Hip Hop Planet

In Hip Hop Planet, written by James McBride, it is clear that his perception of hip-hop has definitely changed. At first, McBride would cringe when hearing rap music. Towards the end of the story, McBride confesses a love for hip-hop music.  

            McBride changes his perception of hip-hop because he realizes that it is part of his culture. He would hear this music from car stereos to kids singing it on the streets. Everyday he would see the graffiti on street buildings and people dancing as he passed by. McBride realized that hip-hop was exploding across America. This music is identified with African-American roots. McBride, being an African-American, has come tom terms with hip-hop and embraces it as his culture.

            Culture plays a big part in one’s identity. Culture is the customs, arts, social institutions, and achievements of a particular nation, people, or other social group. McBride does not necessarily enjoy rap music, but he has a better tolerance of it knowing that it makes up a part of his identity.  McBride is an African-American who is proud of his identity, even if that means associating himself with the music, graffiti, and dancing of hip-hop.