ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Hip hop music

Hip hop music is a type of music that started in the United States in the 1970s. It usually features someone talking rhythmically over a beat. Sometimes the words are about things that the artist has experienced or things they think are important.

At its core, hip hop music includes four main elements: rapping (the rhythmical talking over a beat), DJing (manipulating sounds and music), graffiti (visual art), and breakdancing (dance style that often takes place on the floor).

The beats in hip hop music usually come from a drum machine, which is like a special computer that makes different sounds. The beat is what keeps the rhythm of the song going, and it usually repeats over and over again throughout the song.

Hip hop music has been very important in giving people a way to express themselves and talk about things that are important to them. It has also helped to bring attention to certain issues like racism, poverty, and violence. Many hip hop artists have used their music to raise awareness of these issues and to encourage people to take action to make things better.

Overall, hip hop music is a unique and expressive genre that has played a significant role in music and popular culture over the past few decades.