The Smithsonian Institution has launched a national collecting initiative to gather objects related to hip-hop culture. According to a Smithsonian press release (PDF), the initiative, called "Hip-Hop Won't Stop: The Beat, The Rhymes, The Life," is seeking "objects from all aspects of hip-hop arts and culture, including vinyl records, handwritten lyrics, boom boxes, clothing and costumes, videos and interviews, Disc Jockey equipment and microphones, personal and business correspondence, and posters and photos." (Seen here, a mixer and cap that belonged to Grandmaster Flash.) The ceremonial launch begins today with hip-hop icons Russell Simmons, Ice T, Crazy Legs, and others expected in attendance. From the Associated Press:
"Hip-hop was born in New York but it's now a global phenomenon," said Valeska Hilbig, a National Museum spokeswoman. "It's here to stay, and it's part of American culture just like jazz is part of American history. It's part of the narrative we tell at the museum…"Hip-hop impresario Russell Simmons, scheduled to attend Tuesday's announcement at the Hilton New York, wouldn't say what he planned to donate. But he called the Smithsonian's recognition a "great statement for hip-hop."
"It's not a signal to the end of hip-hop," Simmons, co-founder of the venerable Def Jam label, said of the Smithsonian's undertaking. "We know it will be a lasting fixture. And it should be. All over the world hip-hop is expression of young people's struggles, their frustrations and opinions."
