It all started on Aug. 11, 1973.
(These details are now the stuff of legend.)
Many said it would be a fad, like so many pop-cultural trends before and after.
But in the 50 years since that fateful event, hip-hop has entrenched itself in our society.
I became aware of hip-hop as a college student in late 70s New York.
It was the antithesis of disco glamour.
You could wear sneakers and baseball caps and be part of the party.
Much of modern hip-hop sounds nothing like the old-school beats I heard back in the day.
But by remaining a potent medium of youthful expression, hip-hop has stayed contemporary.
Over the decades, detractors have come after hip-hop.
African American church groups.
Politicians of both major parties.
Yes, at times, much hip-hop has been raw, rude and viewed as a niche expression.
But the attacks reaffirmed the value to its fans.
While critics disdained its language, there was an unrestrained honesty that spoke to younger people.
And hip-hop was an underdog, fighting for respect from the makers of rock,jazzandcountry.
it’s possible for you to even hear rapping and trap beats in some country songs today.
It isnt only America.
Travel to South Korea, Brazil, Poland or South Africa practically anywhere and hip-hop scenes proliferate.
And it all started at a small party in the Bronx.
Essential playlist
Nelson George lists these as the most important tracks in 50 years of hip-hop.
Chuck D, Flavor Flav and the Bomb Squad production team delivered a sonic assault.
