Hip Hop Music

Hey All!

So lets talk hip hop music!

Something I know absolutely nothing about! But if you are like me then you are in luck because coming to Oxy there are several opportunities to learn about Hip Hop! The Global Hip Hop series is coming to Oxy. There are lectures, screenings, and a variety of events coming to enlighten those of us who are less than knowledgeable about the workings of hip hop!

Recently (yesterday) I attended the "I got an Attitude" Lecture and it was a great introduction to the workings of hip hop. Before, my knowledge of hip hop extended to Snoop Doggy Dog and now I understand why. According to the speaker, the new wave of hip hop that was ushered in with the 90's and now is much different than the self expression that defined the genre when it originally came out in the 70's and 80's.

The original hip hop is about empowerment and self-expression and the examples that I heard I really enjoyed and was impressed. Rather than embarrassed and confused by the "pimp" image of todays rap that glorifies violence and degrades women. The speaker made excellent points about all of these things and helped me understand the value of hip hop.

So more importantly now, the other events that can be equally enlightening for you should you decide to take part in the hip hop series:

Friday, October 29th there is an OPEN MIC even. Thats right! A real live demonstration of what hip hop really is. The formal title for the event is "Word, Yo!" with Slam Champion Nikki Black. Plus, the event is located conveniently at the cooler at 7:00 pm. So come get your weekend started with a slam champion!

The next event is a screening of Estilo Hip Hop in Fowler 302 and it is about hip hop in Chile, Cuba, and Brazil. Also in Fowler 302, is a screening of Blacking Up: Hip-Hop's Remix of Race and Identity on Monday November 8th at four and a screening of Hip-Hop Colony on Wednesday November 17th at seven. So be at Fowler 302!

The lecture on Hip-Hop was great and I highly encourage everyone to take the to engage in a culture that is misunderstood and fun to be a part of!

See you at the Open Mic!

A Freshman Music Major