Themes
What did many hip-hop groups come to glorify?
The degradation of black women, hate, prejudice, violence, drugs, and the rise of the hustler icon
Define "livelihood"
"the means, activities, and resources a person or household uses to earn a living and secure basic life necessities such as food, water, shelter, and clothing"
What was the author's final opinion on the discussed subject?
She states: "whether hip-hop has been ruined or elevated is subjective, and in reality, it's likely a mix of both." and "I am left with uncertainty"
What does the author argue leads to the emphasis on "gangsta" and "hustler" roles of black artists?
The commercialization of hip-hop
"gangsta rap" spread to white teens --> becomes product to sell --> industries want "gangstas" because that's what sells
Define "commercialism"
"the practice, spirit, or philosophy of commerce and business that focuses primarily or solely on maximizing profit and generating financial gain"
When was the peak of golden age hip-hop?
1991-1993
What does Karis Rivers describe the commercialization of hip-hop lead to?
A diluted genre centered in violence and misogyny
What does Karis Rivers argue that "hustlers" or "gangsters" mean/represent?
Success by any means necessary, whether they represent the hero or anti-hero. She states that they are a "complex reality" as well as icons
What was the INITIAL goal of the hip-hop group N.W.A?
To take on the livelihoods of figures like hustlers or gangstas and tell their stories. They specifically discussed issues close to the communities from which they came from. They also addressed major political and racial issues.
In what ways does the Black community generally use/view the INITIAL values of hip-hop?
They use it as a creative tool for expression and a way of living. They view it as a culmination of the history, language, and media of the black community. Black and brown communities use hip-hop to uplift themselves from the struggles that plague their communities.
"a specific form of anti-Black racist misogyny that targets Black women and girls"
What does the use of hip-hop during the crack epidemic encourage and what outcome does it lead to?
Encourages: black unity, resistance, racial pride, and empowerment
--> "by uniting, the community could reclaim its power and fight against the daunting systems at play"
DOUBLE POINTS: Name one of the black women listed by the author when she explains how many tried to oppose misogynoir with their music
Queen Latifah, Missy Elliot, Lauryn Hill