Notorious B.I.G. mural, Naoufal “Rocko” Alaoui & Scott "Zimer" Zimmerman. Photo: Nicholas Knight

Hip-Hop in NYC

New York City is the birthplace of hip-hop. Fifty years on, the artistic movement that came from the Bronx now straddles the globe.

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There are all sorts of ways to explore hip-hop culture in NYC. Read about historical and contemporary figures, art, businesses and more.

Article

Hip-Hop Parks

Public parks have been part of hip-hop since its beginnings in the Bronx.

Apollo Theater exterior
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10 Apollo Theater Hip-Hop Moments

Harlem’s famous stage has been the site of landmark performances by Salt-N-Pepa, Lil Wayne and other hip-hop stars.

Manny Vega’s New York  Tile Collage
Dec 8, 2023 - Ongoing
Museums & Galleries
East Harlem

Byzantine Bembé: New York By Manny Vega

This exhibit features works showcasing the Bronx-born artist’s signature style.

HIP-HOP IN EACH BOROUGH

Hip-hop started in the Bronx but quickly became a part of overall NYC culture. Here are some historic and inspirational guides around hip-hop in each borough.

Salt-N-Pepa performing at a NYC park in Ozone Park, Queens.
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A Guide to Hip-Hop Culture in Queens, Past and Present

With its roster of legends, Queens continues to leave an indelible mark on hip-hop culture. Learn about the artists and locations that have made the borough essential.

Portrait of Biggie Smalls
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Hip-Hop Culture in Brooklyn

Trailblazing artists like the Notorious B.I.G. and Jay-Z came from the borough. Discover Brooklyn's enduring legacy, where rap legends and trendsetting fashion converge.

 Wu-Tang Clan portrait photo
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A Guide to Hip-Hop Culture in Staten Island, Past and Present

Explore the defiant spirit of Staten Island's hip-hop scene, from its rough beginnings to the rise of the Wu-Tang Clan.

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    Hip-Hop Started In the South Bronx

    The South Bronx is famous for being the birthplace of hip-hop and graffiti, but there's also an abundance of heartfelt new offerings in the area spearheaded by locals. South Bronx native, celebrated DJ and owner of Sankofa Haus, Michael “DJ Spynfo” Eagen, shows us around the neighborhood of Mott Haven. As Eagen invites us along to explore, he connects with friends to reflect on the neighborhood’s progression from the 1970s to now. Watch to learn more.

    NYC PUT HIP-HOP ON THE MAP

    Explore sites across the five boroughs that are significant to the culture.

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