Summer I/Unit IV

We've reached the end of our class.  This is usually the time where I like to ask you to reflect on what you've learned.  What stood out to you the most and why?  Yesterday, many of you indicated that there is a future for Hip-Hop.  If you believe this, where do you anticipate its next impact?  And, we must remember that sometimes impact can be both positive and negative.  Thank you!  I look forward to your responses! Due by Wed., 6/22/16 by 9:30am EST.

Summer I/Unit III

In HH, death resonates loudly.  However, a way that artists have found to pay homage to their "dead homies," is through tribute songs.  I've included one famous video above to demonstrate how those in HH mourn.  Like many things, death in HH is complex.  Some treat it as a novelty while others embrace it as part of their lifestyle.  TuPac was one who never denied the death that surrounded him.  Even after his death, the artist, Scarface, pays tribute to him in the song, "Smile."  I've also included that video link below. 

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L0Vk0EL-r8g


I'd like to know, are tribute songs an appropriate way to grieve, or has the industry found another way to capitalize on the death of others?

Summer I/Unit II - Queerness in HH

We've discussed quite a bit for this Unit about gendered identity traits as well as heteronormative characteristics.  Our juxtaposition of these within the realm of Hip-Hop (HH) could've continued for weeks.  Unfortunately, time was against that.  However, a comment came up that has intrigued me for awhile.  It is: HH influences so many things around it like, fashion, hair, jewelry, etc.  But I think it's important to also recognize how street culture/i.e. prison narratives have affected some aspects of "queerness" in HH.  For example: Dyson explained to us that saggy pants mimic prison culture, and he explains why - easy access.  I use the terminology street culture/prison narratives interchangeably because research indicates many who are incarcerated are from a poor working class background.  So, how has street culture/i.e. prison narratives have affected some aspects of "queerness" in HH?