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Journal of Hip Hop Studies

Journal of Hip Hop Studies

Abstract

This essay methodically tracks references to safe-sex in rap music and analyzes their implications. Reviewing over 3,000 songs from 1985 to 1995, the authors found that the tone and messages of these references differed substantially. While many artists celebrated risky and indiscriminate sexual behavior– their work marred by a misogny and homophobia that often stigmatized persons living with sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)– many other artists portrayed safe-sex in a positive light, either as a responsible approach to sexual behavior, or as a pragmatic tool of urban survival. These songs normalized the use of condoms, and educated listeners by raising awareness about STDs and encouraging positive sexual-health practices. Some artists offered an expanded commentary, critical of the government’s inadequate response to the HIV/AIDS crisis in the African-American community. The essay contends that during the time period under examination, rap music was an invaluable source of information about safe-sex and sexual health practices fot a segment of the population that traditional educational forums had trouble reaching or establishing credibility among. That by 1992 mainstream media outlets were utilizing rap artists to reach and educate a younger, more extensive audience supports the conclusion that this type of messaging was understood as effective.

Volume

10

Issue

1

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