Gangsta rap is a subgenre of rap and started in the mid 80’s in America. It reflects the violent life-styles of inner-city youth and often deals with topics like sex and drugs which has made it controversial.

Historical roots

The act of speaking in rhyme over music has been around for thousands of years. The Griots are West African storytellers and musicians who tell a story whilst playing an instrument.

During the big parties of the 70’s the DJ’s e.g. DJ Hollywood would often call to the crowd who would in turn respond. This call and answer trend can be seen as far back as the time of the slaves in America who would sing as they were worked in the fields. It is still used in some churches today.

Some milestones in the history of Rap

Rapping is talking in rhyme to the rhythm of a beat.

Hip-hop is a culture or a way of life that includes rap, break dancing, DJing and graffiti.

Also known as MCingAn MC is a Master of Ceremonies. He is the host of a staged event, party performance, or gathering. An MC presents performers, speaks to the audience and ensures the event keeps flowing.

A DJ (Disc Jockey) is the person who selects, plays, and announces records at a discotheque.

DJ Kool Herc has been called the godfather of Hip-hop. He moved to New York City from his country Jamaica and brought with him the African tradition of toasting (spoken stories about heroes). At parties in the 70’s, Herc used to speak in rhyme over the “break” in the song – the part where only the instruments would play. It was during these breaks that the boys would dance and compete with each other and thus started what we now know as break dancing.

1979 "Rapper's Delight", by Sugarhill Gang was the first big rap single that took America by storm.

1982 Afrika Bambaataa, the first Black Muslim making rap, released 'Planet Rock', it was a huge success.

1986 Run-DMC became the first rap band to feature regularly on MTV (Music Television)

Ice-T released 6 in the Mornin', which is often regarded as the first gangsta rap song.

1988 MTV starts a new show, Yo! MTV Raps!

1992 Dre established Death Row Records after the split up of famous Gangsta group N.W.A. in 1991.

96- 97 2Pac and Notorious BIG were killed within six months of each other.

2003 - Eminem wins an Oscar in 2003 for his song, 'Lose yourself' from the movie '8 Mile'

DJ Kool Herc