The Rap Year Book

Synopsis

The Rap Year Book takes readers on a journey that begins in 1979, widely regarded as the moment rap as a genre became recognised as part of music's landscape and comes right up to the present. Shea Serrano deftly pays homage to the most important song of each year. Serrano also examines the most important moments that surround the history and culture of rap music-from artists' backgrounds, to issues of race and safety, to the rise of hip-hop and the struggles among its major players-both personal and professional. Covering East Coast and West Coast, famous rapper feuds, chart toppers and show stoppers, The Rap Year Book takes an in-depth look at the last thirty-five years of the most influential genre of music to come out of the last generation. Complete with quizzes, infographics, lyric maps, hilarious and informative footnotes, portraits of the artists, and the occasional rebuttal essay by other prominent music writers, The Rap Year Book is both a narrative and illustrated guide to some of the most iconic and influential songs ever created under the umbrella of rap music. Serrano cites a variety of sources to form his arguments including biographies, magazines and documentaries, as well as his own experiences growing up at a time when hip-hop was becoming a prevalent force in the music industry. With its all-encompassing look at the ups and downs of rap music, and the landmark songs that are its tent-poles, this book will be perfect for anyone who is a fan of the genre.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Birth of Hip-Hop

Summary:
Hip-hop emerged in the Bronx in the 1970s from a melting pot of African-American, Caribbean, and Latin American influences. DJs like Kool Herc experimented with playing breakbeats, creating the foundation for rap. Block parties became cultural events where MCs (masters of ceremonies) introduced lyrical battles and storytelling.

Example:
Kool Herc's "Back to the Old School" party on August 11, 1973, is widely regarded as the birthplace of hip-hop.

Chapter 2: The Golden Age of Hip-Hop

Summary:
The 1980s marked the golden age of hip-hop, with the rise of legendary artists like Run-DMC, LL Cool J, and Public Enemy. Rap lyrics became more politically conscious, addressing social issues and social commentary.

Example:
Run-DMC's "King of Rock" (1985) was the first rap album to achieve platinum status, showcasing the genre's mainstream breakthrough.

Chapter 3: The West Coast Invasion

Summary:
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, West Coast rap emerged as a dominant force, led by artists like Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and Tupac Shakur. They introduced a laid-back, funk-infused sound known as G-Funk.

Example:
Dr. Dre's "The Chronic" (1992) is a classic album that helped popularize G-Funk and establish the West Coast's dominance in hip-hop.

Chapter 4: The Rise of Gangsta Rap

Summary:
Gangsta rap emerged in the early 1990s, with artists like N.W.A. and Ice Cube rapping about urban violence, drug dealing, and other aspects of street life. It became controversial for its explicit content and portrayal of violence.

Example:
N.W.A.'s "Straight Outta Compton" (1988) is a seminal album that defined the gangsta rap genre and raised concerns about its impact on society.

Chapter 5: The East-West Rivalry

Summary:
The 1990s saw a rivalry between East Coast and West Coast rappers, fueled by competition and media hype. It culminated in the tragic deaths of Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G.

Example:
The East-West rivalry reached its peak in 1994 with the release of Nas's "Illmatic" and Dr. Dre's "The Chronic." Both albums were critical and commercial successes, further fueling the competition between the two coasts.

Chapter 6: The New Millennium

Summary:
Hip-hop continued to evolve in the 2000s, with the rise of new subgenres like crunk, trap, and mumble rap. It also became increasingly global, with artists from diverse backgrounds emerging worldwide.

Example:
Kanye West's "College Dropout" (2004) is an influential album that showcased the continued diversity and innovation of hip-hop in the new millennium.

Chapter 7: The Future of Hip-Hop

Summary:
The future of hip-hop remains uncertain, but it continues to adapt and evolve. New technologies, streaming platforms, and social media have changed the way music is consumed and distributed.

Example:
Lil Nas X's "Old Town Road" (2019) became a viral sensation and topped the Billboard Hot 100 for a record-breaking 19 weeks, showcasing the power of TikTok and social media in shaping the future of hip-hop.