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Hip hop is a genre of music that originated in the African-American and Latino communities in the Bronx, New York City, during the 1970s. It is characterized by its rhythmic beats, spoken word lyrics, and an emphasis on self-expression and storytelling. Hip hop encompasses various elements, including rap, DJing, breakdancing, and graffiti art, creating a vibrant and multifaceted culture.
The earliest hip hop music was performed live, at house parties and block party events, and it was not recorded. Prior to 1979, recorded hip hop music consisted mainly of PA system soundboard recordings of live party shows and early hip hop mixtapes by DJs. Puerto Rican DJ Disco Wiz is credited as the first hip hop DJ to create a "mixed plate," or mixed dub recording, when, in 1977, he combined sound bites, special effects and paused beats to technically produce a sound recording. The first hip hop record is widely regarded to be the Sugarhill Gang's "Rapper's Delight", from 1979. It was the first hip hop record to gain widespread popularity in the mainstream and was where hip hop music got its name from (from the opening bar). However, much controversy surrounds this assertion as some regard the March 1979 single "King Tim III (Personality Jock)" by the Fatback Band, as a rap record.There are various other claimants for the title of first hip hop record.
At its core, hip hop serves as a powerful form of social commentary, addressing topics such as racism, inequality, urban life, and personal experiences. Artists use their lyrics to convey messages, share their perspectives, and shed light on societal issues. The genre has become a platform for marginalized voices, giving a voice to those who have been historically underrepresented in mainstream media.
Hip hop music is known for its innovative production techniques, incorporating samples from various genres, such as funk, soul, jazz, and R&B. DJs play a crucial role in hip hop, using turntables and mixing techniques to create intricate beats and rhythms. The art of rap, with its clever wordplay, rhyme schemes, and storytelling abilities, has become a defining element of the genre.Over the years, hip hop has evolved and diversified, giving rise to various sub-genres and styles, including conscious rap, gangsta rap, trap, and alternative hip hop.