The Vocal Dimension of Hip-Hop Music

A critical examination of the vocal dimension of Hip-Hop music and its impact on the genre.

Introduction

When one thinks of hip hop music, the first thing that comes to mind is the iconic image of a rapper MCing over a hard-hitting beat. However, what is often overlooked is the important role that the human voice plays in this genre. In fact, the vocal dimension of hip hop is one of its defining characteristics.

Unlike other genres of music where the focus is primarily on the instruments, in hip hop the human voice is front and center. The often aggressive and rhythmic delivery of lyrics is what gives this genre its unique sound and feel. And while rappers are the most visible example of this, it should be noted that singing is also an integral part of hip hop. Indeed, many of today’s biggest hits feature a catchy hook sung by a talented vocalist.

Thus, when considering the vocal dimension of hip hop, it is important to keep in mind both rappers and singers. Both play a vital role in making this genre so distinctive and enjoyable.

The Elements of Hip-Hop Music

Hip-hop music is a form of popular music that developed from a combination of African American music genres including jazz, soul, R&B, and gospel. This music genre is characterized by a strong vocal delivery which often includes rhyming lyrics.

Rhyming

Rhyming is a fundamental element of hip-hop music. MCs often boast about their skills on the mic, and the ability to rhyme is highly prized. There are many different types of rhymes, but the most common are slant rhymes, End rhymes, and multisyllabic rhymes.

Slant rhyme, also known as imperfect rhyme or near rhyme, is when two words share a similar, but not identical sound. End rhyme is when two words share the same vowel sound and the same consonant sound in the last syllable. Multisyllabic rhyme is when two or more words share a complete rhyme.

Rhyming is not just about making words sound good together; it’s also about making meaning. MCs use rhyme to create wordplay, to tell stories, and to deliver punchlines. Rhyming is an essential tool for MCs, and it takes a lot of practice to master.

Sampling

One important element of Hip-Hop music is sampling. Sampling is the act of taking a section of music from one song and using it in another. Producers use sampling to create new pieces of music by combining parts of different songs. They may also use samples to pay tribute to their favorite artists or to create a new sound altogether.

There are two types of sampling: digital and analog. Digital sampling is more common today, as it is easier to do and produces a higher quality sound. Analog sampling was more common in the early days of Hip-Hop, when producers had to physically cut and splice pieces of tape together. Despite the advances in technology, some producers still prefer analog sampling for its warmer sound.

No matter what method is used, sampling is an important part of Hip-Hop music and has helped to create some of the genre’s most iconic tracks.

Turntablism

Turntablism is the art of manipulating sounds and creating new music, sound effects, mixes and other creative sounds and beats, typically by using two or more turntables and a cross fader-equipped DJ mixer. The mixer is plugged into a PA system so the turntablist can share his or her work with an audience.

Breakdancing

Breakdancing, also called breaking or b-boying/b-girling, is an athletic style of street dance. While the mainstream public was introduced to breakdancing through movies such as Beat Street (1984) and Flashdance (1983), the origins of breakdancing date back to the late 1960s and early 1970s. It is believed that breakdancing is a direct descendant of two other street dances that were popular at the time: Uprocking and King Tim III (Personality Jock). Uprocking is a competitive street dance where two dancers face off against each other, using quick footwork and freezes to assert dominance over their opponents. King Tim III (Personality Jock) was the first rap song recorded with a drum machine, and its popularity gave rise to a new style of dance known as “electric boogaloo.” This new style of dancing was characterized by its use of robotic movements and freeze frames.

Breakdancing began to gain popularity in New York City in the early 1970s. It was originally danced to funk and disco music, but soon evolved to incorporate elements of jazz, rock, and pop music as well. Breakdancers use a wide variety of moves which include toprock, downrock, power moves, freezes, and suicide drops.

Graffiti

Graffiti, an element of Hip-Hop culture, is the practice of painting or drawing images on walls or other surfaces in public places without the permission of the property owner. The Hip-Hop subculture that emerged in the 1970s brought with it not only music, but also fashion, break dancing and graffiti. In New York City, where Hip-Hop culture originated, graffiti emerged as a way for young people to express themselves and assert their presence in communities that they often felt marginalized from.

While some consider graffiti to be a form of art, others see it as a form of vandalism. Graffiti can be found in many public places, including subways, parks and buildings. It is often associated with gangs and can be used to mark territory or to send messages between members.

The Vocal Dimension of Hip-Hop Music

Hip-Hop music consists of three primary elements: MCing, DJing, and B-boying/B-girling. MCing, also known as rapping, is a vocal style in which the artist speaks rhythmically and rhyme. DJing is the art of manipulating sounds and creating beats using turntables and other musical equipment. B-boying/B-girling, also known as breakdancing, is a style of street dance that includes acrobatic and gymnastic moves.

The Role of the MC

The role of the MC in hip-hop music is to provide vocal delivery and tell a story that is often the focal point of the song. The MC is responsible for making the song catchy and memorable, as well as keeping the listener engaged with witty wordplay and clever punchlines. While the beats and instruments are important, it is the MC that brings the song to life and makes it unique.

Without an MC, hip-hop music would be simply a collection of beats and noises. The MC is what makes hip-hop music an art form, and their lyrical prowess is what sets them apart from other genres. If you enjoy listening to hip-hop music, be sure to pay attention to the MCs – they are often the most talented and underrated members of the group.

The Role of the DJ

The hip-hop DJ is a central figure in the music genre. DJs were originally responsible for providing the soundtrack for block parties and other social gatherings, and they continue to be an important part of the hip-hop music scene. DJs typically use turntables to play pre-recorded music, which they may manipulate with a variety of techniques to create new sounds. They may also use samplers to create new tracks by combining sounds from multiple sources. In addition to playing music, DJs often provide commentary and engage in other forms of audience interaction.

While the role of the DJ has changed over time, they remain an essential part of hip-hop culture.

The Role of the Producer

In many respects, the role of the producer in hip-hop music is similar to that of the producer in any other genre. The producer is responsible for assembling the team of musicians, overseeing rehearsals and recordings, and making sure that the final product meets the standards set by the record label.

However, there are some key ways in which the role of the producer in hip-hop music is different from that in other genres. One of these is the importance of the beat in hip-hop music. The beat is often what makes or breaks a hip-hop track, and it is the responsibility of the producer to make sure that the beat is as fresh and catchy as possible.

Another key difference is the importance of sampling in hip-hop music. Sampling is a technique whereby snippets of other songs are incorporated into a new track. This can be done with or without permission from the original artist, but either way it is vital that the sample is used in a way that enhances the new track rather than sounding like a cheap knock-off.

Finally, it should be noted that many hip-hop producers are also MCs (rappers) themselves. This means that they have a unique perspective on how to construct a track, which can often result in them coming up with ideas that other producers would never have thought of.

Conclusion

To sum it all up, the vocal dimension is what separates hip-hop music from other genres. The ability to use one’s voice as an instrument is what makes hip-hop music so unique and special. Without the vocal dimension, hip-hop music would simply be another genre of music.