Draft:Experimental Hip-Hop

  Experimental Hip-Hop   Experimental or alternative hip-hop is a type of hip-hop music that plays around with unconventional elements, often including abstract lyrics, in ways that are not typical for traditional hip-hop. While some people use "abstract hip-hop" and "experimental hip-hop" interchangeably, they are a bit different. Abstract hip-hop focuses specifically on hip-hop with abstract lyrics, while experimental hip-hop covers a broader range of hip-hop that pushes the boundaries of what is expected. This kind of hip-hop is often made using electronic methods and might mix in elements from other sub-genres like jazz rap, turntablism, rap rock, plunderphonics, lo-fi hip-hop, and industrial hip-hop.

Now, what exactly qualifies as experimental or alternative hip-hop can be debated. For this article, we have cast a wide net: the albums we are talking about are all forward-thinking, innovative, creative, and unique – the one thing they share is that they are all different from what you would typically expect from hip-hop. Some of these albums lean towards the industrial or noisy side of hip-hop, while others might have more of a neo-soul, jazz, or rock vibe.

Brief History of Experimental Hip-hop
Experimental hip-hop started in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Artists wanted to try new things with hip-hop music. They mixed it with jazz and funk, using live instruments and making songs in different ways. They also got ideas from world music, using rhythms and melodies from around the world. This made experimental hip-hop sound different from traditional hip-hop. Artists were curious and wanted to explore new sounds and styles, so they blended different types of music together to create something unique.

Characteristics
Experimental hip-hop is a genre of music that combines elements of hip-hop with another genre e.g. rock, jazz, funk, soul, electronic, and reggae. It’s seen as a progressive or creative form of hip-hop and as a commercialization of mainstream hip-hop. Which mostly artists often focus on social and political issues and use their music to express their views or vision.

Notable Artists
Kanye West - Originally, the song highlighted the experiences of black people, mixing soul, funk, and electronic sounds. Later, religious themes were added, bringing in God's message, and enhancing its uplifting tone. Kanye West is a major force in rap, challenging stereotypes by diversifying themes beyond crime and money. Many top rappers credit him with influencing their work. He popularized musical techniques still used today, such as experimenting with 808 machines and autotune, reshaping rap's sound. Kanye's impact extends beyond music, sparking discussions about race, religion, and creativity. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the genre and the cultural landscape as a whole. Through it all, Ye has remained a conduit for listeners—artists and fans alike—to actualize their dreams with his music as the soundtrack. '“If you’re a Kanye West fan, you’re not a fan of me. You’re a fan of yourself,”''' Ye told Zane Lowe in 2017. '''“You will believe in yourself. I’m just the espresso. I’m just the shot in the morning to get you going, to make you believe you can overcome that situation that you’re dealing with.”' Tyler the Creator - Originally, the song was gritty, portraying gang life, influenced by its tough culture. But Tyler, the Creator evolved it to embrace all genders, including LGBTQ, earning a Grammy. He has diversified hip-hop by championing inclusivity and shattering stereotypes. Supporting artistic freedom, he has fostered a more inclusive music community. Through innovative production and heartfelt lyrics, Tyler has reshaped the industry, inspiring a new wave of artists. His influence extends to smaller bands, encouraging them to challenge conventions. In a dynamic music landscape, he leads with authenticity, enriching the industry for artists and fans alike. Tyler consistently teaches us to be ourselves and forget what anyone might think about us. He put it best when he said '“I think I’m cool. That’s all that matters.”' What a way to live. Kendrick Lamar - Starting, Kendrick Lamar's songs reflected his experiences as a black man, addressing bullying and life struggles to inspire positive change in society and culture. Primarily jazz-inspired, his music resonates deeply. With numerous nominations, Kendrick delivers powerful performances. From "The Blacker the Berry," tackling racial prejudices, to "Alright," inspiring hope akin to the Black Lives Matter movement, and "Untitled 05," exploring institutional racism, Kendrick captivates with his artistry. Beyond showcasing his talent, his performances serve as poignant social commentary, establishing him as a revered artist and cultural icon. “I’m the biggest hypocrite of 2015,” he says, invoking his most controversial line Mac Miller - Mac Mille r draws inspiration from his life for his songs. When he faced a breakup and struggled with drug addiction, he channeled those experiences into music with a funky, soulful style, experimenting with fresh chords. Despite hip-hop's emphasis on "gangsta" personas and black artists, Miller, a white artist without gimmicks, found success. His 2012 mixtape "Macadelic" was a hit, showcasing his versatility and inspiring listeners to persevere through challenges. It proved Miller's music could resonate with all audiences, setting the stage for more innovative projects. In a genre dominated by “gangstas” and black people, Mac Miller maintained a successful rap career despite being white, not a “gangsta”, and without gimmicks. Amine - His songs blend rapping and singing, typical in hip hop, but he has innovated by incorporating jazz and samba elements. In the "Caroline" video, his infectious joy marked him as a unique hip-hop outsider, influenced by Tyler, the Creator's energetic style, and the emotional depth of the Native Tongues group. His debut album "Good for You," set for release on July 28, mixes Southern rap, pop, indie rock, and more, making it a standout in the hip-hop scene and a daring venture into unconventional pop music. He was determined to release his album during the summer — “When who I truly am as a person shines,” he said — but his music, and what comes with it, has been far more complex than mere sunny brightness.

