INTRODUCTION
Tamar
“We’re gonna party like it’s your birthday”
What might that involve?
Hundreds of women parading and booty shaking around you in skimpy clothing,
Sipping on the finest booze from Bacardi to wine,
Popping a few pills of ecstasy,
Cruising through an exotic desert in a fresh Hummer,
Surviving 9 bullet shots,
AND Buying as much bling as you could afford (even though the amount of money you spent COULD have been used to supply water to an entire village in Africa)
Well this is the definition of 50 Cent’s Birthday Party blow-out in his music video, “In Da Club.”
We selected 50 cent’s video because the lyrics and music video conveyed all of the major hyper masculine qualities in the hip/hop culture.
Due to the rough nature of Hip/Hop music, we want to warn you that 50 Cent’s video and our quotes from his songs and other artists will use vulgar language.
Brace yourself for it!
Now, Let’s take a look at 50 Cent’s Video “In Da Club,” from his album, “Get Rich or Die Trying,” from youtube.
PLAY VIDEO (4 mins.)
We have thoroughly analyzed hyper masculinity in 50 Cent’s video to explore the influence it has in the American culture.
We are all exposed to hyper masculinity through the music we party to, dance to, and sing along with. Many of us have mentioned that we like rap music in Professor Nichol’s class because “we like the beat.” However, what do the song lyrics really mean and what values and behaviors is it encouraging?
It promotes the exploitation of women, excessive drug and alcohol use, materialism, violence, and a macho appearance as an acceptable lifestyle in our community.
As you have seen, 50 Cent’s video features all of these hyper masculine qualities.
The themes of drug and alcohol, materialism, violence, exploitation of women, and macho physical appearance define hyper masculinity in the hip/hop culture.
Next, Katie will define and explain hyper masculinity and the way men and women are stereotyped in 50 cent’s video.
(end of intro.)
Katie: The rap culture promotes hyper masculinity as a typical lifestyle behavior of men. Wikipedia defines hyper-masculinity as “a psychological term for the exaggeration of male stereotypical behaviors. This has been viewed by many as a way for males to reclaim their masculinity, and by doing it in aggressive ways. Hip-hop videos showcase rapper’s extravagant bling-bling, booty shaking girls to emphasize physical strength, drinking, womanizing and wealth as characteristics that make up what a “real” man is. 50 cent’s video “In Da Club” is a prime example of hyper-masculinity. As a group we analyzed the stereotypes portrayed, language that was rapped about and the hyper-masculinity that fifty embodies in the “In Da Club” video.
By showing 50 cent with his shirt off, pumping iron and running on the treadmill supports the stereotype of men being physically fit and macho men. Nearly half of the video takes place in a work-out room. As part of 50 cents image the public is well aware the he has been shot 9 times and has still been able to survive. In Da Club video addresses these bullet wounds from his past to remind us of how tough he really is. The hip-hop culture is also viewed in the video by showing men as being violent. A scene in the video features 50 cent along with two other men with guns shooting at targets. 50 cent is also hooked up to a lie detector test, to portray his involvement in crime. These two visual examples evidence how crime and violence are incorporated in the video. This justifies his extreme masculinity. 50 Cent’s masculinity also involves being surrounded by gorgeous, minimally clothed women. Women function in 50 Cent’s video as sex symbols and possessions.
Transition: Hyper-masculinity is portrayed in all of these stereotypical ways to make fifty seem macho, and it all started from the very beginning of fifty’s fame.
JESSE:
The transition from hard times to becoming famous and making your own wealth is glorified, not just in the hip-hop industry but in all aspects of entertainment. Hip-hop is where it is focused on the most however. You’re a real man if you came from the streets, if you dealt with crime, violence and hustling. If you didn’t experience any of that, you don’t have credit, you don’t have respect, you’re less of a man.
Curtis 50 Cent Jackson was born in Queens, New York. He had a rough childhood, as his mother passed away when he was 8 due to a drug-related incident and his father left soon after, leaving 50 to be raised by his grandparents. He then started dealing drugs in the street. He was arrested multiple times and spent time in prison. It was then that he turned to rap and get his life back on the right track. He was discovered by Jam Master Jay in 1996 and the rest is history. Now he lives the life: the cars, the clothes, the women, the “bling.” This background is one that is portrayed as necessary to be a success in the hip-hop industry. The rough childhood, the death of loved ones, and growing up in the s treets are all key characteristics to a rappers resume. Now, what else makes you a man?
We analyzed 50 Cent’s music video, “In Da Club,” by identifying the five themes of hyper masculinity. Now we’ll explain the themes of hyper masculinity
“In hip-hop, images of thugged out, hypermasculine men of color, posing shirtless, greased up, muscular—decorate magazine and album covers.” This quote from a pbs article on hyper-masculinity in the hip-hop industry pretty much sums it up. This is what men are supposed to look like. Unreasonably muscular, ghetto, badass, ‘thugged” out. In reality however, these standards are unrealistic and provide hip-hop consumers with false norms and ideas. When these consumers watch rap videos and see these hyper-masculine tanks surrounded by beautiful women, it creates the idea that either you look like this, or you’re not a man. 50 Cent’s music video In Da Club is a perfect example.
http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/hiphop/gender.htm
In the opening scenes of this video we see Curtis Jackson, aka 50 Cent working out at a “rap artist development center.” He’s shirtless, wearing only a headband and workout pants. Needless to say he’s in incredible shape: abs, biceps, triceps, pecs, everything. Tattoos on his arms and stomach are visible for all to see. While the song is playing, we see him doing various workouts such as the treadmill, machine weights, and sit-ups while hanging from the ceiling. The song has nothing to do with working out, nothing to do with being in shape, nothing to do with being healthy. In fact it focuses on going out and having a good time “in da club” something most would not associate with the gym. Throughout the video the gym workout scenes keep appearing, again with no apparent connection to the theme of the song. Also in the scenes we see other characters, the scientists, or the people observing 50 Cent. In comparison to his muscular figure, these scientists are white, older, less fit men wearing white lab coats and carrying clipboards. They are most definitely given a much less flattering role than the star of the video.
