So today we celebrate 50 years since the birth of the hip hop movement, which emerged in a basement in New York’s South Bronx. This culture has become one of the major forces of pop music, and its influence has spread to France.
The history of hip hop dates back to that famous party on August 11, 1973, organized by Cindy Campbell in the Rec Room in the South Bronx. This evening brought together different representatives of the emerging hip hop culture: rappers, graffiti artists, break dancers and of course, DJs. It was DJ Kool Herc, with his turntables and his mixer, who marked this symbolic day by launching the first beats of this revolutionary movement.
Before reaching the status of a global phenomenon, hip hop had precursors in the United States, such as The Last Poets, the Watts Prophets and Gil Scott-Heron, who paved the way for the style of political poetry chanted on jazz-funk rhythms. However, it was the success of Rappers’ Delight in 1979, performed by the Sugarhill Gang, that would really propel hip hop onto the international stage.
Since then, many artists have marked the world of hip hop with their innovations, their unique vocal flow, their committed lyrics and their varied musical influences. From Run-DMC to Eric B & Rakim, Public Enemy, NWA, Eminem and Kendrick Lamar, each new artist has brought their creativity and vision to this cultural movement.
In France, rap began to make a name for itself in the early 80s. Two outstanding figures, Rockin’ Squat from the group Assassin and Akhenaton from the group IAM, were among the first to become actively involved in French rap. They were inspired by their discoveries of American hip hop, but also knew how to bring a unique touch through their texts in French.
Over the years, French rap has developed and diversified, with the emergence of many talented artists with varied styles. Today, French hip hop is internationally recognized and continues to evolve with new talents pushing the boundaries of this movement.
In conclusion, hip hop is celebrating its 50th anniversary today, and its impact on music and culture is undeniable. From the South Bronx to France, this movement has transcended borders and brought people together around its music and its message. Whether through rap, graffiti, dance or DJing, hip hop continues to inspire and influence present and future generations