Is Hip-Hop Responsible for Gun Violence in The Inner City?

I have a very personal and raw conversation about the intersection between gun culture and rap music with friend and former recording artist Chris Strong

[walperstyle]

I think the lack of jobs and the lack of a father figure in many kids lives leads to a pack mentality (such as a gang). Hip Hop was just a reflection of that reality. 2pac even said that if I remember correctly. The solution? Lower taxes, lessen regulations, let community leaders create a better tomorrow. Some of the worst neighbourhoods have houses for sale for $1000, but are still taxed at $70, 000 valuation. Tell me that isn't oppressive and keeping the ghetto from uplifting itself out of poverty. Untie the hands, get rid of the bureaucracy.

-James Walper, Libertarian

[mckwilly]

whether it's heavy dark metal or gangster rap it's carrys an attitude with it, but we all have choice, can't blame the gun for killing anymore the blaming certain music for certain behavior

[hellhounds]

Saying rap causes violence is like saying the Beatles caused Vietnam

[AGStyle]

As a white jewish kid who grew up in Philadelphia in the hood this was just such a beautiful video "we need to provide a contrast" regardless of race or background or ideology that was just inspiring

[Iscariot]

American black culture needs a serious reformation. Life is NOT about being as "thug" or "hard" as possible. People fall into this trap, and only the strongest of mind are able to resist the clarion call of "thug life".

[willa.]

This is something that's been on my mind for years now. I hate the state of rap now. I shift the blame towards the record companies. They take a young kids from the hood who never had anything and give them amounts of money they only dreamed of to promote the violence they see. They're being used and they don't even know it. When I was growing up in the 90's I was heavily influenced by Death row, and No limit Records and I carried myself in such a way. As I got older I realized how to carry myself in the right way. Dr. Dre said in "Express yourself" - " I don't smoke weed or a sess.
Cause its known to give a brother brain damage.
And brain damage on the mic don't manage." But he also said, "fuck the police" When he first came out. I've seen rap artist evolve as they see how far their influence spreads. This is something that doesn't happen to artist now cause they are fueled by the money machine. When is the last time you heard "Jesus walks' by kanye west on the radio? Violence sells. When " I love the coco" came out it was everywhere. Artist today have no one to show them the contrast. Great interview guys!

[Bryce]

Ain't nuthin to it, gangsta rap made me do it.

[knoname]

what a great conversation to have. an old one but a necessary one!

[constructionmanagement]

Hip Hop definitely influenced me at a young age. Parenting, social setting, environment, school, media, culture, it all affects us so much. Now as a parent I am constantly struggling with the amount of exposure my children have to the "world" around them. Great conversation.

[mistahshade]

thats like saying video games cause violence

[SbaDefender]

It's always so easy to find the people who don't actually pay attention to the content and just leave their 2 cents to hear themselves talk.

[scottguthrie]

This is the most positive example that i've seen in a Very long time. Well done, thank you!

[mozzberg]

I grew up on Wu-tang, Mob Deep, DMX, and that mid to late 90s hip hop. I will still listen to it, but I'm not going to rob and steal.

[benkrage]

one of the key faults in the world society finally being brought back into light. Music is so powerful and it definitely strengthens ones motives and ambitions

[foreverandaday]

No, it's poor upbringing. The lack of good/quality parenting, and education continues the cycle of a poor society, culture, and contributes to the lack of development. Regardless of the high probability of violence, jail, and/or death, criminal activity continues to look more promising in this social economic class.

[nicksanchez]

I just wrote about this in my book "My CCW." Bone Thugs N Harmony was a big influence on me as a teenager.

[alphadeity]

Rap music is not the reason for gun violence in the hood. I feel the same way about violent video games. The bigger issue is clearly the lack of parenting. Thanks for sharing this video. I'm a huge fan of this channel.

[micheltuggle]

Hats off to you both for this positive focus on life! ✌🏿️

[danteguyton]

Wow so well spoken and on point! Great work! It's so fantastic to see this behavior from men who stand firmly on a virtuous purpose!!

[richocetrabbit]

Yes, hip hop music has greatly influenced, glamorized and taught gun violence as well as other things such as being an entrepreneur. However, its the responsibility of the listener to determine which action they will take.