LOS ANGELES, CA- Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of hip-hop as the GRAMMY Museum® proudly announces the launch of its groundbreaking new exhibit, “Hip-Hop America: The Mixtape Exhibit.” This 5,000-square-foot extravaganza, opening its doors on October 7, 2023, marks a monumental celebration of the 50th anniversary of hip-hop and promises an unforgettable experience for music enthusiasts and cultural aficionados alike.
“Hip-Hop America: The Mixtape Exhibit” is not your typical museum display; it’s a journey that takes you through the heart and soul of hip-hop. This immersive exhibit explores the genre’s profound impact on the global cultural landscape. Curated by a team of experts including Felicia Angeja Viator, Adam Bradley, Jason King, and Dan Charnas, and in collaboration with the GRAMMY Museum, it brings to life the rich tapestry of hip-hop’s history and influence.
The exhibit is divided into several key themes:
- Origins: Step back in time to the Bronx and New York City, where hip-hop was born. DJs ruled the scene, graffiti adorned the streets, and breakdancing was all the rage.
- Innovation: Discover how hip-hop artists have revolutionized music through creative use of technology, from transforming turntables into instruments to pioneering sampling techniques.
- Sounds of Hip-Hop: Explore the diverse sounds of hip-hop in four themed studios, showcasing the evolution of production, the connection between hip-hop and car culture, the art of hip-hop lyrics, and the influence of R&B.
- Fashion: Dive into the world of hip-hop fashion, featuring iconic clothing, jewelry, and style that defined eras.
- Regionalism: Travel across the United States to uncover 15 distinctive hip-hop scenes, highlighting the importance of local and regional contributions.
- Entrepreneurialism: Learn how hip-hop evolved from a Bronx block party to a multi-billion-dollar global industry.
- Media: Delve into the role of media in shaping hip-hop’s development, from pioneering radio stations to iconic shows like “Yo! MTV Raps.”
- Community: Explore how hip-hop has brought people together over the past half-century with an interactive Hip-Hop America playlist featuring 200 songs tracing the genre’s evolution.
Not to mention that the exhibit boasts an extraordinary collection of artifacts that tell the story of hip-hop’s evolution. Highlights include:
– The Notorious B.I.G.’s iconic red leather pea jacket from the “Players Anthem” music video. – Kurtis Blow’s original handwritten lyrics for his 1980 hit single, “The Breaks.” – Darryl “DMC” McDaniels of Run-D.M.C.’s black suede fedora hat and Adidas Superstars. – Tupac Shakur’s handwritten essay “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death,” circa 1992. – Outfits designed by Harlem fashion icon Dapper Dan, including a black leather jacket worn by Melle Mel and a black-and-yellow leather bucket hat and jacket worn by New York hip-hop artist Busy Bee. – Egyptian Lover’s gold Roland 808, a legendary beat-making tool. – LL Cool J’s signature red Kangol bucket hat.
Visitors of all ages can unleash their creativity at the exhibit’s Sonic Playground, featuring five interactive stations for DJing, rapping, and sampling. This unique experience allows you to immerse yourself in the artistry of hip-hop.
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The GRAMMY Museum is also offering a series of events and programming to complement the exhibit. From career discussions with industry veterans to film screenings and interactive family programs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Upcoming events include:
Oct. 26: “Backstage Pass: Road to the Latin GRAMMYs®” featuring Mellow Man Ace, a pioneer of Latin rap.
Dec. 2: An interactive family program with hip-hop musician and author Ofosu Jones-Quartey.
In addition, the museum will offer Hip-Hop Education Workshops throughout the 2023-2024 school year, providing students with a deeper understanding of hip-hop’s history and impact.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this unforgettable celebration of hip-hop culture. “Hip-Hop America: The Mixtape Exhibit” opens on October 7, 2023, and will run through September 4, 2024. Tickets and more information are available at [www.grammymuseum.org](www.grammymuseum.org).
Join us in commemorating 50 years of hip-hop, celebrating its transformative power, and exploring the cultural phenomenon that continues to shape the world. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
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