Hip hop has become one of the most influential music genres of the modern era. It originated in the United States in the 1970s and quickly spread across the world, becoming a global phenomenon. European hip hop emerged in the 1980s, heavily influenced by American hip hop, but over time, it has developed its own unique style and identity. In this article, we will explore the impact of American hip hop on European hip hop, and how it has influenced the modern European hip hop culture.
American hip hop has had a significant influence on European hip hop in many ways. One of the most significant influences was the use of samples. European hip hop producers began to incorporate samples of American hip hop tracks into their music, creating a new hybrid sound that was both distinctly European and heavily influenced by American hip hop.
Another major influence was the use of English as the primary language in European hip hop. American hip hop was the primary influence on European hip hop, and English was the language used in early American hip hop tracks. European hip hop artists started to rap in English, even if it wasn’t their primary language, to emulate the American style and reach a broader audience.
The fashion and style of American hip hop artists also had a significant impact on European hip hop culture. In the early days of European hip hop, many artists dressed in a similar style to American hip hop artists, wearing baggy clothing and athletic gear. Over time, however, European hip hop artists began to develop their own unique fashion sense, incorporating elements of their own culture into their style.
One notable example of the influence of American hip hop on European hip hop is the French hip hop group, IAM. Their breakout album, “L’Ecole Du Micro d’Argent,” released in 1997, was largely in French, but also featured several tracks with English lyrics, including the hit single, “Je Danse Le Mia.” The album went on to become the best-selling French hip hop album of all time, selling over 1.5 million copies in France alone.
Another example is the German hip hop group, Die Fantastischen Vier. Their early music videos featured the group dressed in baggy clothing and athletic gear, similar to American hip hop artists of the time. However, as their career progressed, they began to incorporate elements of German culture into their fashion sense, wearing traditional Bavarian clothing in their music videos and on stage
Today, European hip hop culture has developed its own unique style and identity, but the influence of American hip hop can still be seen in the genre. The use of English in European hip hop continues to be prevalent, even though it’s not the native language of many artists. However, the language has evolved to incorporate more local slang and dialects, giving it a distinct European flavor.
The fashion and style of European hip hop artists have also evolved to incorporate local elements. Artists are now embracing their cultural heritage and incorporating traditional clothing and accessories into their fashion sense. For example, in the UK, grime artists often wear tracksuits and trainers, while French rappers incorporate fashion from Parisian high-end brands.
The influence of American hip hop on European hip hop has been significant. It has helped shape the genre into what it is today, creating a unique hybrid sound that is both distinctly European and heavily influenced by American hip hop. While European hip hop has developed its own style and identity, the influence of American hip hop will always be a part of its history and culture.