How to Appreciate Hip-Hop Music

Hip-hop is one of the most vibrant, interesting musical genres. Over the past 4 decades, hip-hop has taken many forms. The lyrics can be uplifting or somber, funny or violent. Hip-hop fans know that there's much more to the music than hot beats and larger-than-life rap stars. This uniquely American art form has a rich history, and people of all ages can appreciate this type of music.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Understand the "four elements." Hip-hop is made up of four major components: the DJ, the MC, the dancers and the graffiti artists. All four of these groups of people are vital to hip-hop culture. Some hip-hop shows, particularly those looking to revive the feel of early 1980s, will incorporate all four elements.

2. Read about the history of hip-hop. Many music scholars say that hip-hop is far more than just a music form--it's a culture. Authors such as Jeff Chang and Oliver Wang have written extensively about the past and present of hip-hop.

3. Listen to albums from many different time periods. Hip-hop exists on a continuum. For example, when you listen to a new song, you might hear a sample from classic hip-hop acts like Grandmaster Flash or the Sugarhill Gang.

4. Watch documentaries and other films that explore hip-hop culture. The movie "Wild Style" features all four elements of hip-hop. The "Art of 16 Bars" series of rap documentaries include artists from Rakim to MC Lyte to Kanye West.

5. Attend seminars and lectures about hip-hop music and hip-hop activism. Nonprofit groups such as the Hip Hop Congress have chapters all around the country, where they educate people about hip-hop history and culture.

Resources

• Appreciate hip-hop music at Hip Hop Congress events nationwide.
• Read about hip-hop music at Jeff Chang's website.