Articulating reality and speaking into existence: Hip-Hop and its potential for revolutionary activism and praxis in the role of the MC
A plethora of literature is available on Rap music, the MC and the MC's place in Hip-Hop history and Africanisms in the American society. However, little research has been done on the specificity of how MCs can and do make radical political and social change through their cultural practice. The purpose of this study is to observe and reveal some of the potential Hip-Hop has for revolutionary activism and revolutionary praxis in the role of the MC. This will be explored through literature analyses, documentary analyses, and an interview. An interview will be conducted with one MC or poet familiar with Hip-Hop culture. Upon completion, I expect to find: (1) Hip-Hop does have a potential for revolutionary activism and revolutionary praxis in the role of the MC, (2) there are hindrances - such as the corporate commerce of rap - to its potential that can prevent and are preventing its expression.
School:
University of Michigan
Department:
English and Afro American and African Studies
Research Advisor:
William Patterson
Department of Research Advisor:
African American Studies
Year of Publication:
2005