Drawing on 2-4 of the definitions provided above and chapters 1-5 of our textbook Rap and Hip Hop Culture (New York: Oxford University Press, 2015) complete the following 4 steps which contain strict guidelines and some (semi-open ended) questions
QUESTION
Part 1: Read the following different pairs of definitions of “hip hop” from various sources (some definitions are intentionally provocative).
| What is hip hop? | ||
| “Hip Hop is still fundamentally an art form that traffics in hyperbole, parody, kitsch, dramatic license, double entendres, signification, and other literary and artistic conventions to get its point across.” Michael Eric Dyson, scholar (Dyson 2007: xvii) | “Hip-Hop does not make it exceptionally endearing to me by the attitude that the menfolk have towards the women. It’s very difficult to hold your head up with dignity when guys are looking at you like you just some b*tch or a hoe. It’s not exactly a fun kind of subculture for the women. It’s all good for the men that get to be machismo and posture and strut about, that’s all good. But the ladies…it’s very hard.” Lady Pink, graffiti writer (quoted in Aqua) | |
| “Hip-hop was born in New York City in the mid-1970s as a vehicle for inner-city youth to throw parties on their blocks and at area clubs, and for them to make money as DJs and promoters.” Kevin Powell, writer (Powell) | “According to one ex-high Satanist, it is identical with the voodoo chants and rituals used within Satanism to summon up demons of lust and violence.” Jack Chick, Battle Cry newspaper (Small 1992: 4) | |
| “Hip and Hop is more than music Hip is the knowledge Hop is the movement Hip and Hop is intelligent movement” KRS-One and Marley Marl lyrics to song “Hip Hop Lives” |
“Hip-hop, everybody’s allowed to come in it, because it’s a street thing. I heard someone say, ‘Frank Ocean hip-hop artist.’ He is, hip-hop loves Frank Ocean, he’s our brother, but [he’s not a hip-hop artist]. Miguel is not a hip-hop artist. Trey Songz is not a hip-hop artist. They’re singers.” Nas (Bené Viera) | |
| ” Hip Hop music is made from black, brown, yellow, red, white—whatever music that gives you the grunt, that funk, that groove or that beat. It’s all part of hip hop.” Afrika Bambaataa, DJ (Davy D) | “Hip-hop is about youth and the young at heart.” Kool Herc, DJ (Mao 2013: 66) |
Part 2: Drawing on 2-4 of the definitions provided above and chapters 1-5 of our textbook Rap and Hip Hop Culture (New York: Oxford University Press, 2015) complete the following 4 steps which contain strict guidelines and some (semi-open ended) questions to develop an argument to help you explain the different ideas community members and media critics have about “hip hop.”
- (0-5 points) In one paragraph, set your tone and inform your reader that you are about to address the complex and inconsistent ways “we” have defined and misused the terms “hip hop” and “rap.” Can you do it in an interesting way to draw a reader to continue reading your work? Required elements:
- Focus on 2-4 examples as opposed to responding to every definition on the list.
- What background information does your reader need to know in order to understand your claim? (example: why it is necessary to address definitions. Or how key terms are used and abused. Or …)
- Who does “we” represent?
- Your last sentence should be your claim.
- (0-7.5 points) In the following 2-3 paragraphs, problematize(to view as a problem to solve) a couple of the definitions. Introduce your evidence to prove your claim. NOTE: Your opinion alone is not sufficient. Instead, you must draw on the other definitions from this group to help support your argument and draw on the data from your textbook and/or you may draw on other academically sound materials and include that source in your WORKS CITED page.
- (0-5 points) In the following paragraph, anticipate a counterargument or counterarguments: What might a reader pose against your argument or your reasoning?
- Recognize your own biases: I am young and a current fan of hip hop culture. OR I am an older fan and perhaps romanticize the past too much. OR I am male and might ignore the ways it has impacted female participants. OR…
- End by re-establishing why your argument is more right than wrong.
- (0-7.5 points) In the final 1 or 2 paragraphs answer the very dubious question: So what? Explain why it is important to be critical of people’s ideas and why a critical thinker like yourself has a duty to challenge authoritative voices (it is quite possible to develop a strong argument against the great, almighty Nas’s definition or a scholar dedicated to Africana studies like Dr. Dyson).
- It is possible to introduce new information in your concluding thoughts; however, it takes some skill to do so successfully. Are you up to the challenge? Are you able to propose a longer thesis based on this exercise?
Your write-up should be about 1,000 words total (only 10% more or less will be accepted without penalty; double-space; font 12). You will also include a work cited page (see NOTE 3 below).
Things to keep in mind.
- Canvas & Turnitin cannot read PAGES or GOOGLE documents. Microsoft Word document or PDF is best. Follow the guidelines. The strict guidelines, like everything in this particular class, are to help train students for the future in which employers will be testing prospective employees on their ability to follow instructions (which includes anticipating uploading problems and problem solving) as much as their ability to write original, rich and concise content.
