Rap music values masculinity and dominance. The masculinity expressed in and valued by rap music come from several sources. Antonia Randolph states that masculinity is, “shaped not only by dominant culture, but by the repression that characterizes society’s treatment of non-normative sexuality and gender.” The tendency of American culture to value heterosexuality and reject sensitive male behavior is highlighted within this type of music. Rap’s lyrics strongly discourage homosexual behavior; but by repressing and rejecting this behavior, this type of music often instigates conversation about alternative life styles. This ties in with the ideas of Foucault (1978) . Such strict boundary policing by this type of music has allowed artists to express non-normative expressions of masculinity as long as they continue to state the obvious values of heteronormativity and powerful male roles. In this way, the genre doesn’t totally alienate people with alternative views of masculinity. These ideas are expressed by Randolph in her article, “Don’t hate me because I’m beautiful: Black masculinity and alternative embodiment in rap music.”
It seems that black youths tend to assimilate to the rap culture’s definition of Black masculinity if they begin to associate themselves with the artists and their struggles. Overall, the rap culture seems to be fairly pluralistic in nature. It tends to be Afro-centric and express pride in being African American while rejecting those African Americans that do not identify with the rap culture. This alienates potential fans of this music who are not African American. However, the spectacle of the genre, trendiness of Black culture, and the power and rebellion expressed in the lyrics of many songs gives white youth cause to continue to listen to this music. Often, this genre dispels women, because there is a strong male dominance within this music and often women are seen as objects. In music videos for this genre women are usually props and in the lyrics of these songs women are over sexualized and easily won over by money and gifts.
Overall, a rich niche group exists that relates to the content of this music, which tends to value African Americans as a group. On the other hand, the genre has experienced great popularity and pull with many young people who may not relate as easily because the culture valued by rap artists and their lyrics has been deemed cool and therefore being a rap fan is cool. Hip Hop still has a great impact on society even though it’s lyrics often contain content that applies more to those who live an urban lifestyle. It is so commonly played on pop radio stations that its influence is widespread and its appeal goes across many races and socioeconomic groups. Because the artists rap about going from having nothing to having money and power these desires in listeners draw them into this type of music.
Tags: Foucalt, masculine dominance, Tupac