This is a survey course that will examine the origins and rise of Hip-Hop as an artistic form and global cultural phenomenon. It is designed for students who wish to examine and explore Hip-Hop culture, while developing background knowledge of Hip-Hop history from the early 1970's South Bronx to its national and international role today. The connections between rap music and the other elements of Hip-Hop culture will be explored and students will be challenged to think critically about rap music and its place in society. Controversial subjects such as censorship, racism, sexism, and racial politics in America will be discussed as they relate to the subject matter. (CSU/UC) (AA/AS-C, CSU-C1, IGETC-3A)