Many people criticize the rap industry, and it's mainly because of the origin goal of rap/hip-hop and how things have changed since the day of Afrika Bambaataa or Grandmaster Flash. Originally, hip-hop/ rap was a way of rebelling or disrupting the status quo. It was a way of engaging in dialog within the Black community, with topics ranging from politics and social change within the Black community to Black love and family. Originally, the rap/hip-hop industry was more genuine than it is now. Modern rap/hip-hop is more commercial and it seems as though mainstream rap is more about making money than anything else. This video is a parody featuring four of the most popular rappers today. Soulja Boy, Waka Flocka Flame, Gucci Mane, and OJ the Juiceman are either loved or hated by consumers for various reasons. They provide catchy songs that are often played at clubs and parties, however, they can have negative impacts on the youth. The reason their music can have a negative impact is because the media as just as great of an influence on people as their families, school, and religion. If a person hasn't developed media literacy skills, the messages being sent through their music can have a negative impact, regardless of whether or not that was the intent. This music has more of an impact on the Black community simply because of the racial factor. Black youth admire and look up to Black celebrities because one day they too would like to achieve some success doing something that they love. However, when your idols value money more than anything, you too are likely to follow this path. There needs to be more positivity in the Black community, and I think that it starts with music because in our media saturated society, it would be one of the quickest and most efficient way. ~JF
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