Chicago’s Gangsta-Rap Microscene
Chicago’s Gangsta-Rap Microscene
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This introductory chapter considers how social class shapes meaning, interpretation, and opportunity for young men involved in rap and street gangs. It gives account of Joseph Coleman (Lil JoJo), an aspiring gangsta rapper who was gunned down in a neighborhood in Chicago. According to the Chicago police, Lil JoJo’s murder was connected to an online war of words and music to fellow teen rapper Keith Cozart (Chief Keef). This chapter also focuses on the cultural aspects of rap music and describes the musical output of Chicago’s rapping gang members that are mostly filled with messages about guns, gangs, drugs, money, women, hard-knocks, street life, and criminal activity.
Keywords: rap music, street gangs, Joseph Coleman, Lil JoJo, gangsta rapper, Chicago, Keith Cozart, Chief Keef
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