- *How do I submit a Turnitin assignment? https://community.canvaslms.com/docs/DOC-3119 (Links to an external site.)
–the following link shows how to download a digital receipt” https://citl.indiana.edu/files/pdf/handouts/tii_submit-illustr.pdf (Links to an external site.)
NOTE 1: When a text is quoted or paraphrased, you must cite the page number parenthetically. For example:
According to Keyes, the concept of rapping in hip hop can be traced from “African bardic traditions to black oral expressive forms of the South” (2002:39), implying that…
- Make sure you use clear and poignant examples to support your argument(s). Best papers in an assignment this short will keep paraphrases and quotes to a minimum, but when citations are necessary, they must be cited correctly. Writing help? Take a look at MLA Style Guide online: https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/747/01/(Links to an external site.) (Links to an external site.)
NOTE 2: Good writing is important. UNDISCLOSED POINT DEDUCTION for papers that have not been proofread. Use spellcheck and grammar check and/or go to the writing tutorial services on campus: http://www.indiana.edu/~wts/
NOTE 3: While we provide the sources for this assignment it is good practice to demonstrate you know how to cite your sources properly. If you use an outside source (lyrics from rap.genius.com, a quote from the film Style Wars, etc.), you must include it in your work cited page. Need help with the Works Cited page? Take a look at MLA Style Guide online: https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/747/01/ (Links to an external site.) (Links to an external site.)
NOTE 4: Anticipate problems with server or Wi-Fi connection or any of life’s unexpected events. There is a generous window period to get this short assignment accomplished. Get your work done early. I recommend submitting as early as possible so that you can check your Canvas folder and see your document and date of submission. No Excuses!!! You will/can receive a receipt from CANVAS.
NOTE 5: Emails sent to me with your paper attached or a screen capture of the date you completed the essay but did not submit it will be deleted.
NOTE 6: I will post grades within a week.
ANSWER
Unraveling the Complexities of Hip Hop: Defining the Elusive Culture
Introduction
Hip hop, a multifaceted cultural phenomenon, has been subject to diverse and often conflicting interpretations throughout its history. As we embark on this exploration, let us delve into the complex and inconsistent definitions that have shaped the discourse surrounding “hip hop” and “rap.” It is within this intricate web of definitions that we encounter the challenge of understanding the true essence of hip hop. By examining a selection of definitions, we can shed light on the diverse perspectives within the hip hop community and media critics, revealing the fluid and evolving nature of this cultural movement.
To comprehend the complexities of hip hop, it is crucial to acknowledge that the term “hip hop” encompasses various dimensions, including music, dance, visual art, and a broader cultural expression. It is an ever-evolving entity influenced by the experiences and perspectives of diverse communities. In this context, the term “we” represents both members of the hip hop community and individuals engaged in the discourse surrounding this cultural phenomenon.
Claim: The definitions of “hip hop” present a paradoxical mix of artistic freedom, social critique, and cultural inclusivity, while also highlighting the challenges and misinterpretations that arise from its multifaceted nature.
Problematizing Definitions
One definition that reflects the artistic and expressive nature of hip hop is provided by Michael Eric Dyson, who describes hip hop as an art form employing literary and artistic conventions to convey its messages. However, this definition fails to capture the complexities and social dynamics within the hip hop community, such as the objectification of women, as expressed by Lady Pink.
Additionally, Kevin Powell’s definition emphasizes the origins of hip hop as a vehicle for inner-city youth, highlighting its cultural significance and economic opportunities. However, the definition offered by Jack Chick, which associates hip hop with Satanism, showcases the misrepresentations and biases that have plagued the genre.
Counterargument
One potential counterargument might be that hip hop should be solely defined by its musical elements. However, such a limited perspective overlooks the broader cultural and social aspects that make hip hop a powerful and transformative movement.
Recognizing Biases
As a fan of hip hop culture, it is important to critically examine the contradictions and nuances within the community. Acknowledging the influence of female participants, addressing historical contexts, and exploring the impact of hip hop on various communities allows for a more comprehensive understanding.
Importance of Critical Thinking
Engaging in critical thinking is essential when discussing hip hop as it encourages us to challenge authoritative voices and prevailing notions. Nas’s exclusionary definition of hip hop or Dr. Dyson’s scholarly perspective must be subject to critical scrutiny to ensure a comprehensive understanding of hip hop’s rich tapestry.
Conclusion
The definitions of “hip hop” highlight the intricate and ever-evolving nature of this cultural phenomenon. By problematizing selected definitions, we recognize the complexities and contradictions that exist within hip hop. Engaging in critical thinking and challenging authoritative voices enable us to foster a more nuanced understanding of hip hop’s multifaceted identity. As we continue to explore hip hop’s rich tapestry, it is crucial to embrace the diverse perspectives, histories, and social dynamics that shape this captivating cultural movement.