50 Cent then appears in other scenes taking place in the club and in the recording studio. Once again he’s looking sharp, dressed up in all the latest fashion, his fitted cap and do rag, and of course, his chain. This is a style that is unrealistic for most people to afford, but again, this is portrayed as the standard for masculinity. I urge you, take a walk around campus or downtown and see how many men you see dressed like this, or in this kind of shape physically. It won’t be many. So why, may I ask, is this appearance made to seem normal and manly?
So what does this all mean? It means you need to be huge to be cool and to be considered a man. You need to be in the best shape of your life, basically physically perfect. You’re weak if you don’t fit this description. These ideas are damaging to normal humans. According the cpyu 3-D review of the video, “The lyrics and video to this party/dance anthem chronicle the creation of an indestructible rapper - a sort of "hip-hop Frankenstein". 50 Cent calls it "the supa-nigga video."” These standards and these images are not realistic for people to pursue. Even the artist himself speaks of the unrealistic image his character is given in the video. http://www.cpyu.org/Page.aspx?id=76859
You are born a man. You don’t become one by working out, getting in shape, or wearing expensive clothes. This rap video, and the hip-hop industry in general sends the opposite message. It sends the message that you can, and should work your way to becoming a man. While working out to become healthy and making yourself look good with nice clothing is not by any means a bad thing, it should not be the norm. It should not be a necessity to achieve manhood. It should not define a person, and neither should material possessions or how much you have to your name, which leads us to our next theme of hyper-masculinity: materialism.
Katie:
Artists rap about fancy cars, expensive jewelry, and materialistic possessions to see who comes out on top. Their videos display these fancy objects to add to the glamour to their life. After watching the video, we see that “In Da Club” starts out showing a Hummer with rims. This is a real macho car, as well as an expensive one. Later in the song he goes on to rap about fancy vehicles saying “when I pull out up front you see the benz on dub’s.” As you can see, a cars purpose in the hip-hop culture isn’t just to get from point A to point B, they are used as status symbols. The video is also filled with plasma screen televisions, fancy gym equipment, and fifty being decked out in his bling. The extravagant jewelry symbolizes 50 Cent’s identity to his wealth. Many other rappers showcase their bling in their music videos and on their CD albums. They flash it at the camera for extended periods of time to show off their success to the whole rap community. Rappers are to busy flaunting their wealth, that they are unaware of the long-term effects of their excessive spending. I’m sure many of you are familiar with the ever so famous MC Hammer. He is just one of the many hip-hop artists who had to file for bankruptcy. In the early 90’s he earned more than 33 million dollars, but he spent it all on keeping up with his lavish lifestyle. Many would think that money is not a problem with successful artists. However, in order to maintain their rich image they feel the need to keep up with the expensive trends and buy possessions to show-off. Especially since many hip-hop artist background, like jesse mentioned about fifty, is them coming from nothing and not having a lot of money. Once they earn millions and millions of dollars they want to show it off by the possessions they buy. Fifty goes on to rap about money saying “if u talking about money homie, I ain’t concern” re-establishing his ego that he is a wealthy man with a disposable income. The quote that best sums up the theme of material possessions adding to hyper masculinity is when he says Mah flow, Mah show, brought me the dough, that bought me all my fancy things, Mah Crib, mah cars, Mah pools, Mah jewels..” the repition of “my” signifies how independent he is, reinforcing his masculinity. The objects portrayed in his video are fantasy images that would appeal to many macho men.
Transition: Along with physical appearance and materialism to portray masculinity the
objectification of women is a prominent theme as well.
Kelsie: I. Introduction:
a. Thesis: Because of the ideal hyper masculinity in the hip hop culture rap artists feel as though they have the right to dominate over women. This attitude is evident in their lyrics as well as in their music videos.
Transition: This womanizing attitude is clearly present in our artifact 50 cent’s music video “In Da Club”. His lyrics undoubtedly prove his feelings towards woman on how he treats them, as well as how they should act towards him.
II. Main Point 1:Lyrics discriminate toward women
a. “I'm into having sex, I ain't into making love”
i. This is a direct quote from the lyrics of In Da Club found on lyrics.com and it is referencing to 50 cents attitude towards women and relationships with them.
1. Instead of a real relationship what he wants and is suggesting in his lyrics is that all he is looking for is a sexual relationship.
a. With no strings attached.
b. “Now shawty said she feeling my style, she feeling my flow
Her girlfriend willin to get bi and they ready to go”
i. Another lyric found within the song “In Da Club”
1. Continuing with his commanding attitude 50 cent expects the woman to do anything to please him and give him pleasure.
a. Even if that means degrading herself in the process.
i. Like it is stated in the lyric she should be willing to engage in sexual acts with a woman if she wants to be with 50 cent.
c. “I wink my eye at ya bitch, if she smiles she gone”
i. In this specific lyric 50 cent refers to a women as a derogative term that is typically linked to a negative meaning.
Transition: Obviously 50 cent refers to women in negative ways in his lyrics, but also he makes women appear as objects in his music videos
III. Main Point 2: Degrading toward woman in the rap videos
a. Ladies how many times have you gone out and a guy dropped a raunchy pick up line on you? Such as..
i. I miss my teddy bear will you sleep with me?
ii. Are your pants from outer space because you butt is out of this world
b. These terribly vulgar pick up lines degrade women, where are these guys learning this behavior towards women?
i. Where are these guys learning this type of behavior? Where did they learn that it is ok to treat women in this way?