Culture of experimental Hip-hop
Hip-hop is more than just music. It is a cultural movement that includes different forms of art like turntablism, rapping, breaking, and graffiti. These expressions led to subcultures with lasting impacts. It sparked a cultural revolution that spread worldwide, shaping music, fashion, technology, art, entertainment, language, dance, education, politics, media, and more. Nowadays, hip-hop is a global phenomenon, constantly evolving and creating new art forms that affect both young and old. “Rap is something you do; hip-hop is something you live.” KRS One. Hip-hop history: from the streets to the mainstream. (2023, May 23). https://www.iconcollective.edu/hip-hop-history

In the early 1970s, hip-hop emerged in the Bronx, New York City. It reflected the challenges of post-industrial decline, political issues, and a changing economy. The economic collapse led to the decline of manufacturing industries and the construction of the Cross Bronx Expressway. As a result, the white middle class moved to the suburbs, causing shifts in demographics and segregated communities. Rising crime, gang violence, and poverty increased, prompting urban youth to seek recreation and self-expression in the streets. Abandoned buildings became venues for block parties, laying the foundation for early hip-hop culture. The golden age of hip-hop transformed the culture as it spread across the country. It exploded with diversity, influence, stylistic innovation, and mainstream success. Hip-hop music continued to experiment by creating new scenes and styles. Advanced drum machines and samplers allowed hip-hop to reach new heights. Sampling music without copyright laws became a defining characteristic, often incorporating samples from various genres like jazz and rock. Lyrics also evolved, performed over complex, multi-layered instrumental arrangements. By the late 1990s, hip-hop became the top-selling music genre. Different regional styles emerged, including West Coast hip-hop, gangster hip-hop, Southern rap, and rap rock. Hip-hop fashion became mainstream, with various clothes, shoes, accessories, and hairstyles serving as forms of expression. Street slang, like "bling" and "fo'shizzle," even made its way into the Oxford English Dictionary. Hip-hop's impact extends beyond music and fashion. It serves as a platform for social and political expression, addressing issues like poverty, racism, and police violence. Hip-hop visual expressions, such as graffiti, gained recognition despite initial criticism, elevating artists and their cultural representation. In essence, hip-hop is a lifestyle, encompassing creativity, resilience, and self-expression. It has a force that continues to shape and influence society, resonating with people of all ages and backgrounds.

Social impact of experimental Hip-hop
Hip-hop is not just about music; it is about speaking up for social movements. People use lyrics to talk about real-life issues like poverty, racism, and police violence, even if they are not professional musicians. This helps them fight against unfair treatment by the government. Hip-hop is becoming more important in popular music. It helps oppressed people claim their right to make their own choices. Hip-hop is not just about music; it is a whole culture. It is even changing fashion, with brands like Adidas and Kangol creating clothes that fit the hip-hop style. Fashion is a big part of being a hip-hop artist. They wear flashy accessories like gold necklaces and rings, and women's hip-hop groups wear big earrings and Kangol hats to show off their status and wealth. Graffiti is also a big part of hip-hop. Even though it used to have a bad reputation, it is now seen as a way for artists to represent their culture and gain fame. Hip-hop is a way for people to express their anger and stand up against injustice. It is important to look at hip-hop through a social lens because it reflects the struggles that many people face worldwide. Let's listen together to the sounds of revolution.

== References   ==