Updated 4/15 1:27 AM Pacific

This is an official megathread to discuss and satirize hip-hop, the music genre that originated in the early 1970s and has grown to dominate music and culture in the United States and many other countries.

Please keep all posts that discuss or satirize the genre of hip-hop, including its related music, artists and fanbases, in this thread.

From now on, posts by non-approved users will be subject to manual review to ensure they do not overlap with discussion of hip-hop, which belongs in this thread.

Timeline of Events

Here's a summary of the history of hip-hop, covering its origins, evolution, key milestones, classic albums, and notable rap beefs.

Introduction to Hip-Hop

Hip-hop emerged in the South Bronx of New York City in the 1970s as a cultural movement encompassing music, dance, graffiti art, and fashion. Rooted in African American and Afro-Caribbean communities, hip-hop provided a creative outlet for marginalized youth to express themselves and address social issues.

Early Years and Pioneers

In the early years of hip-hop, DJs like Kool Herc, Afrika Bambaataa, and Grandmaster Flash pioneered the use of turntables and breakbeats, laying the foundation for rap music. Emcees began rapping over beats at block parties and park jams, and the genre started to gain traction.

The Golden Age of Hip-Hop (1980s-1990s)

The 1980s and 1990s are often regarded as the golden age of hip-hop, marked by artistic innovation, social commentary, and commercial success. Classic albums from this era include:

1. "Illmatic" by Nas (1994): Nas' debut album is hailed as a masterpiece of lyricism and storytelling, offering a vivid portrayal of life in the Queensbridge housing projects.
2. "The Chronic" by Dr. Dre (1992): Dr. Dre's solo debut album revolutionized West Coast hip-hop with its G-funk sound and laid-back grooves, featuring hits like "Nuthin' but a 'G' Thang."
3. "Ready to Die" by The Notorious B.I.G. (1994): Biggie's debut album showcased his unparalleled flow and introspective lyrics, exploring themes of struggle, success, and mortality.
4. "Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)" by Wu-Tang Clan (1993): Wu-Tang's groundbreaking debut introduced the world to their unique blend of kung-fu imagery, streetwise lyricism, and raw production.
5. "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill" by Lauryn Hill (1998): Lauryn Hill's solo debut fused hip-hop, R&B, and soul, earning critical acclaim and multiple Grammy Awards for its social commentary and emotional depth.

Notable Rap Beefs

Throughout hip-hop's history, rivalries and beefs between artists have captivated audiences and shaped the culture. Here are five notable rap beefs:

1. KRS-One vs. MC Shan (1986): The Bridge Wars between KRS-One of Boogie Down Productions and MC Shan of the Juice Crew highlighted the rivalry between the Bronx and Queensbridge hip-hop scenes.
2. Ice Cube vs. N.W.A (1991): Ice Cube's departure from N.W.A led to a bitter feud between him and his former group members, particularly Dr. Dre and Eazy-E, with diss tracks like "No Vaseline" and "Real Niggaz" escalating tensions.
3. Tupac Shakur vs. The Notorious B.I.G. (1990s): The East Coast-West Coast rivalry reached its peak with the feud between Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G., culminating in violent incidents and diss tracks like "Hit 'Em Up" and "Who Shot Ya?"
4. Jay-Z vs. Nas (2001): The feud between Jay-Z and Nas, sparked by lyrical jabs in tracks like "Ether" and "Takeover," evolved into one of the most iconic rivalries in rap history.
5. 50 Cent vs. Ja Rule (2000s): Personal and professional animosity fueled the feud between 50 Cent and Ja Rule, resulting in a series of diss tracks and public exchanges, including "Wanksta" and "Loose Change."

Mainstream Success and Global Influence

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, hip-hop achieved mainstream success and expanded its influence globally. Artists like Eminem, Jay-Z, and Kanye West broke barriers and shattered stereotypes, bringing hip-hop to new audiences around the world.

Diversification and Subgenres

As hip-hop continued to evolve, it diversified into various subgenres and regional styles, including gangsta rap, conscious rap, trap music, and alternative hip-hop. Artists like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Chance the Rapper emerged as leading voices, pushing the boundaries of the genre.

Social and Political Impact

Hip-hop has always been a vehicle for social and political commentary, addressing issues such as racism, inequality, police brutality, and the struggles of urban life. Artists like Public Enemy, Tupac Shakur, and Killer Mike have used their platforms to advocate for change and empower marginalized communities.

Conclusion

Hip-hop's journey from the streets of the Bronx to the global stage is a testament to its resilience, creativity, and cultural significance. As the genre continues to evolve, it remains a powerful force for artistic expression, social activism, and cultural identity, shaping the lives of millions around the world.

This is an ongoing genre of music, and this thread will be updated as events unfold.

37m english teacher here. this isn’t like the ukraine thing where everyone on twitter told me who was hairy and so idk who to root for. it was easy when j cole dropped (for obvious reasons) but now he’s out of it. explain in harry potter terms

Everyone gets turned off because they can’t turn up to this. Rap today is mindless. All people want 808s and easy repetitive lyrics. This shit is poetry. A deep look into this mans mind. I love it.