1. It’s displayed all over the media especially in the music videos that we watch on MTV and BET.
2. Men in these rap videos not only use materialistic possessions to prove their masculinity but also how many beautiful women they have around them. The women in these videos are subjecting themselves to these men.
3. The article Big Primpin’. The world of rap video dancersstated that “The dancer’s job rarely brings a fair pay check: screen time is measured in milliseconds; talent is too often subordinate to sex appeal.”
4. The article then goes on to say that , “At casting sessions the women are openly treated as interchangeable, disposable goods.” The musicians do what they would like with them, treating them as objects. And because of the ideal hyper masculinity these men feel that it is all right to treat women as their property.
c. This exploitation is evident in 50 cent’s music video “In Da Club” .
i. In one of the scenes 50 has a beautiful women beside him while he is rapping the lyrics.
1. This women is just expected to sit there and act as his trophy.
2. Then later on in the music video when the women who is sitting next to him gets up 50 cent makes it obivious that he is staring at her butt. Demonstrating how he feels as though he can treat women as objects, in this case as a piece of meat.
ii. Throughout the video there are scenes of men surrounded by sexily clad women. This gives them a pimp appeal and makes the women again appear as though they are objects that they use to compare with other men in order to gain status and respect. Through this exploitation of women the audiences of the music videos view these men as their heroes. How can a pimp be a hero? In hyper masculinity this trait, being a pimp, is viewed positive and adds to their status as men.
Transition: Violence also contributes to a rappers hyper masculine identity.
Danielle: TRANSITION: So we’ve learned about how women are depicted in rap music, but in the eyes of the rappers, violence is what really makes a man, right?
According to http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1264/is_n10_v26/ai_17764985, LL Cool J believes that, "A hero is a man who goes out there and does what he has to do to provide for his family." When asked about hyper masculinity, he said, "There's a lot of hyper masculinity in rap music… But half of those rappers just need a hug and a father in their lives." LL Cool J shows his dismay for hyper masculinity, meanwhile in his song “Clockin’ G’s” he says,
So maybe LL Cool J just needs a hug… and 50 Cent?
Because 50 Cent was shot 9 times, you would think his music would promote safety and preach against black-on-black violence. Instead, he releases images of himself wearing bullet proof vests and carrying guns and uses violent lyrics like his in his songs. “Don’t Push Me” on his album “Get Rich or Die Tryin’” said,
“Pistol in hand homie, I'm down to get it poppin'
Once I squeeze the first shot you know I ain't stoppin'
Till my clip is empty, I'm simply
Not that nigga you should try your luck with, or fuck with
Hollow-tip shells struck you with your bones broken, gun smokin', still locin'
what nigga, lay your ass down paramedics get you up feeling”
In 50 Cent’s song “gotta make it to heaven,” he recites the Serenity Prayer. Two lines later in the song, he discusses killing people. Not only is this extremely hypocritical, but it shows that 50’s attitude is that you are still good enough to go to heaven even if you kill people. 50 believes that violence is no big deal and real men can kill people and not feel guilty about it.
The violence in rap is not subtle, with record labels such as Murder Inc. and Bad Boy it is clear that you must be violent to be a man. Rappers have died because of people acting out what they heard in the lyrics. Some don’t understand that these things are said to make money and should not always be taken so literally. Found on softpedia.com, “50 Cent is currently one of the most well-known and commercially successful rappers of the decade. Because the success of an artist in gangsta rap often depends on street credibility and reputation,
Interscope Records has sold 50 Cent as the "real deal".”
http://news.softpedia.com/news/Jay-Z-Says-Rap-Music-Overrates-Violence-And-Crime-8880.shtmlThis shows that each person that he went to the club with all brought out knives. This is to show that 50 Cent is tougher than you. The images of him with his shirt off is to show you that he’s stronger than you. The images of him with his bling is to show you that he’s richer than you. The images of him with women is to show you that he’s more attractive than you. And the lyrics about drugs and alcohol are to show you that he has more street credibility than you. That’s what rap is and that’s hyper masculinity at its finest.
TRANSITION: Now let’s hear about how drug and alcohol references in rap music can also be prime examples of hyper masculinity.
Lisa:
Drugs and alcohol also contribute to a rappers hyper masculine identity. When 50 cent walks into the club, with his boys who are just as strong and “cool” as he is, along with how they walk into the club as if they own it, how would someone who watches his videos not want to be like him? With songs known by 50 cent such as “high all the time” 50 cent is known for promoting unhealthy behavior. By watching a 50-cent video, hypermascuinity is portrayed that if you consume drugs and alcohol, your masculine, just like him when in reality someone can be masculine without it. In the video “In Da Club.” the second 50 cent walks into the club, beautiful, half naked women are pouring him drinks. Girls are everywhere, while the lyrics in the back rap “we going to sip Bacardi like its yo birthday.” Alcohol isn’t the only way 50 shows his masculinity, with unhealthy behavior, in his song he raps “ Look mami I got the X if you into taken drugs.” This quote is a way where 50 is flaunting what he has to get a girl, this is worse then the material possession he raps about, this time its drugs. If you want to be masculine like fifty and party the way he does, then you can have fun by doing drugs and alcohol. As shown in his videos, his lyrics talking about drugs are edited out, but the images in the videos, which are broadcasted on public television, still get shown. 50 cent flaunts his “healthy” body on the treadmill throughout the music video show that he is a strong masculine guy. He is also doing behavior that is very unhealthy. Hyper masculinity is shown in a very confusing and dysfunctional way, people watching rap artists want to go out and party like fifty, so they can be masculine and cool, but is this really what hyper masculine people need to do?
Tamar:
Transition: Now that we have expressed the demoralizing themes hyper masculine rap music promote, I will emphasize how this form of musical expression directly affects the youth in our community.
The values hyper masculinity promotes, impacts our community and the actions of the future generation in America.
