What do you think the issues were that led to the development of Hip Hop in the 1970’s & 1980’s, and are they the same issues driving popular dances today? Or have they changed?
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The development of Hip Hop in the 1970s and 1980s can be attributed to several key issues and socio-cultural factors. These include:
1. Social Inequality and Marginalization: Hip Hop emerged in predominantly African American and Latinx communities in cities like New York, where there was high unemployment, poverty, and social discrimination. This marginalization and frustration with the system led to the expression of their experiences through music, dance, and art.
2. Limited Access to Resources: Inner-city communities faced limited access to resources such as proper education, job opportunities, and recreational facilities. This created a need for self-expression and creativity within the community, leading to the development of Hip Hop as a form of cultural expression.
3. Unpopular Music Scene: In the 1970s and 1980s, many commercial radio stations primarily played disco and rock music, neglecting genres like Rap and R&B. This exclusion contributed to the rise of Hip Hop as a grassroots movement, driven by local DJs, MCs, and dancers who sought alternative platforms to showcase their talents.
4. Cultural Identity: Hip Hop culture was also influenced by African and African American oral traditions, music, and dance forms such as the African “Griots” and practices like "toasting" and "breakdancing" that were rooted in the African diaspora. This cultural identity provided a sense of belonging and empowerment and played a significant role in Hip Hop's development.
The issues that drove the development of popular dances in the 1970s and 1980s may differ from those today, as societal contexts have changed significantly over time. However, some problems related to social inequality, marginalization, and limited access to resources still persist and continue to contribute to the development of contemporary popular dances.
Today, popular dances are often influenced by a broader range of factors, such as technology, globalization, and social media. The internet and platforms like TikTok have made dance more accessible and democratized, allowing people from various backgrounds to create and showcase their choreography. Issues like representation, cultural appropriation, and individualism are also being discussed and influencing the development of popular dances in modern times.
In summary, while some core issues that influenced the development of Hip Hop in the 1970s and 1980s may still persist today, the nature and range of factors driving the development of popular dances have expanded significantly with changing societal contexts and technological advancements.