Ronald Reagan may have been known as ‘The Great Communicator,’ but rap artists don’t view his legacy through such rose-colored glasses. A professor of Black studies and history takes a closer look.
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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.
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.
Despite the attention paid by the press when two Black hip-hop artists signaled their support for Donald Trump, they do not represent swelling enthusiasm for Trump from young, Black men.
In voicing youthful outrage over inequality and violence, Bangladeshi rappers are creating a powerful form of protest music — just as American MCs have done for 40 years.
50 Cent was caught dishing dirt with revenge porn aimed at the girlfriend of his rival. He hopes to beat the rap by declaring bankruptcy. But can he?
Top contributors
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Assistant Professor of Hip-Hop, University of Virginia
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Adjunct Research Fellow, Humanitarian and Development Research Initiative, Western Sydney University
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Professor of Law, The Ohio State University
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Professor of Black Studies and History, Amherst College
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Fellow, Center for Congressional and Presidential Studies, American University
