positive hip hop

Positive Vibes Only: A Brief History of Positive Hip Hop

Hip-hop, often associated with gritty realities and urban struggles, boasts a vibrant undercurrent of positivity. This branch, often referred to as “positive hip hop,” uses the art form to uplift, inspire, and spread messages of hope and self-improvement.

Early Seeds:

While the roots of positive hip hop can be traced back to the early days of the genre, it truly began to blossom in the late 80s and early 90s. Artists like Public Enemy, with their socially conscious lyrics, paved the way, but it was A Tribe Called Quest who truly embraced a more optimistic and introspective style. Their jazz-infused beats and lyrical focus on self-reflection and community resonated with a generation.

The Rise of Conscious Rap:

The 90s saw a wave of artists dedicated to positive messages. Nas, known for his storytelling abilities, often explored themes of perseverance and self-discovery. The Roots, a band renowned for their live performances and intricate instrumentals, used their platform to promote positive values. Common, with his eloquent wordplay, tackled social issues with a powerful message of unity and hope.

The Millennial Movement:

The new millennium saw a resurgence of positive hip hop. Lupe Fiasco emerged with his thought-provoking lyrics, challenging societal norms and promoting intellectual exploration. Kendrick Lamar, the modern-day king of conscious rap, uses his platform to address complex social issues with unflinching honesty and poetic brilliance.

Funny Facts & Quirks:

• Lupe Fiasco’s “Daydreamin” features a hilarious story about the rapper accidentally losing his shoe while performing on a hot air balloon. He later admitted it was all part of a “planned stunt.”
• The Roots’ drummer Questlove, a self-proclaimed foodie, once published a cookbook titled “The Vegan Cookbook,” only to be photographed later devouring a juicy burger.
• Common’s “Be” was originally titled “Be Like Mike” and was inspired by Michael Jordan’s iconic phrase. He decided to change it, fearing it would be seen as a copycat move.

A Lasting Legacy:

Positive hip hop continues to thrive, reminding us that even amidst the complexities of life, there’s always room for positivity, self-belief, and messages of hope. The genre’s influence can be seen in the work of contemporary artists like J. Cole, Anderson .Paak, and Logic, all of whom strive to inspire and uplift with their music.

So, next time you’re listening to hip hop, keep an ear out for those positive vibes. You might be surprised by the messages of hope and inspiration hidden within the beats.