One of the galleries, The Message, explores the origins of both hip-hop and rap in the urban decay of New York’s South Bronx Burrough. Museum visitors learn about the era’s minority youth culture, which incorporated DJ-driven music, breakdancing, graffiti art and streetwear fashion into the amalgam of hip-hop. Also emphasized is the way in which technology helps drive hip-hop through the sampling, scratching and beatbox work of its turntablist pioneers.
“We are excited to name Jody Watley as our membership ambassador. Black music finally has a home and with your support, we can make sure it will be here to inspire visitors for years to come,” said Kara Duke, development and membership manager at NMAAM.
For more information about the National Museum of African American Music or to become a member, log on to www.nnaam.org.