“On average, Americanyouth listen to music from 1.5 to 2.5 hours a day, which doesnot include the amount of time they are exposed through music videos,” according to a study conducted by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Music becomes increasingly important to children as they grow older. Adolescents learn social interaction and gender roles from the message of the song. Many teens also base their values on the opinions of their favorite music artist. Essentially, the rapper becomes a child’s role model. It is easy to see how children adopt the behavior and values promoted through the music in the hip/hop culture.
Please raise your hand if knew every lyric to “Baby Got Back” in middle school?
A lot of us, right?
I remember in the 5th grade, you were the coolest kid if you could recite every lyric to Eminem’s slim shady video. I remember how all of my guy friends admired these rap stars at the time. They mimicked their behaviors by wearing band aid’s across their forehead like Nelly and bragging about their three to four “girlfriends” at recess. School districts have to establish policies to limit children’s habits that they have learned through music videos. Students in my school district are prohibited from wearing Bandanas. This is because the fashion accessory has been used to identify with gangs which were popularized by the hyper masculine rap culture.
Although it is funny to reflect back upon now, children, as we were, really are influenced by rap’s hyper masculine lyrics and actions in music videos.
This is evidenced by an increase in children’s crime rates, pregnancy rates, and alcohol use. Here are some startling statistics which can be linked to the hyper masculine values in hip/hop culture.
One of every eight persons murdered each year in America is under the age of 18 and one of every 18 victims of violent crime is under the age of 12” from an article from findarticles.com.
The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that nearly 900000 teenagers become pregnantin the United States each year which is 1 of every 5 sexually activeteen girls. An estimated 1 in 4 sexually active teens getsa STD every year which is 4 million teencases of STDs annually.
Underage drinking is a factor in half of all teen automobile crashes, the leading cause of death among teenagers as researched by the American Medical Association.
These statistics illustrate the negative effects hyper masculine music has on America’s youth.
Children want the objects that their perceived “role model,” rap stars, features in music videos.
Hyper masculine music is directed toward younger men aged 15 to 25. However, the age group that primarily appeals to the music is a younger audience of males aged 12 to 20. Children who listen to this genre of music are influenced to steal and rob others to obtain what is mentioned by rappers ranging from guns, drugs, or lavish jewelry. Robbery offending is concentrated in late adolescence with increasing rates starting at age 14 and peaking at age 19. Rates for 17-19-year-olds exceed rates for any other age category according to research conducted by the University of Colorado. For inner-city youth, robbery provides a way of acquiring status. The material gained from robbery contributes to status, the rewards and dominance which provide comfort, self-respect, and confidence.
Although it would be inaccurate to say that the hyper masculine characteristics portrayed in rap music are responsible for all of these negative effects, they do influence children. Hyper masculine values as illustrated through five themes impact the behavior and actions of the next generation.
CONCULSION:
Kelsie:
As you can see hyper masculinity is clearly portrayed in 50 cent’s music video and lyrics of “In Da Club.” It values materialistic possessions and physical appearances, endorses the exploitation of women, encourages violence and drug and alcohol use. These are the messages that are being conveyed in the music that we all have listened to and watched. These videos unconsciously are shaping the minds of the youth as well as distorting values. Relating to our analysis of hyper masculinity a quote from the article Hip-Hop Music Needs to Reflect People's Lives More Realistically “The message that it's OK to smoke, drink and sex your life away is a problem. The message that women are nothing more than pieces of sexual gratification [is a problem!] As catchy as the beats and lyrics are, the messages are distorted and irresponsible. Most people either hate the messages in rap music and the music altogether or love the music and accept the messages. Being in the position where you love the music and reject the messages is hard.” Are these the ideals that we want the next generation to value? Next time, listen to the actual lyrics! AND think twice before you “Party like a Rock star” or a rap star in this case.
Works Cited
Kelsie’s Bibliography:
Tamar’s Bibliography:
Fagan, J. (1998). Social Contexts and Adolescent Violence . Retrieved August 13, 2007, from
schoolviolence/FS-SV03.html
Martino, S. P. (2006, August 1). . In Exposure to Degrading Versus Nondegrading Music Lyrics and
Sexual Behavior Among Youth. Retrieved August 12, 2007, from American Acdemy of Pediatrics Web
Rap music and its violent progeny: America's culture of violence in context. (n.d.). Retrieved
is_200207/ai_n9085450/pg_4
Reducing Underage Drinking Through Coalitions: Youth and Adults United for Change. (2007, January
26). Retrieved August 13, 2007, from American Medical Association Web site:
Katie’s Bibliography
Danielle’s Bibliography
50 Cent don't push me. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2007, from http://www.lyrics4all.net/0/50-cent/
get-rich-or-die-tryin/dont-push-me.php
50 Cent gotta make it to heaven. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2007, from http://lyrics.astraweb.com/
display/295/50_cent..get_rich_or_die_tryin..gotta_make_it_to_heaven.html
50 Cent in da club. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2007, from http://lyrics.astraweb.com/display/921/
50_cent..get_rich_or_die_tryin..in_da_club.html
Clockin' G's lyrics. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2007, from http://www.lyricsondemand.com/l/
llcooljlyrics/clockingslyrics.html
George, N. (n.d.). LL Cool J's love jones - rapper/actor keeps love as theme of music. Retrieved
Stroia, M. (n.d.). Jay-Z says rap music overrates violence and crime . Retrieved August 11, 2007,
from http://news.softpedia.com/news/
Jay-Z-Says-Rap-Music-Overrates-Violence-And-Crime-8880.shtml
Jesse’s Outline:
- Hip-Hop, Beyond Beats and Rhymes. Retrieved August 10th 2007 from <http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/hiphop/gender.htm>
3. 50 Cent. Retrieved August 10th 2007 from <http://www.vh1.com/artists/az/50_cent/bio.jhtml>
INTRODUCTION
Tamar
“We’re gonna party like it’s your birthday”
What might that involve?
