HIP-HOP

By: Hanaa - Y9A

 INTRODUCTION
Hip hop, born on the streets of the Bronx, New York, in the 1970s, is much
more than just music, it's a cultural movement mirroring the struggles and
dreams of many communities. Emerging from African African-American
roots, hip-hop has grown into a global genre, blending various cultures
and histories. Its impact reaches beyond music, influencing art, fashion,
language, and activism. Through rap, breakdancing, graffiti, and DJing, hip-
hop has become a powerful voice for the underprivileged, offering a place
for emotional expression.
ANALYSIS:
"I see no changes, all I see is racist faces": This opening line immediately sets the tone for the song,
highlighting the lack of progress in addressing racism and racial prejudice. Tupac observes that
despite the passage of time, racial discrimination persists.

"Misplaced hate makes disgrace to races": This line points out the destructive nature of hatred and

LINK:
prejudice, emphasizing that such emotions only serve to further divide and demean different races.
https://youtu.be/eXvBjCO19QY?
si=96DHqzl-qI02pZ9G "We under, I wonder what it takes to make this one better place, let's erase the wasted": Tupac
expresses a sense of frustration and bewilderment at the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized

CHOSEN LYRICS:
communities. He calls for unity and emphasizes the need to eliminate wasted potential and
opportunities for everyone.
"I see no changes, all I see is racist faces
"Take the evil out the people, they'll be acting right": This line suggests that addressing the root
Misplaced hate makes disgrace to races causes of societal problems, such as hatred and prejudice, can lead to positive behavioral changes
We under, I wonder what it takes to make in individuals.
this
"Both Black and White are smoking crack tonight": Here, Tupac addresses the issue of drug addiction
One better place, let's erase the wasted affecting people from all racial backgrounds, highlighting the common struggles faced by individuals
Take the evil out the people, they'll be irrespective of their race.
acting right
"And the only time we chill is when we kill each other": This powerful line reflects the cycle of
'Cause both Black and White are smoking violence and aggression within communities, where peace seems elusive, and conflicts often escalate
crack tonight into tragic outcomes.
And the only time we chill is when we kill
"It takes skill to be real, time to heal each other": Tupac emphasizes the importance of authenticity
each other and genuine understanding in healing the divisions between people. He advocates for empathy and
It takes skill to be real, time to heal each mutual respect.
other
"And although it seems heaven-sent, we ain't ready to see a black president": This line addresses the
And although it seems heaven-sent potential for significant societal change, such as having a black president, but suggests that society
We ain't ready to see a black president" is not yet prepared for such progress due to underlying racial prejudices.
ANALYSIS:
"Changes" by 2Pac delves into the challenges faced by African Americans,
such as racism and poverty, while emphasizing the need for hope and unity
to bring about positive change. The song employs a back-and-forth style to
convey these ideas, prompting listeners to contemplate significant issues
and take action. Its straightforward piano melody, repetitive chord pattern,
and strategic phrase repetition amplify the song's emotional depth and
allow listeners to focus on the impactful lyrics. While the song does not
heavily rely on musical improvisation, live performances might incorporate
creative variations in delivery. Syncopation adds a catchy rhythm,
enhancing the song's engagement and memorability. Although religion isn't
the central theme, the lyrics subtly question faith amid social injustices,
hinting at seeking divine intervention while emphasizing collective
responsibility. "Changes" also carries hidden messages, challenging societal
norms, urging active engagement, and subtly instilling hope despite the grim
subject matter. The song creatively repurposes the music from Bruce
Hornsby and the Range's "The Way It Is," transforming it into a hip-hop
track with a poignant message about racism and poverty.
MY LYRICS: (Verse 1)
In a world divided by hate, we rise above,
Verse 3)
No more violence, no more pain,

BY: Hanaa Koronfol

Spreading love and unity, that's the mission we love. In this fight for equality, we've got everything to gain.
Different colors, different faces, but we're all the same, Respecting every soul, embracing diversity,
No room for discrimination, we won't play that game. In this world of ours, we all deserve liberty.

MY VIDEO: (Chorus)
Equality and peace, that's the battle we fight,
(Chorus)
Equality and peace, that's the battle we fight,
Breaking chains of injustice, in the day and the night. Breaking chains of injustice, in the day and the night.
Hand in hand, we stand tall, breaking down every wall, Hand in hand, we stand tall, breaking down every wall,
For a future where everyone can answer the call. For a future where everyone can answer the call.

(Verse 2) (Outro)
It's not about the skin, the religion, or the gender, So let's come together, and make a stand,
It's the love in our hearts, that's what makes us tender. Hand in hand, across the land.
United we stand, against the storms we weather, Equality and peace, let it be our song,
In this world full of chaos, we'll rise together. In a harmonious world, where we all belong.

(Chorus)
Equality and peace, that's the battle we fight,
Breaking chains of injustice, in the day and the night.
Hand in hand, we stand tall, breaking down every wall,
For a future where everyone can answer the call.
THOUGHTS ON QUESTION 4:
“What responsibility do musicians and artists have in
addressing social and political issues through their music?”

Musicians and artists are like storytellers. They carry the

responsibility to tackle social and political issues through
their art. While they do reflect society, they also have the
power to shape it. Their role is to challenge norms,
stimulate conversations, and ignite change. By addressing
relevant issues, they serve as people of awareness,
promoting understanding and unity. In doing so, they help
societies progress and move towards equality and justice.
THANK YOU!