The revolution has been televised in the form of hip-hop. It has gone from the gritty streets of the Bronx to the halls of the White House, where a black man now sits as a president. Imagine that. I doubt Africa Bambata did or ever Kurtis Blow when he rapped, “If I ruled the world.” Yet what once seemed impossible has been achieved. A black man is president of the United States, and not just any black man, but one who is truly of the generation that birthed hip-hop.
Check the footage. When political dirt was thrown at President Obama during his campaign he “brushed the dirt off his shoulder” – a gesture inspired by Jay-Z and showing the world his roots. Dig, the first lady can do the “Dougie.” Look how far hip-hop has come. Need I say more?
Despite its flaws and shortcomings, or perhaps in spite of them, hip-hop is the most prolific form of music ever. No other music has accomplished more. Just as the Negro spirituals and songs of the civil rights era motivated our ancestors to persevere in the struggle and strive for improvement, hip-hop is doing the same. Though of humble beginnings, hip-hop has propelled our generation to heights no one would have ever imagined possible. Yeah, “that black music” is lifting us back to glory.
Now though hip-hop was started by black people and is sometimes referred to as “black music,” it has crossed racial barriers and become universal, embraced by people of all nationalities and walks of life all around the world. You need only look around you to see how enormous hip-hop has become.
Hip-hop has journeyed from Bronx River projects to corporate offices around the world. Multibillion dollar companies like McDonalds and Coca-Cola have incorporated hip-hop music in their advertisements. More than a few politicians have used rap or rappers in an effort to broaden their voter field. Isn’t it amazing? What was once considered just a fad has become the loudest voice in the world.
Hip-hop is the sounding board of the world. This is evident in its influence on society. Issues – mundane and critical – can be realized through hip-hop music. You want to know about the latest fashion? Listen to hip-hop. You want to know what happened of significance in Florida? Chances are there is a rap song about it. Trayvon Martin!!! Google it. Such is the significance of hip-hop in our social affairs.
Many people who would have been unsuccessful in life have found success through hip-hop, lifting themselves up from bad situations. They have become pillars of society. They provide for family and friends are advocates for their communities. They are the true voice of the people.
Let me sign off in the words of Pete Rock and Smif –n-Wesson…
Monumental
Rodney Taylor a.k.a. Bucktown
Copyright © 2012 by Rodney Taylor
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