Rap Music
Rap music, often synonymous with hip-hop music, is a genre of music that originated in the United States in the 1970s, particularly within African American, Latino, and Caribbean American communities in New York City. It is characterized by its rhythmic speech that, unlike singing, is delivered in a rhythmic and rhyming manner, often accompanied by a musical beat.
History
The roots of rap music can be traced back to:
- 1970s: The emergence of DJ Kool Herc who is credited with originating hip-hop by using two turntables to extend the break in funk records, creating a continuous beat for dancers.
- 1979: The first rap record to gain widespread popularity was "Rapper's Delight" by The Sugarhill Gang. This track played a pivotal role in introducing rap to a broader audience.
- 1980s: Rap music began to diversify. Key developments included the rise of Def Jam Recordings, which helped popularize acts like LL Cool J and Run-DMC. The genre also saw the emergence of political and socially conscious rap with groups like Public Enemy.
- 1990s: This era was marked by the East Coast-West Coast rivalry, with notable figures like The Notorious B.I.G. from New York and Tupac Shakur from the West Coast. The period also saw the growth of gangsta rap, with artists like Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg.
- 2000s and Beyond: Rap music evolved further, with the mainstream success of artists like Eminem, Kanye West, and the rise of Southern hip-hop with artists like OutKast and Lil Wayne. The genre has also seen a global expansion, influencing and being influenced by music cultures worldwide.
Characteristics
Rap music is defined by:
- Rhyme Scheme: The use of rhyme, often with complex schemes, is a cornerstone of rap.
- Flow: The rhythm and cadence of the rapper's voice over the beat.
- Beat: Typically, rap music uses loops or samples of other music, which are often manipulated by a DJ or producer.
- Lyrics: Topics can range from personal narratives, social commentary, braggadocio, to political messages.
Subgenres and Styles
Rap music encompasses various subgenres:
Influence and Cultural Impact
Rap has not only influenced music but also fashion, language, and dance. It has become a platform for social commentary, political activism, and personal expression, significantly impacting global youth culture.
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