American Rap Scenes

"Rap in America examines the factors of geography, migration, movements, music, and technology on the origins, persistence, and legacy of rap music in 25 local music scenes. By studying how each of these micro units developed, we can better understand how each scene interacts, collaborates, and engages with the others. Across seven themed chapters, this book explores the evidence of these factors on 25 scenes through both systematic evaluation of themes and data analysis. By providing area-centered analysis of a culture many see as monolithic, Lavar Pope highlights the unique histories of rap and hip-hop music in mid-size and major cities across the country"--