“Hip-Hop America: The Mixtape Exhibit” curated by the GRAMMY Museum® delves deep into the multifaceted world of hip-hop through expansive exhibits on hip-hop music, dance, graffiti, fashion, business, activism and history, providing visitors with an immersive experience that explores the profound impact and influence of hip-hop culture.
“Hip-Hop America: The Mixtape Exhibit” is an educational journey through several key themes:
Origins: Discover the roots of hip-hop in the Bronx and New York City, where DJs were the original stars, and graffiti and breakdancing were integral to the culture.
Innovation: Explore how hip-hop artists have innovatively used technology, from transforming turntables into musical instruments to pioneering sampling techniques.
Sounds of Hip-Hop: Experience the diverse sounds of hip-hop in four themed studios, showcasing the evolution of production, the intersection of hip-hop and car culture, the craft 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.
Regionalism: Discover 14 hip-hop scenes across the United States, showcasing the importance of local and regional contributions.
Entrepreneurialism: Learn about the transformation of hip-hop from a back-to-school party in the Bronx to a multi-billion-dollar global industry.
Media: Discover the role of media in shaping hip-hop’s development, from radio stations to pioneering shows like “Yo! MTV Raps.”
Community: Explore how hip-hop has brought people together over the last 50 –plus years, with an interactive Hip-Hop America playlist featuring 200 songs that trace the genre’s evolution.
Exhibit highlights include:
- The Notorious B.I.G.’s iconic 5001 Flavors custom red leather peacoat he wore in Junior M.A.F.I.A.’s music video “Players Anthem”
- Kurtis Blow’s original handwritten lyrics for his 1980 hit single, “The Breaks,” the first gold-certified rap song
- Black suede fedora hat and Adidas Superstars belonging to Darryl “DMC” McDaniels of Run-D.M.C.
- Tupac Shakur’s handwritten essay “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death,” circa 1992
- Two outfits designed by Dapper Dan, Harlem fashion icon: 1) a half-length black leather jacket worn by Melle Mel (Melvin Glover, b. 1961) in performance at the 1985 GRAMMY Awards®; and a black-and-yellow leather bucket hat and jacket worn by New York hip-hop artist Busy Bee (David James Parker)
- Egyptian Lover’s gold Roland 808, the beat-making tool
- LL Cool J’s red Kangol bucket hat
Exhibit Programming
