Hip-Hop culture has undeniably left a significant mark on our generation. Young listeners use slang and fashion mentioned and described in Rap and Hip-Hop songs as inspiration for their own style. TikToks, Reels, and YouTube posts all feature Hip-Hop songs because of the trends they start. While it gets a bad rap for promoting violence, Hip-Hop music actually motivates listeners, allowing them to identify with the stories, language, and experiences the songs describe as real.

While some argue that today's music encourages negative behavior, it's important to recognize that only specific sub-genres of Hip Hop glorify gang affiliation, drugs, sexualizing women, and explicit language. From its start in the 1970, Hip-Hop has evolved into a widely diverse and influential movement.

Legendary artists like Tupac, Ice Cube, Eazy-E, Snoop Dogg, Queen Latifah, Missy Elliot, and the notorious B.I.G are essential listens. They represent the diverse subjects and styles of the culture. They provide youthful listeners with a sense of identity and belonging whether it’s describing the violence of police brutality, the compassionate love of a mother, or the pride of living “Just Another Day” in the hood. The stories these artists tell are relatable and often inspire listeners.

The most visible inspirations can be seen in Hip-Hop fashion. Artists set trends through performances and musician videos that encourage others to copy and mimic. From the oversized t-shirts and jerseys to chunky gold jewelry and big, “iced” pendants, Hip-Hop artists determine what is cool. Fans simply idolize them; thinking everything they wear, everything they do, everything they say, is cool. Artists such as Kendrick Lamar, Nicki Minaj, Kanye, Drake, Travis Scott, Lil Uzi Vert, Tyler, the Creator, A$AP Rocky, and Ice Spice hold immense power with their craft and have redefined the genre for a new era.

Beyond the baggy pants and Timberlands, it's crucial to decipher the deeper meaning behind the lyrics. Travis Scott’s, 90210, for instance, describes the impact his “Granny” has had on his life. Granny warns that he will get wrapped up in the success of his career, but Travis reminds her, “I’m falling in and out of clouds, don't worry, I'ma get it, granny,” 90210 is a reminder to all listeners about the importance of familiar relationships and connections. It’s more than a cool beat, it’s a life lesson about humanity.

Hip-Hop is about identity. Everybody is writing their own personal experiences, sharing their realities and providing a voice. If you want to hear from these voices, check out Rolling Stone’s The 50 Greatest Hip-Hop Songs of All Time.