Today, August 7, marked the start of Good Morning America’s” week-long celebration honoring 50 years of hip hop with guests Jeezy and Offset. And there was no better way to start a party.
GMA Announces “Hip Hop Turns 50”
Last week, FM Hip Hop announced GMA’s initiatives to celebrate the culture with a top-notch lineup. GMA promised to set the tone with its selection of above-the-bar hip-hop artists. The plan was then to take it next level with choice topics, highlighting matters of importance in the hip-hop community. The only thing left was waiting to see if the celebratory offering would live up to the hype. So far, GMA’s delivered on its promise. Here are some highlights of the opening of this fantastic celebration.
Jeezy kicks off “Hip Hop Turns 50.”
Jeezy, an award-winning artist from South Carolina, was one of the first artists tapped to kick off the festivities. Not only did the artists come to perform some of the hottest songs in his catalog, but to talk about 50 years of culture and his new book. “Adversity for Sale: Ya Gotta Believe.” Jeezy sat down with ABC/Good Morning America Host Robin Roberts, diving straight in. Of particular highlight were his sentiments on Hip-hops’s massive impact. According to the artist, he believes that Hip-hop is a creative force. It is not merely an inlet for other artists to express their creativity. But, Hip-hop creates opportunities. In his words,
“hip-hop has given people the opportunity to become entrepreneurs, create jobs, help communities, and build generational wealth.”
The artist was not merely there to discuss the broader impact of Hip-hop. He was also there to share information about his work, which will be available soon to the masses. In his conversation, he gives fans and future readers a little to chew on as he discusses the purpose behind his book.
Offset sets it off “Hip Hop Turns 50.”
Jeezy wasn’t the only hip-hop artist to usher in this week. Offset was also onboard to kick things off. To fans’ delight, GMA aired a clip of Offset’s interview with ABC/GMA correspondent Kelly Carter. In that most informative segment, Offset explores several factions of his life, from how his career began to his parental approach. However, when asked about Hip-hop’s influence, he narrowed his focus to artistry. According to Offset,
“As hip-hop artists, we are very artistic. We influence every genre of music.”
What’s Ahead?
GMA’s “Hip Hop Turns 50” week-long bash is just getting started. On August 8, Glorilla will take things up a notch. As part of her one-on-one, she will discuss women in hip-hop over the last half a century, which promises to be interesting.
Stay Tuned
Although this is one day down, there is still more ahead. So “turn down for what?” Tune in to catch GMA’s gift to the culture in celebration of the culture.
Written By: Renae Richardson
