In the five decades since hip-hop emerged out of New York City, it spread around the country and the world. And at each step there's been change and adaptation, as new, different voices came in and made it their own. It’s touched everything, from art and fashion to sports and social justice.
Hip-hop came to life in the 1970s Bronx, mired in urban decay, poverty and gang violence but filled with resilience, creativity and grit.
Women have been a part of hip-hop since its debut, battling for their space and to have their voices heard. As hip-hop marks 50 years, female rappers are taking their moment to shine – while still demanding respect and facing decades-old challenges.
Hip-hop has never held back from calling it like it is, especially when it comes to protest and social justice. That’s not just in the U.S. – it’s been adopted as the medium of resistance around the globe.
Hip-hop’s popularity and influence hasn’t just been in music – it’s touched everything from high-end fashion to fast food.
No other sport has had the relationship with hip-hop that basketball has. From the playgrounds to the big leagues, hip-hop has become the game’s soundtrack.
The song DOESN’T remain the same, when it comes to hip-hop. It’s the ultimate in self-expression and that’s meant artists in different geographies and time periods taking it on and doing it their own way.