MC Hammer Bypasses Hip Hop’s 50th Anniversary: Why?

Renowned rap artist MC Hammer, at 60, has declared his disinterest in participating in the celebrations marking Hip Hop’s 50th anniversary. The artist has criticized the current hip hop culture’s immaturity, a stark contrast to his mature self-identification. Hammer made these remarks at an event in Oakland, where a street was named after the late rap icon, Tupac Shakur. He used this solemn occasion to reflect on his deep friendship with Shakur and their shared journey within the music industry.

Hammer’s Criticism of Veteran Rappers

Hammer was particularly critical of veteran rappers who glorify violence in their lyrics, despite lacking the criminal background to back up their narratives. His bold comments hint at a growing disconnect between the artist and the contemporary hip hop scene, which he perceives as a departure from the genre’s roots.

Declining the Grammy’s Invitation

Despite receiving an invitation from Questlove, who is producing the Grammy’s Hip Hop 50th anniversary celebration, Hammer has decided to decline. His refusal is rooted not in disdain for the genre but in his desire to dissociate from what he sees as an immature representation of hip hop culture. Interestingly, Hammer is not alone in his stance. André 3000, another influential figure in the hip hop scene, has also expressed skepticism about the value of the anniversary celebrations.

MC Hammer’s Upcoming Projects

MC Hammer has chosen to tell his story on his terms. The artist is currently working on a book and a movie project that will offer an intimate look at his life and career. This decision allows Hammer to maintain control over his narrative, rather than surrendering it to the broader narrative of the Hip Hop 50th anniversary.

In the meantime, the U.S. Congress has acknowledged the significance of hip hop by passing resolutions in both the House and Senate. These resolutions officially designate August 11th as Hip Hop Celebration Day, the entire month of August as Hip Hop Recognition Month, and November as Hip Hop History Month. This recognition affirms hip hop’s importance not merely as a music genre, but as an integral part of American culture and history.

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