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“Scripted in Black,” a celebration of 50 years of hip hop, is running at the Dayton Metro Library from Feb. 23 to March 31. The exhibit aims to spread more socially conscious awareness of the Black community in Dayton through art, music and performances.
[Black]nificince
The theme of the exhibit is [Black]nificence. According to its Facebook page, [Black]nificence is an immersive experience honoring the legacy of hip hop. Sean Korey, one of the artists and creators of the exhibit, explained the significance of this exhibit.
“Hip hop culture’s growth was tied to alternative options, outlets to the gang, street club interactions alongside everyday social engagements. In neighborhoods, much like that of West Dayton, hip hop gave us the voice to make it clear: you can’t ignore us, we exist,” Korey said.
Origins of hip hop and funk music
The U.S. House of Representatives recognized hip hop and other important Black musical genres with HR Resolution 476.
“All people in the United States were encouraged to learn more about the important role that African American artists have played in shaping history and culture,” the bill states.
The bill discussed the origins of Black music that emerged in the 1970s and 1980s, including the forms of funk, rhythm, blues, hip hop and rap, in cities across the country, including Los Angeles, Philadelphia, New York City and Atlanta.
According to Korey, the origins of hip hop and Black culture are synonymous.
“Hip hop ran through the blood of our ancestors. The pillars were established well before the mediums behind them. The music is a subculture, the lyrics a byproduct, a means to reveal all that are good, bad, beautiful and ugly.”
– Sean Korey
Funk music is so significant in the area that Dayton is the home of the Funk Music Hall of Fame & Exhibition Center. Korey explained the similarities between these two musical movements.
“The west coast sound is built upon Dayton and southwestern Ohio’s funk foundations. The push of the drums, the thump of the bass, the cut-through of the horns, and keys all topped with that swag,” Korey said. “One can’t help but feel that in a sample threaded through the prism of hip hop.”
More progress needed
While Korey hopes this exhibit helps raise more awareness for the Black and Brown communities of Dayton, Korey explains that there is more work to be done.
“Make a conscious effort to get behind the movements that are already happening. Do more to bring awareness to the projects, the businesses, the figures that are fighting to make Dayton a better place for everyone,” Korey said.
To view the exhibit, visit the Dayton Public Library located at 215 East Third Street in Dayton.
