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In the early 70s, Hip Hop as we know it was born in the streets of Bronx, New York as an alternative to gang violence and tension that blanketed the urban terrain.
It was deejaying pioneers like Kool Herc, Afrika Bambaataa and the Zulu Nation, and Grandmaster Flash who brought people together in peace with large block parties and park jams. Mixing Go-Go, Soca, Salsa, Reggae, Rock, Jazz, Funk, African music, and other diverse sounds, Deejays were foundational to the development of Hip Hop culture. They began to extend the drum portions of many records using two turntables and a mixer. This innovation became known as the "Breaks" of the beat.
These Breaks were instrumental to the evolution of the B-boy or Break Boy. B-boys and B-girls congregated in circles (cyphers) while taking there fast-paced dancing styles to the ground with footwork, freezes, and other physically demanding moves.
The MCs (Masters of Ceremonies or Mic Controllers) were the ones who amped up the crowds for the Deejay. The Emcees were the voice of the party, using chants, call and responses and shout outs to energize the audience. As the Emcees began to incorporate rhythmic poetry, scatting, and harmony into the performance, they eventually became the center of attention.
During this time Graffiti writers went from vandalism to artistry, painting large, colorful and complex pieces and scenery. As the four main elements of Hip Hop (Deejaying, Emceeing, B-boying/B-Girling, and Graffiti) expanded to the clubs and galleries of Manhattan, the industry of Hip Hop music, entertainment, and art became more and more popular.
By the early-to-mid 80s, Bambaataa and many of his Zulu Nation members began to travel the world, spreading Hip Hop culture's influence, history, and teachings to young people internationally. Hip Hop blew up as it could be seen and heard just about anywhere. Today, Hip Hop is one of the greatest influences in youth and adults all around the world where local communities/scenes thrive.
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