10 Things Only Old School Hip Hop Fans Understand

Old school hip hop holds a special place in the hearts of its fans, evoking memories of a bygone era when boomboxes blared beats on city streets and MCs battled in underground cyphers. For those who grew up with the genre, there are certain aspects that only they truly understand. In this blog post, we’ll explore 10 things that resonate deeply with old school hip hop fans.

Boom Bap Beats:

Old school hip hop is synonymous with the distinctive boom bap sound characterized by gritty drum loops and soulful samples. Fans of the genre understand the nostalgic appeal of these beats and their role in shaping the golden era of hip hop.

Vinyl Records and Crate Digging:

Before the digital age, hip hop DJs and producers scoured record stores in search of rare vinyl records to sample. Old school fans appreciate the thrill of crate digging and the tactile experience of flipping through dusty crates in search of hidden gems.

The Importance of Lyrics:

In old school hip hop, lyrics were king. Fans appreciate the clever wordplay, intricate rhyme schemes, and storytelling prowess of their favorite MCs. For them, hip hop is not just music — it’s poetry set to a beat.

Sampling Culture:

Sampling is a cornerstone of old school hip hop production, with producers flipping obscure records into new and innovative tracks. Fans understand the artistry behind sampling and appreciate the creativity it brings to the genre.

Freestyle Cyphers:

Before social media and streaming platforms, hip hop heads gathered in parks and street corners for freestyle cyphers. Old school fans reminisce about the raw energy and lyrical prowess displayed in these spontaneous battles of wit.

Hip Hop Fashion:

From Kangol hats to Adidas tracksuits, old school hip hop fashion is iconic in its own right. Fans understand the significance of fashion in hip hop culture and its influence on mainstream trends.

Underground Mixtapes:

Long before streaming services made music accessible at the click of a button, hip hop fans traded underground mixtapes filled with exclusive tracks and unreleased freestyles. Old school fans appreciate the thrill of discovering new music through these DIY recordings.

Graffiti Art:

Graffiti art is a visual expression of hip hop culture, with its roots tracing back to the streets of New York City in the 1970s. Old school fans understand the importance of graffiti as a form of self-expression and rebellion against societal norms.

DJ Scratching:

The art of DJ scratching is a hallmark of old school hip hop, with DJs like Grandmaster Flash and DJ Kool Herc pioneering the technique. Fans appreciate the skill and precision required to manipulate vinyl records on turntables.

The Golden Era:

For old school hip hop fans, the golden era of the late 1980s and early 1990s represents a pinnacle of creativity and innovation in the genre. They fondly remember classic albums, legendary MCs, and groundbreaking collaborations that continue to inspire future generations.

Old school hip hop fans share a deep appreciation for the culture, music, and history of the genre. From boom bap beats to underground mixtapes, these 10 aspects resonate deeply with those who grew up with hip hop as a way of life. As the genre continues to evolve, old school fans remain steadfast in their love and respect for the roots of hip hop culture.