The Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture and the Lincoln Theatre presented
The Anthology of Rap panel discussion on Thursday November 16, 2010. A promotional DJ from Words, Beat, and Life spun old school rap records as some hundred or so hip hop enthusiasts, scholars, cultural critics, and educators filled the theatre space, anticipating the intellectual dialogue from panel moderators Adam Bradley, Associate Professor of English at University of Colorado, Andrew Dubois,Associate Professor of English at University of Toronto, R. Scott Heath of Georgetown University and their special guests; Grammy-award winning rapper Common, hip hop pioneer Kurtis Blow and his son, upcoming rapper Kurtis Blow Jr.
Throughout this free event was a focused discussion on rap music as a culture, its evolution, and its influences on society. The panel members emphasized the art form's importance in society, discussing the political and social responsibilities the genre carries. What initially began as a sit-down talk session with co-editor Adam Brandley and Coomon, soon became an impromptu performance of classic hit "I Used to Love H.E.R", from the conscious artist's second album
Resurrection . "Ive seen hip hop start to lose its purity", said Common when asked about the current state of hip hop. Rapper Kurtis Blow spoke largely on the power of rap and being an educated rapper, expressing his own gratitude in recieving a college degree. Subsequently, when Kurtis Blow Jr, son of rapper Kurtis Blow, was asked about the challenges of being an upcoming artist in this new age of rap, he answered "It's all about finding that balance".
Following a brief question-and-answer session with members of the audience, the panel concluded with a suprise, high-energy performance from Kurtis Blow and Kurtis Blow Jr. Attendants arose from their seats as both old and new fans a-like, reminisced and recited lyrics to old school classics like "The Message", Slick Rick's "Children Story", and Sugar Hill Gang's "Rapper's Delight".
The performance ended with with attendants scurrying to the lobby/foyer area of the theatre for a special book signing with the co-editors of the novel.
Posted By: Cory France
Monday, November 29th 2010 at 2:31AM
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