Hundreds of women parading and booty shaking around you in skimpy clothing,
Sipping on the finest booze from Bacardi to wine,
Popping a few pills of ecstasy,
Cruising through an exotic desert in a fresh Hummer,
Surviving 9 bullet shots,
AND Buying as much bling as you could afford (even though the amount of money you spent COULD have been used to supply water to an entire village in Africa)
Well this is the definition of 50 Cent’s Birthday Party blow-out in his music video, “In Da Club.”
We selected 50 cent’s video because the lyrics and music video conveyed all of the major hyper masculine qualities in the hip/hop culture.
Due to the rough nature of Hip/Hop music, we want to warn you that 50 Cent’s video and our quotes from his songs and other artists will use vulgar language.
Brace yourself for it!
Now, Let’s take a look at 50 Cent’s Video “In Da Club,” from his album, “Get Rich or Die Trying,” from youtube.
PLAY VIDEO (4 mins.)
We have thoroughly analyzed hyper masculinity in 50 Cent’s video to explore the influence it has in the American culture.
We are all exposed to hyper masculinity through the music we party to, dance to, and sing along with. Many of us have mentioned that we like rap music in Professor Nichol’s class because “we like the beat.” However, what do the song lyrics really mean and what values and behaviors is it encouraging?
It promotes the exploitation of women, excessive drug and alcohol use, materialism, violence, and a macho appearance as an acceptable lifestyle in our community.
As you have seen, 50 Cent’s video features all of these hyper masculine qualities.
The themes of drug and alcohol, materialism, violence, exploitation of women, and macho physical appearance define hyper masculinity in the hip/hop culture.
Next, Katie will define and explain hyper masculinity and the way men and women are stereotyped in 50 cent’s video.
(end of intro.)
Katie: The rap culture promotes hyper masculinity as a typical lifestyle behavior of men. Wikipedia defines hyper-masculinity as “a psychological term for the exaggeration of male stereotypical behaviors. This has been viewed by many as a way for males to reclaim their masculinity, and by doing it in aggressive ways. Hip-hop videos showcase rapper’s extravagant bling-bling, booty shaking girls to emphasize physical strength, drinking, womanizing and wealth as characteristics that make up what a “real” man is. 50 cent’s video “In Da Club” is a prime example of hyper-masculinity. As a group we analyzed the stereotypes portrayed, language that was rapped about and the hyper-masculinity that fifty embodies in the “In Da Club” video.
By showing 50 cent with his shirt off, pumping iron and running on the treadmill supports the stereotype of men being physically fit and macho men. Nearly half of the video takes place in a work-out room. As part of 50 cents image the public is well aware the he has been shot 9 times and has still been able to survive. In Da Club video addresses these bullet wounds from his past to remind us of how tough he really is. The hip-hop culture is also viewed in the video by showing men as being violent. A scene in the video features 50 cent along with two other men with guns shooting at targets. 50 cent is also hooked up to a lie detector test, to portray his involvement in crime. These two visual examples evidence how crime and violence are incorporated in the video. This justifies his extreme masculinity. 50 Cent’s masculinity also involves being surrounded by gorgeous, minimally clothed women. Women function in 50 Cent’s video as sex symbols and possessions.
Transition: Hyper-masculinity is portrayed in all of these stereotypical ways to make fifty seem macho, and it all started from the very beginning of fifty’s fame.
JESSE:
The transition from hard times to becoming famous and making your own wealth is glorified, not just in the hip-hop industry but in all aspects of entertainment. Hip-hop is where it is focused on the most however. You’re a real man if you came from the streets, if you dealt with crime, violence and hustling. If you didn’t experience any of that, you don’t have credit, you don’t have respect, you’re less of a man.
Curtis 50 Cent Jackson was born in Queens, New York. He had a rough childhood, as his mother passed away when he was 8 due to a drug-related incident and his father left soon after, leaving 50 to be raised by his grandparents. He then started dealing drugs in the street. He was arrested multiple times and spent time in prison. It was then that he turned to rap and get his life back on the right track. He was discovered by Jam Master Jay in 1996 and the rest is history. Now he lives the life: the cars, the clothes, the women, the “bling.” This background is one that is portrayed as necessary to be a success in the hip-hop industry. The rough childhood, the death of loved ones, and growing up in the s treets are all key characteristics to a rappers resume. Now, what else makes you a man?
We analyzed 50 Cent’s music video, “In Da Club,” by identifying the five themes of hyper masculinity. Now we’ll explain the themes of hyper masculinity
“In hip-hop, images of thugged out, hypermasculine men of color, posing shirtless, greased up, muscular—decorate magazine and album covers.” This quote from a pbs article on hyper-masculinity in the hip-hop industry pretty much sums it up. This is what men are supposed to look like. Unreasonably muscular, ghetto, badass, ‘thugged” out. In reality however, these standards are unrealistic and provide hip-hop consumers with false norms and ideas. When these consumers watch rap videos and see these hyper-masculine tanks surrounded by beautiful women, it creates the idea that either you look like this, or you’re not a man. 50 Cent’s music video In Da Club is a perfect example.
http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/hiphop/gender.htm
In the opening scenes of this video we see Curtis Jackson, aka 50 Cent working out at a “rap artist development center.” He’s shirtless, wearing only a headband and workout pants. Needless to say he’s in incredible shape: abs, biceps, triceps, pecs, everything. Tattoos on his arms and stomach are visible for all to see. While the song is playing, we see him doing various workouts such as the treadmill, machine weights, and sit-ups while hanging from the ceiling. The song has nothing to do with working out, nothing to do with being in shape, nothing to do with being healthy. In fact it focuses on going out and having a good time “in da club” something most would not associate with the gym. Throughout the video the gym workout scenes keep appearing, again with no apparent connection to the theme of the song. Also in the scenes we see other characters, the scientists, or the people observing 50 Cent. In comparison to his muscular figure, these scientists are white, older, less fit men wearing white lab coats and carrying clipboards. They are most definitely given a much less flattering role than the star of the video.
