Hip-hop is a culture comprising of music and art. It was developed by African-Americans, Caribbean Americans, and Latino Americans in New York City and the Bronx in the ’70s. Besides entertainment, hip-hop reflects the reality of life by expressing real-life happenings through music and art. So far, many Blacks, Caribbean, and Latino youths have come up as hip-hop artists, some of whom have left a mark on society. Here’s a look at three of the most successful ‘90s hip hop artists.
Big L
Born in 1974, Big L, officially known as Lamont Coleman, became a hip-hop enthusiast when he was only 12. Growing up in the “Danger Zone” of Harlem’s uptown, Coleman constantly faced temptations of living in the streets, including, among others, peddling and using drugs, and robbing people. As a way out of the streets, he created a hip-hop group known as Three the Hard Way, which he later broke. By the time of his death, Colemon had released many rap songs as well as albums, which continue making an impact.
Jay-Z
Raised in a drug-infested neighborhood by a single mother, Jay-z is another popular hip-hop artist whose rap music has spread through different continents. Although he had a nickname in his childhood, Jazzy, his official name is Shawn Carter. Since growing up in an area full of drugs and gun violence was not easy, Shawn opted for rap music to escape these. Through the help of Jay-O, an older hip-hop artist, Jay-Z got into the public eye and decided to use Jay-Z as his stage name. Shawn Carter is still alive and continues thriving in his music career.
Lil Wayne
Also known as Dwayne Carter, Lil Wayne was born in 1982 in a criminal-infested community. His family lived in abject poverty after their father abandoned them. Regardless of his living conditions, Dwayne had a freestyling talent, which prompted him to start rapping at block parties at only 8 years of age. At 11 years, he landed his first recording deal with Cash Money and was the youngest rapper in the crew. So far, Lil Wayne has achieved tremendous success in his career and is also helping underprivileged children in society through his philanthropic initiatives.
Conclusion
These are the top 3 ‘90s hip hop artists in the U.S. It is worth noting that most of these artists ventured into hip-hop music to escape poverty, gun violence, and drugs, something which has helped them changed their livelihoods and those of their families.
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