"Fils du Hip Hop" (Son of Hip Hop) is a song by Gaël Faye, a rapper and author from Rwanda and France. The lyrics of the song tell the story of the birth and evolution of Hip Hop, as well as its impact on society. The song begins by describing the protagonist as a child of Hip Hop, who grew up under the presidency of Ronald Reagan. He played on torn mattresses in vacant lots and embraced the culture of graffiti and rap. Despite facing challenges, he was inspired by figures like Betty Shabazz and Coretta Scott, widows of Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr., respectively. As the song continues, it explores the origins of Hip Hop in the midst of societal changes. It highlights the absence of government support and social services, with DJs scratching in the abyss and graffiti artists leaving their mark on city walls. It mentions the death of poet Langston Hughes and the decline of the Harlem Renaissance. The song goes on to emphasize the grassroots nature of Hip Hop, how it emerged without formal musical training and became a voice for the marginalized. It references block parties and B-Boys, and how the genre created music without conventional musicians. It pays homage to the sampled influences of James Brown, Otis Redding, Funkadelic, George Clinton, and Ohio Players, which gave Hip Hop its raw, dusty sound. As the song progresses, it explores the broader impact of Hip Hop. It criticizes the superficial embrace of the culture by the bourgeoisie, from the hood to Hollywood, and the tightening grip of the music industry. It presents the tension between choosing revolutionary change or social ascension and acknowledges the commercialization of Hip Hop. The song delves into the power of Hip Hop in exposing the truth, countering media deception, and providing a platform for storytelling. It acknowledges that different neighborhoods and sectors have their own rappers, while also pointing out the system's exploitation of the genre. Towards the end, the song reflects on the transformation of Hip Hop, its desire for success and material wealth, and the impact of consumerism. It criticizes the ignorance of middle-class people who are attracted to the stereotypes of drugs, guns, and materialism, disregarding the cultural and social messages Hip Hop originated from. Despite the commercialization, the song emphasizes that the spirit of Hip Hop remains resilient as long as there is inequality and struggle in the neighborhoods. It encourages shutting out Hip Hop to avoid its influence, but it sarcastically adds that it will host a Block Party in your yard to keep you awake and aware. Overall, "Fils du Hip Hop" tells the story of Hip Hop's roots, its cultural impact, and the struggle between staying true to its origins and succumbing to commercialization. It highlights the genre's ability to give voice to the marginalized and address societal issues.
