Tru-School Hip Hop History
Tru-School Hip Hop had its origins in the South Bronx, circa 1969, when youth in the inner city sought to develop a more positive and non-violent form of self- expression. People came together to compete dance-wise, instead of fighting, drinking, doing drugs and participating in violent activities. Hip Hop is the root culture from which Rap emerged. Hip Hop began to hit mainstream society in the late 70’s and early 80’s and has since spread worldwide.
Initially, Hip Hop consisted of four main elements: Graffiti art; Break-dancing; DJ-ing ("cuttin' and scratching"); and Emcee-ing (rapping). To this day, Hip Hop is a continuously evolving lifestyle --- with its own language, style of dress, music and mindset.
Because Break Dancing and Graffiti aren't as prominent these days, except in the underground Hip Hop community, the words "Rap" and "Hip Hop" have been used interchangeably. However, it should be noted that all aspects of the original Hip Hop culture still exist, even though they may have evolved into newer expressions.
In the mainstream media, Hip Hop is generally stereotyped as being associated with negative images and violence. On the other hand, Tru-School Hip Hop is --- and always has been --- about providing a positive and creative outlet for our youth and young adults. This is the core Hip Hop philosophy that Harold McCord shares with his students.
"Hip-hop is supposed to uplift and create, to educate people on a larger level and to make a change" ~Doug E. Fresh~
