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.

FEATURED CONTENT

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
Article

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.
Article

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
Article

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
Article

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.

    Exterior of Bronx Native
    Shopping
    Mott Haven

    Bronx Native

    A Bronx shop launched to uplift, support and represent the spirit of those born in the borough.

    all-in-nyc_universal_hip_hop_museum
    Museums & Galleries
    South Bronx

    The Hip Hop Museum

    Dubbed “The Official Record of Hip Hop,” the museum boasts a collection that spans 30,000 items.

    Black Spectrum Theatre
    Performing Arts
    Jamaica

    Black Spectrum Theatre

    The beloved Queens theater supports the African-American community and local performers.

    Interior of The Boogie Down Grind
    Nightlife
    Hunts Point/Longwood

    Boogie Down Grind

    This Bronx coffee shop celebrates caffeinated beverages and hip-hop.

    Interior of Extra Butter
    Shopping
    Long Island City

    Extra Butter

    This streetwear and sneaker brand features special collaborations rooted in hip-hop culture.

    The Bronx Walk of Fame signs
    Attractions & Tours
    Melrose

    The Bronx Walk of Fame

    A 23-block corridor features street signs bearing names of famous Bronx residents.

    Music
    New York City

    Pendulum Ink Academy

    The first school for hip-hop lyricism founded by rapper Mickey Factz and emcee Chilla Jones.

    Nightlife
    Flatiron District

    The 40/40 Club

    An upscale Flatiron sports lounge co-owned by hip-hop legend Jay-Z.

    Exterior of Vinnie’s Styles
    Shopping
    Prospect Heights

    Vinnie’s Styles

    A beloved Brooklyn streetwear shop that’s been outfitting hip-hop artists and locals for over 20 years.

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