Hip Hop, Rap, and Delinquency

Dancing to That Illicit Beat: The Link between Hip Hop and Delinquency/Crime

The debates surrounding hip hop's connection to delinquency and crime hinge on the suggestion that rap, specifically gangsta (altered spelling of the word gangster) rap, encourages pessimistic, cavalier, and antisocial behavior. Gangsta rap is a subgenre of hip hop music that became popular after the first release of N.W.A.'s Straight Outta Compton CD in 1988. This genre of music has been accused of promoting procriminal and [Page 347]misogynistic attitudes through images that often glorify and legitimize involvement in criminal activities.

The accusation concerning the glorification of delinquency and crime largely stems from the music lyrics that contain references to the artists' participation in criminal activity, namely, drug dealing, pimping, and gang activity—commonly referenced as hustling. A history of involvement in gang and/or criminal activity provides what is considered “street creditability,” which is a vital ingredient to being perceived as a serious contender in this genre of music. A quick review of the personas of the most famed rap artist demonstrates that they often make reference to their past experience in delinquency and crime. For example, artists such as Jay-Z and 50 Cent have highlighted their past involvement in drug dealing, while artists such as Snoop Dogg have made references to their past gang affiliation. These artists and others often present their past experience in criminal activity in a way that suggests that involvement in these activities is a viable means to obtaining money and fame. Those who criticize hip hop and rap claim that the preponderance of this theme in such music symbolizes not only acceptance of criminal behavior but high regard for it.

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