM), The Sugarhill Gang, Snoop Dogg, Notorious B.I.G., Ice-T, and Tupac Shakur.

Criticism

Many groups, including Christian groups, widely decry the sub-genre of gangsta rap, because it often demeans women and strongly promotes violence as well as an overly materialistic sense of life. Songs such as "Big Pimpin'" by Jay-Z promote prostitution while songs like "Dre Day" describe the performers Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre performing depraved sexual acts. Songs like "Where the Hood At?" have become anthems for young gangs and some conservatives believe the songs incite listeners into behaving violently.


Genres of Rap