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 Abstract

Excerpted From: Bria Riley, America's Mass Shootings and Hip-Hop: The History, Myths, and Hip-hop's Invaluable Contribution to Mass Shooting Prevention, 42 North Carolina Central Law Review 121 (2021) (161 Footnotes) (Full Document)

“Violence isn't a Democrat or Republican problem. It's an American problem, requiring an American solution” stated DaShanne Stokes. Mass shootings are a prevalent American problem, which leaders on both sides of the aisle and Hip-Hop are addressing. Critics believe that Hip-Hop music is a contributor to America's mass shooting problem because Hip-Hop often depicts violent realities. Contrary to this belief, not all Hip-Hop figures promote violence and many have spoken against America's mass shooting problem while proffering myriad solutions.

This article sheds light on Hip-Hop's contribution to solving the American mass shooting problem by: 1) defining and reviewing the history of mass shootings; 2) debunking the adage “Hip-Hop made me do it;” 3) providing insight into the Hip-Hop perspective on American mass shootings; and 4) offering solutions, touted by Hip-Hop figures, to the problem of mass shootings.

[. . .]

Mass shootings are an American problem requiring an American solution. Hip-Hop, as an art form, is an integral part of American culture and mirrors what is happening in society As Davey D states, “when brothas start flexing the verbal skills, it always reflects what's going on politically, socially, and economically.” Hip-Hop has contributed invaluable insight into America's solution(s) for mass shooting prevention and should be included in the conversation of solving mass shootings in America.