Since rap music emerged in mainstream culture in the late 1980s, politicians have derided its lyrics and imagery as violent. Over the years, rap has become an easy target to blame for violence.
Young Thug performs onstage on March 17, 2022, in Austin, Texas.
Amy E. Price/Getty Images for SXSW
Since rap music emerged in mainstream culture in the late 1980s, conservatives have derided its lyrics and imagery as violent. But hip-hop artists argue those images reflect urban realities.
Superstar rapper, Kanye West.
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