Abstract
This paper considers the transformative role of Hip Hop Kréyol in the French West Indies (Guadeloupe and Martinique), emphasizing its profound impact on diasporas and Black identity within the region with cultural, social and political domains. Hip Hop Kréyol transcends conventional categorizations, authentically embodying the evolving definition of Black heritage worldwide. At its core, this genre champions the Creole language, serving as a versatile tool for self-expression and empowerment in both Guadeloupe and Martinique. Creole, native to FWI, emerged during the colonial era as a means of communication among a diverse populace, including enslaved Africans, European colonizers, and indigenous inhabitants. In addition, Hip Hop Kréyol serves as a cultural preservation tool, which embraces and reinterprets traditional cultural elements within the context of modern music and urban life. Through music and lyrics, it carries forward the rich cultural heritage, history, and customs of the FWI, ensuring they remain relevant and accessible to younger generations. This preservation of cultural identity is crucial in a globalized world where indigenous cultures often face assimilation. Finally, Hip Hop Kréyol addresses issues of race, inequality, and social justice, challenging established power structures. By doing so, the music genre not only raises awareness but also encourages critical thinking about identity and the impact of colonial legacies on contemporary society. These factors enables Hip Hop Kréyol to actively shape and redefine what it means to be Creole in the 21st century.
Presenters
Coraline KandassamyPhD Candidate, Comparative Studies/ Ethnomusicology/ French, Florida Atlantic University, Florida, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
The Arts in Social, Political, and Community Life
KEYWORDS
Hip hop, Caribbean, Music