50 Cent then appears in other scenes taking place in the club and in the recording studio. Once again he’s looking sharp, dressed up in all the latest fashion, his fitted cap and do rag, and of course, his chain. This is a style that is unrealistic for most people to afford, but again, this is portrayed as the standard for masculinity. I urge you, take a walk around campus or downtown and see how many men you see dressed like this, or in this kind of shape physically. It won’t be many. So why, may I ask, is this appearance made to seem normal and manly?
So what does this all mean? It means you need to be huge to be cool and to be considered a man. You need to be in the best shape of your life, basically physically perfect. You’re weak if you don’t fit this description. These ideas are damaging to normal humans. According the cpyu 3-D review of the video, “The lyrics and video to this party/dance anthem chronicle the creation of an indestructible rapper - a sort of "hip-hop Frankenstein". 50 Cent calls it "the supa-nigga video."” These standards and these images are not realistic for people to pursue. Even the artist himself speaks of the unrealistic image his character is given in the video. http://www.cpyu.org/Page.aspx?id=76859
You are born a man. You don’t become one by working out, getting in shape, or wearing expensive clothes. This rap video, and the hip-hop industry in general sends the opposite message. It sends the message that you can, and should work your way to becoming a man. While working out to become healthy and making yourself look good with nice clothing is not by any means a bad thing, it should not be the norm. It should not be a necessity to achieve manhood. It should not define a person, and neither should material possessions or how much you have to your name, which leads us to our next theme of hyper-masculinity: materialism.
Katie:
Artists rap about fancy cars, expensive jewelry, and materialistic possessions to see who comes out on top. Their videos display these fancy objects to add to the glamour to their life. After watching the video, we see that “In Da Club” starts out showing a Hummer with rims. This is a real macho car, as well as an expensive one. Later in the song he goes on to rap about fancy vehicles saying “when I pull out up front you see the benz on dub’s.” As you can see, a cars purpose in the hip-hop culture isn’t just to get from point A to point B, they are used as status symbols. The video is also filled with plasma screen televisions, fancy gym equipment, and fifty being decked out in his bling. The extravagant jewelry symbolizes 50 Cent’s identity to his wealth. Many other rappers showcase their bling in their music videos and on their CD albums. They flash it at the camera for extended periods of time to show off their success to the whole rap community. Rappers are to busy flaunting their wealth, that they are unaware of the long-term effects of their excessive spending. I’m sure many of you are familiar with the ever so famous MC Hammer. He is just one of the many hip-hop artists who had to file for bankruptcy. In the early 90’s he earned more than 33 million dollars, but he spent it all on keeping up with his lavish lifestyle. Many would think that money is not a problem with successful artists. However, in order to maintain their rich image they feel the need to keep up with the expensive trends and buy possessions to show-off. Especially since many hip-hop artist background, like jesse mentioned about fifty, is them coming from nothing and not having a lot of money. Once they earn millions and millions of dollars they want to show it off by the possessions they buy. Fifty goes on to rap about money saying “if u talking about money homie, I ain’t concern” re-establishing his ego that he is a wealthy man with a disposable income. The quote that best sums up the theme of material possessions adding to hyper masculinity is when he says Mah flow, Mah show, brought me the dough, that bought me all my fancy things, Mah Crib, mah cars, Mah pools, Mah jewels..” the repition of “my” signifies how independent he is, reinforcing his masculinity. The objects portrayed in his video are fantasy images that would appeal to many macho men.
Transition: Along with physical appearance and materialism to portray masculinity the
objectification of women is a prominent theme as well.
Kelsie: I. Introduction:
a. Thesis: Because of the ideal hyper masculinity in the hip hop culture rap artists feel as though they have the right to dominate over women. This attitude is evident in their lyrics as well as in their music videos.
Transition: This womanizing attitude is clearly present in our artifact 50 cent’s music video “In Da Club”. His lyrics undoubtedly prove his feelings towards woman on how he treats them, as well as how they should act towards him.
II. Main Point 1:Lyrics discriminate toward women
a. “I'm into having sex, I ain't into making love”
i. This is a direct quote from the lyrics of In Da Club found on lyrics.com and it is referencing to 50 cents attitude towards women and relationships with them.
1. Instead of a real relationship what he wants and is suggesting in his lyrics is that all he is looking for is a sexual relationship.
a. With no strings attached.
b. “Now shawty said she feeling my style, she feeling my flow
Her girlfriend willin to get bi and they ready to go”
i. Another lyric found within the song “In Da Club”
1. Continuing with his commanding attitude 50 cent expects the woman to do anything to please him and give him pleasure.
a. Even if that means degrading herself in the process.
i. Like it is stated in the lyric she should be willing to engage in sexual acts with a woman if she wants to be with 50 cent.
c. “I wink my eye at ya bitch, if she smiles she gone”
i. In this specific lyric 50 cent refers to a women as a derogative term that is typically linked to a negative meaning.
Transition: Obviously 50 cent refers to women in negative ways in his lyrics, but also he makes women appear as objects in his music videos
III. Main Point 2: Degrading toward woman in the rap videos
a. Ladies how many times have you gone out and a guy dropped a raunchy pick up line on you? Such as..
i. I miss my teddy bear will you sleep with me?
ii. Are your pants from outer space because you butt is out of this world
b. These terribly vulgar pick up lines degrade women, where are these guys learning this behavior towards women?
i. Where are these guys learning this type of behavior? Where did they learn that it is ok to treat women in this way?
