Hip hop blends a variety of musical sounds from disco to soul into an unmistakable mix of extended beats, repetitive rhythms, and in many cases, spoken word poetry. During the 1970’s when block parties become popular, especially in city neighborhoods like the Bronx, DJs would combine various sounds and beats from records through scratching and crossfading. The results were isolated sounds (extended drum beats and musical hooks) played in sequence to form a new sound.
Used as a backdrop for break dancers, hip hop has evolved over the years to become a well-known and respected genre. Hip hop is much more than one sample played over and over. Most hip hop DJs create unique sounds that may never be heard again – it’s a magical music form that allows people be creative and impulsive at the same time.
Where to Find Hip Hop Records
Many hip hop artists still release singles on vinyl. Many used record and book stores have a section dedicated to hip hop albums. You can also find these kinds of records online or through estate sales and auctions or by contacting record dealers to see what they have on hand.
Because of the popularity of hip hop, there are many records available which means they aren’t as valuable as other musical genres. Some of the earliest recordings (late 70’s and early 80’s) may be collector’s items, however. Look for albums featuring Afrika Bambaataa, DJ Kool Herc, DJ Hollywood, and Grandmaster Flash if collecting early recordings.
1980’s Hip Hop
Famous acts like Run DMC, the Beastie Boys, and LL Cool J helped turn hip hop mainstream. Politically motivated, these artists turned hip hop from street music into a platform in which to bring awareness to many social ills like poverty and racial inequality.
It was also during this time that rap music became popular. Taking a cue from hip hop, rap was also used by many artists including Ice-T and N.W.A as a platform to discuss the injustices of society.
1990’s Hip Hop
Many artists performing in the 1980’s helped move hip hop into the 90’s. Other artists like MC Hammer helped make the genre even more mainstream. It was during this time that hip hop divided into ‘West Coast’ and ‘East Coast.’ Artists on both coasts took the genre and made it their own. Even though the spilt caused some animosity amongst artists, hip hop continued to gain in popularity world-wide.
Hip Hop Today
Hip hop has undergone many changes since it began in the late 1970’s. Many successful artists now incorporate elements of hip hop into their music. With roots in disco, funk, and soul music, hip hop is a versatile genre that can easily adapt to new types of music.
Other musical forms like dubstep take from hip hop to create new and unique sounds. Much darker than traditional hip hop, dubstep relies on repetitive rhythms, drum beats, and record turntables to create a smooth transition between beats.