The magazine included interviews with notable figures in American hip-hop, stories showcasing Black intellectuals, such as Dr.

In particular, Quincy Jones's magazine, VIBE, was a voice of authority when it came to all things hip-hop. We can still see this with modern day subgenres of rap, specifically with drill music which text paints scenes of violence, drug abuse, and sex.ĭuring this golden age, there were many serial publications that contributed to the culture as well as kept the average curious consumer in the loop of what was happening. By using the sonic space to express social issues of the Black American population, many hip-hop musicians were able to get their voices out in creative and ultimately effective ways. Public Enemy’s track “Fight the Power” lent insight into the world of individuals living in poverty. On the other hand, Afrocentrism was identifiable through the lyrics of many tracks that came out of the time. Staten Island-based group, the Wu-Tang Clan sampled material and got inspiration for names of albums, stage names, and even their own name from kung fu movies. Sampling has always been a defining trait of hip-hop, but particularly within the golden age, sampling began to take a turn-by using material found outside of originally musical ideas, sampling added an extra layer of timbre and context to a particular piece or even an album. The progressiveness on the technological front and social sphere allowed musicians to sample with ease, while Afrocentrism and Black feminism became a cultural standard.

Noted for its use of technology and conscientious lyrics, the golden age pushed musical and cultural boundaries. The Golden Age of hip-hop spanned between the mid-1980s to mid-90s. Particularly, I wanted to focus on key events within the community from hip-hop’s golden age. As a New Yorker and a listener of hip-hop I put together a case exhibit that features Quincy Jones’s VIBE magazine. Here at the Library for Performing Arts many of us use our material to research classical music, but we also have a mighty collection of material that focuses on popular music. Known for its change in fashion, music, and television, many believe the 90s, for good reason, was “peak” American culture. The 1990s continue to be on the minds of those who grew up during the era.

New york 90s hip hop fashion