Write an essay, at least 500 words, giving your assessment of rap's response to the Reagan 1980s. What kind of social and political critiques did rap make? How did it depict the conditions that Black and other oppressed people dealt with? What do you think of the political and social messages in 1980s rap? Whose viewpoints and experiences did rap articulate? Feel free to be very opinionated in your essay.
Sample Solution
The 1980s was an exceptionally challenging time for Black and other oppressed people in America. The Reagan administration further implemented policies that increased poverty, inequality, and racial divisions while simultaneously ignoring the plight of those affected by its policies. In response to this state of affairs, rap music became a voice to provide critiques of society as well as express the feelings and experiences of many people during this difficult decade.
Rap music provided commentary on political issues such as government corruption, police brutality, lack of job opportunities for marginalized communities, racial discrimination and oppression. Songs such as "Fight the Power" by Public Enemy were particularly vocal about government failures in addressing systemic racism and civil rights abuses. Additionally, the song highlighted how culture can be used to challenge authority figures who fail to make things better for their citizens: “Elvis was a hero to most/But he never meant shit to me you see/Straight up racist that sucker was simple and plain/Motherfuck him and John Wayne”. This line highlights how even beloved cultural icons had been complicit in reinforcing oppressive systems against Black people; it served as an indictment against white privilege while encouraging listeners to reject false idols within American culture that have perpetuated racism throughout history.