1. It’s displayed all over the media especially in the music videos that we watch on MTV and BET.
2. Men in these rap videos not only use materialistic possessions to prove their masculinity but also how many beautiful women they have around them. The women in these videos are subjecting themselves to these men.
3. The article Big Primpin’. The world of rap video dancersstated that “The dancer’s job rarely brings a fair pay check: screen time is measured in milliseconds; talent is too often subordinate to sex appeal.”
4. The article then goes on to say that , “At casting sessions the women are openly treated as interchangeable, disposable goods.” The musicians do what they would like with them, treating them as objects. And because of the ideal hyper masculinity these men feel that it is all right to treat women as their property.
c. This exploitation is evident in 50 cent’s music video “In Da Club” .
i. In one of the scenes 50 has a beautiful women beside him while he is rapping the lyrics.
1. This women is just expected to sit there and act as his trophy.
2. Then later on in the music video when the women who is sitting next to him gets up 50 cent makes it obivious that he is staring at her butt. Demonstrating how he feels as though he can treat women as objects, in this case as a piece of meat.
ii. Throughout the video there are scenes of men surrounded by sexily clad women. This gives them a pimp appeal and makes the women again appear as though they are objects that they use to compare with other men in order to gain status and respect. Through this exploitation of women the audiences of the music videos view these men as their heroes. How can a pimp be a hero? In hyper masculinity this trait, being a pimp, is viewed positive and adds to their status as men.
Transition: Violence also contributes to a rappers hyper masculine identity.
Danielle: TRANSITION: So we’ve learned about how women are depicted in rap music, but in the eyes of the rappers, violence is what really makes a man, right?
According to http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1264/is_n10_v26/ai_17764985, LL Cool J believes that, "A hero is a man who goes out there and does what he has to do to provide for his family." When asked about hyper masculinity, he said, "There's a lot of hyper masculinity in rap music… But half of those rappers just need a hug and a father in their lives." LL Cool J shows his dismay for hyper masculinity, meanwhile in his song “Clockin’ G’s” he says,
So maybe LL Cool J just needs a hug… and 50 Cent?
Because 50 Cent was shot 9 times, you would think his music would promote safety and preach against black-on-black violence. Instead, he releases images of himself wearing bullet proof vests and carrying guns and uses violent lyrics like his in his songs. “Don’t Push Me” on his album “Get Rich or Die Tryin’” said,
“Pistol in hand homie, I'm down to get it poppin'
Once I squeeze the first shot you know I ain't stoppin'
Till my clip is empty, I'm simply
Not that nigga you should try your luck with, or fuck with
Hollow-tip shells struck you with your bones broken, gun smokin', still locin'
what nigga, lay your ass down paramedics get you up feeling”
In 50 Cent’s song “gotta make it to heaven,” he recites the Serenity Prayer. Two lines later in the song, he discusses killing people. Not only is this extremely hypocritical, but it shows that 50’s attitude is that you are still good enough to go to heaven even if you kill people. 50 believes that violence is no big deal and real men can kill people and not feel guilty about it.
The violence in rap is not subtle, with record labels such as Murder Inc. and Bad Boy it is clear that you must be violent to be a man. Rappers have died because of people acting out what they heard in the lyrics. Some don’t understand that these things are said to make money and should not always be taken so literally. Found on softpedia.com, “50 Cent is currently one of the most well-known and commercially successful rappers of the decade. Because the success of an artist in gangsta rap often depends on street credibility and reputation,
Interscope Records has sold 50 Cent as the "real deal".”
http://news.softpedia.com/news/Jay-Z-Says-Rap-Music-Overrates-Violence-And-Crime-8880.shtmlThis shows that each person that he went to the club with all brought out knives. This is to show that 50 Cent is tougher than you. The images of him with his shirt off is to show you that he’s stronger than you. The images of him with his bling is to show you that he’s richer than you. The images of him with women is to show you that he’s more attractive than you. And the lyrics about drugs and alcohol are to show you that he has more street credibility than you. That’s what rap is and that’s hyper masculinity at its finest.
TRANSITION: Now let’s hear about how drug and alcohol references in rap music can also be prime examples of hyper masculinity.
Lisa:
Drugs and alcohol also contribute to a rappers hyper masculine identity. When 50 cent walks into the club, with his boys who are just as strong and “cool” as he is, along with how they walk into the club as if they own it, how would someone who watches his videos not want to be like him? With songs known by 50 cent such as “high all the time” 50 cent is known for promoting unhealthy behavior. By watching a 50-cent video, hypermascuinity is portrayed that if you consume drugs and alcohol, your masculine, just like him when in reality someone can be masculine without it. In the video “In Da Club.” the second 50 cent walks into the club, beautiful, half naked women are pouring him drinks. Girls are everywhere, while the lyrics in the back rap “we going to sip Bacardi like its yo birthday.” Alcohol isn’t the only way 50 shows his masculinity, with unhealthy behavior, in his song he raps “ Look mami I got the X if you into taken drugs.” This quote is a way where 50 is flaunting what he has to get a girl, this is worse then the material possession he raps about, this time its drugs. If you want to be masculine like fifty and party the way he does, then you can have fun by doing drugs and alcohol. As shown in his videos, his lyrics talking about drugs are edited out, but the images in the videos, which are broadcasted on public television, still get shown. 50 cent flaunts his “healthy” body on the treadmill throughout the music video show that he is a strong masculine guy. He is also doing behavior that is very unhealthy. Hyper masculinity is shown in a very confusing and dysfunctional way, people watching rap artists want to go out and party like fifty, so they can be masculine and cool, but is this really what hyper masculine people need to do?
Tamar:
Transition: Now that we have expressed the demoralizing themes hyper masculine rap music promote, I will emphasize how this form of musical expression directly affects the youth in our community.
The values hyper masculinity promotes, impacts our community and the actions of the future generation in America.
