Dissecting the Elements of Hip-Hop

Hip-hop is now the number genre of music in the United States according to Nielsen. It is amazing to see how hip-hop has evolved since its beginning. It all started with the four original elements known as the emcee, the deejay, the break-dancers, and the graffiti artists. Now with the digital internet age, it’s as simple as a viral video. The evolution has been a tremendous change in the hip-hop culture. By interviewing several experts who have been around since the beginning of hip-hop, we can look at the differences and compare the differences of hip-hop now and then.

One of the expert deejays I plan to interview is Eric Narciandi known as DJ EFN. Not only has he been deejaying for over 20 years, he is also Co-Creator, executive producer and co-host at Drink Champs podcast. This podcast interviews many of the legendary artists of hip hop and he co-hosts alongside rapper Noreaga. DJ EFN will have much experience and first-hand stories that will be relevant to the hip-hop element of the DJ. He is a well-known and respected deejay in the Miami area. He was one of the first deejays to start making mixtapes in the Miami area.

For the hip hop element of graffiti, I plan to interview expert Lee Quinones. His paintings are in many worldwide places including the Whitney Museum of Art. He is known for his street art and started graffiti back in the 1970’s. He is well known as one of the top graffiti artists on the hip-hop culture. He was so influential in the hip-hop culture that he was recognized at the VH1 Hip Hop Honors awards show. His work has appeared in hip-hop movies and magazines. His expertise will be a great value on the hip hop element of graffiti. Due to his extensive background, he has been invited to speak at several universities regarding his art.

When it comes to breakdancing, known as b-boying, there is a gentleman by the name of Ricardo Fernandez Jr. known as Speedy Legs who now resides in South Florida who I plan to interview. Speedy Legs started the first annual breakdancing battle in the United States. He has over 30 years of experience including motion pictures. My interview with Speedy Legs will give you a closer look at the roots of breakdancing.

As we dissect the elements of hip-hop and interview several experts, we will have a closer look and understanding of the hip-hop culture.