Tragedy & Triumph is a two-part hip-hop CD mixtape that discusses self-worth, social consciousness, and issues in urban communities. This set of disks celebrates hip-hop culture and the music that comes from it. When it comes to hip-hop music, no subject is off limits – even the ones that are deeply personal. Tragedy & Triumph reflects on transformation, and discusses the inner monologue of unpacking life’s battles and confinements that often lead to growth and strength.
MAKE YOURSELF HEARD
Hip-Hop itself is not a person, a place or physical entity; it is self-awareness and social consciousness. The hip-hop culture at its core is built on values of social justice, peace, respect, self-worth, and community. Urban minorities use hip-hop music and hip-hop culture to use their voice to take artistic control to speak on adversity and circumstances of political and economic oppression. Through hip-hop, it has the possibility to open discourse and dialogue related to issues of the presence of violence (gang violence, police brutality, etc,.), poverty, oppression, confinement, but also
resilience. Despite the negative associations that come with rap and hip-hop, many who listen to the music find it as a strong source of community and self-empowerment. Issues of mental health, ways to cope with emotions, challenges of understanding identity and personal growth, are often battling with a stigma. Often in urban neighborhoods, the stigma weighs heavy and creates immense pressure. And so, music and dance can establish a sense of storytelling, identity, and community, and allow adults and the youth to become the steward of their own story.