History of Hip Hop

Origins of Hip Hop
THE ICON COLLECTIVE
Hip Hop History: From The Streets To The Mainstream
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Birth of Hip Hop : DJ Cool Herc
August 11, 1973
HISTORY.COM
Hip Hop Is Born At A Birthday Party In The Bronx
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The 4 Elements of Hip Hop

1. DJ

Introduction of “the Breaks”,”Merry Go Round” and “Scratchin” made Hip Hop DJ’s different than any other. DJ Cool Herc, Grandmaster Flash and Africa Bombaataa are the “Holy Trinity” of Hip Hop DJ’s and they changed the landscape of DJing in New York City.

History of DJ // Click Here

2. Writing (Graffiti)

Making a huge cultural impact in NYC during the hip hop era had youth using Spray Paint to “Write” and “Tag” areas of the city helped give these youth recognition in their community.

History of Graffiti and Terminology // Click Here

3. Breakin

The Dance of Hip Hop was inspired by James Brown’s music and early Kung Fu Films and encompassed 4 elements of Top Rock, Down Rock ( or Foot work), Power Moves and Freezes. Pioneers of the style are Rock Steady Crew and the New York City Breaker.

History of Breakin and Terminology // Click Here

4. MCing or Rap

Rhythym And Poetry - Rhythmic delivery to music has a long and interconnected history going back way before the first rap song. The first DJ’s often used Emcees to hype the crowd up and they often developed rhymes to engage the crowds at parties.

History of Rap and Terminology // Click Here