New Music
The Smithsonian Blazes August Release of Blockbuster Anthology of Hip-Hop and Rap Box Set
By Shane Farias / FM Hip Hop
The Smithsonian announced Wednesday its upcoming release of a massive collection and first-of-its-kind box set entitled the Smithsonian Anthology of Hip-Hop and Rap. It consists of nine discs and 120 tracks featuring artists such as N.W.A, Beastie Boys, The Pharcyde and Coolio.
The set also contains a 300-page book designed by Def Jam Recordings creative director, Cey Adams. Hundreds of photos detailing hip-hop culture and global prominence are included in the coffee table book.
According to Folkways, “It frequently highlights the objects and stories of hip-hop displayed in the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) galleries.”
The anthology spans the hip-hop era from 1979-2013, detailing the cultural phenomenon and its global impact. Its official release is on August 20, one month before the NMAAHC celebrates its five-year anniversary.
“We wanted the [Anthology] to be reflective of the culture,” says Dwandalyn R. Reece, NMAAHC’s associate director. “[And] of the music, of the people, of everything that is part of hip-hop.”
It is also the latest addition to the Smithsonian African American Legacy Series, which details an exploration of “the rich African American musical and oral heritage in the USA.”
This in-depth look into the roots of hip hop should be at the top of every shopping list.
You can preorder the Anthology right here.
Be sure to check out Questlove’s documentary feature here.
