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Susanna Parkhill
Professor Malcolm Campbell
English 1103
9/28/15
The Hip Hop Revolution
Introduction/Overview
I will analyze the social significance of rap and hip hop music. I wish to find and explain
how this music has improved race relations and educated the public on the realities on inner city
life. I plan to give a brief history of hip hop and rap, then explain its cultural impact.
Hip hop has grown exponentially and surpassed racial boundaries. In the article, From
the Fringe: Hip Hop Culture and Ethnic Relations, Dr. Renford R. Reese states, Although
created by black youth on the street, hip hop's influence has become worldwide. Approximately
75 percent of the rap and hip hop audience is nonblack. It has gone from the fringes, to the
suburbs, and into the corporate boardrooms. Hip hop also brought socioeconomic and racial
problems to light. Gangsta rap artists such as NWA or Public Enemy revealed the harsh
realities of inner city life. Tupac rapped about racism and the need for peace. Despite ethnic
differences, hip hop has united all kinds of people not only through music, but also through
clothing, language, and a common struggle.
Thus far, Ive used internet research for this topic. The most valuable tools have been
scholarly articles about the social effects of hip hop. In addition, Ive used an online book that

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describes the history of hip hop, and a Time Magazine interview. I have also asked fans about
essential artists, albums, and songs.
Hip hop music is widely controversial because of its culture and lyrical content. Some
think it incites violence; its been blamed for mass shootings. Conversely, in her article The
Social Significance of Rap & Hip Hop Culture, Stanford professor Betty Blankard explains,
Hip-hop music is a symptom of cultural violence, not the cause. Some experts consider the
music to contain many positive messages. Dr. Reese concludes that hip hop ultimately represents
anti-racism and peace.
Initial Inquiry Question(s)
How has hip hop improved race relations in the United States?
How has hip hop raised awareness of the struggle of inner city life?
What does hip hop mean in the context of American society?
My Interest in this Topic
Im a musician, so Im interested in multiple musical genres. I like to analyze not only the
music itself, but its lyrics and meaning. Im also involved in politics and social issues. Though
Im not very familiar with hip hop and rap, I decided it would be a good topic because of my
musical and political interests. The social significance of hip hop is also a widely researched
topic, so there are many resources available.
Next Steps
I plan to interview hip hop/rap fans about their favorite artists and what the genre means
to them. I also want to take advantage of the librarys resources. I am also going to search NPR
and Rolling Stone magazine for articles related to hip hop and rap. Lastly, I plan to listen to more
hip hop and rap songs to gain a better understanding of the genre and my topic in general.

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