3.00 Credits
H 320. Hip-Hop Culture and Politics. 3(3,0). This course will examine the history, content, legacy, and controversy of the music known as Hip-Hop. It will begin with a historical analysis that seeks to understand how the artistic expression of the ignored American underclass has evolved into unimaginable economic success with a worldwide cultural impact in only four decades. We will then begin to analyze the content of the music. Far from being simply the frustrated rantings of the urban poor, Hip-Hop music simultaneously reflects and influences the way that American youth view politics, capitalism, sexuality, education, racial stereotypes, and gender roles. Along the way, we will also address the various controversies that have arisen around the music, including criticism of its attitude toward women, violence, homosexuality, and educational achievement. This course will combine scholarship and theory with considerable audio and video exposure to various Hip-Hop songs and artists.