Art Quote by KRS-One
“To me, that's the biggest problem with hip-hop today is the fact that everyone believes that all of hip-hop is rap music, and that, when you say "hip-hop," it's synonymous with rap. That when you say "hip-hop," you should be thinking about breakdancing, graffiti art, or MCing - which is the proper name for rap - DJing, beat-boxing, language, fashion, knowledge, trade. You should be thinking about a culture when you say, "hip-hop.".”
About This Quote
Source Interview: KRS-One on Hip Hop Culture, 2015
Hip hop is a multifaceted culture encompassing dance, visual art, DJing, MCing, fashion, and knowledge, not just rap music.
In simple terms: Hip hop includes many arts, not only rap.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and celebrate all elements of hip hop culture.
Themes
culture
art
music
identity
history
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
cultural
educational
When to use this quote
- Music education
- community events
- artist collaborations
- media coverage
Key Concepts
Hip hop culture
multidisciplinarity
genre definition
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we broaden public perception of hip hop?
- What steps can artists take to highlight non‑rap aspects?
A Different Perspective
Hip hop's commercial focus on rap can marginalize other elements.