“On average, Americanyouth listen to music from 1.5 to 2.5 hours a day, which doesnot include the amount of time they are exposed through music videos,” according to a study conducted by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Music becomes increasingly important to children as they grow older. Adolescents learn social interaction and gender roles from the message of the song. Many teens also base their values on the opinions of their favorite music artist. Essentially, the rapper becomes a child’s role model. It is easy to see how children adopt the behavior and values promoted through the music in the hip/hop culture.
Please raise your hand if knew every lyric to “Baby Got Back” in middle school?
A lot of us, right?
I remember in the 5th grade, you were the coolest kid if you could recite every lyric to Eminem’s slim shady video. I remember how all of my guy friends admired these rap stars at the time. They mimicked their behaviors by wearing band aid’s across their forehead like Nelly and bragging about their three to four “girlfriends” at recess. School districts have to establish policies to limit children’s habits that they have learned through music videos. Students in my school district are prohibited from wearing Bandanas. This is because the fashion accessory has been used to identify with gangs which were popularized by the hyper masculine rap culture.
Although it is funny to reflect back upon now, children, as we were, really are influenced by rap’s hyper masculine lyrics and actions in music videos.
This is evidenced by an increase in children’s crime rates, pregnancy rates, and alcohol use. Here are some startling statistics which can be linked to the hyper masculine values in hip/hop culture.
One of every eight persons murdered each year in America is under the age of 18 and one of every 18 victims of violent crime is under the age of 12” from an article from findarticles.com.
The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that nearly 900000 teenagers become pregnantin the United States each year which is 1 of every 5 sexually activeteen girls. An estimated 1 in 4 sexually active teens getsa STD every year which is 4 million teencases of STDs annually.
Underage drinking is a factor in half of all teen automobile crashes, the leading cause of death among teenagers as researched by the American Medical Association.
These statistics illustrate the negative effects hyper masculine music has on America’s youth.
Children want the objects that their perceived “role model,” rap stars, features in music videos.
Hyper masculine music is directed toward younger men aged 15 to 25. However, the age group that primarily appeals to the music is a younger audience of males aged 12 to 20. Children who listen to this genre of music are influenced to steal and rob others to obtain what is mentioned by rappers ranging from guns, drugs, or lavish jewelry. Robbery offending is concentrated in late adolescence with increasing rates starting at age 14 and peaking at age 19. Rates for 17-19-year-olds exceed rates for any other age category according to research conducted by the University of Colorado. For inner-city youth, robbery provides a way of acquiring status. The material gained from robbery contributes to status, the rewards and dominance which provide comfort, self-respect, and confidence.
Although it would be inaccurate to say that the hyper masculine characteristics portrayed in rap music are responsible for all of these negative effects, they do influence children. Hyper masculine values as illustrated through five themes impact the behavior and actions of the next generation.
CONCULSION:
Kelsie:
As you can see hyper masculinity is clearly portrayed in 50 cent’s music video and lyrics of “In Da Club.” It values materialistic possessions and physical appearances, endorses the exploitation of women, encourages violence and drug and alcohol use. These are the messages that are being conveyed in the music that we all have listened to and watched. These videos unconsciously are shaping the minds of the youth as well as distorting values. Relating to our analysis of hyper masculinity a quote from the article Hip-Hop Music Needs to Reflect People's Lives More Realistically “The message that it's OK to smoke, drink and sex your life away is a problem. The message that women are nothing more than pieces of sexual gratification [is a problem!] As catchy as the beats and lyrics are, the messages are distorted and irresponsible. Most people either hate the messages in rap music and the music altogether or love the music and accept the messages. Being in the position where you love the music and reject the messages is hard.” Are these the ideals that we want the next generation to value? Next time, listen to the actual lyrics! AND think twice before you “Party like a Rock star” or a rap star in this case.
Works Cited
Kelsie’s Bibliography:
Tamar’s Bibliography:
Fagan, J. (1998). Social Contexts and Adolescent Violence . Retrieved August 13, 2007, from
schoolviolence/FS-SV03.html
Martino, S. P. (2006, August 1). . In Exposure to Degrading Versus Nondegrading Music Lyrics and
Sexual Behavior Among Youth. Retrieved August 12, 2007, from American Acdemy of Pediatrics Web
Rap music and its violent progeny: America's culture of violence in context. (n.d.). Retrieved
is_200207/ai_n9085450/pg_4
Reducing Underage Drinking Through Coalitions: Youth and Adults United for Change. (2007, January
26). Retrieved August 13, 2007, from American Medical Association Web site:
Katie’s Bibliography
Danielle’s Bibliography
50 Cent don't push me. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2007, from http://www.lyrics4all.net/0/50-cent/
get-rich-or-die-tryin/dont-push-me.php
50 Cent gotta make it to heaven. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2007, from http://lyrics.astraweb.com/
display/295/50_cent..get_rich_or_die_tryin..gotta_make_it_to_heaven.html
50 Cent in da club. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2007, from http://lyrics.astraweb.com/display/921/
50_cent..get_rich_or_die_tryin..in_da_club.html
Clockin' G's lyrics. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2007, from http://www.lyricsondemand.com/l/
llcooljlyrics/clockingslyrics.html
George, N. (n.d.). LL Cool J's love jones - rapper/actor keeps love as theme of music. Retrieved
Stroia, M. (n.d.). Jay-Z says rap music overrates violence and crime . Retrieved August 11, 2007,
from http://news.softpedia.com/news/
Jay-Z-Says-Rap-Music-Overrates-Violence-And-Crime-8880.shtml
Jesse’s Outline:
- Hip-Hop, Beyond Beats and Rhymes. Retrieved August 10th 2007 from <http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/hiphop/gender.htm>
3. 50 Cent. Retrieved August 10th 2007 from <http://www.vh1.com/artists/az/50_cent/bio.jhtml>
- Working together using this wiki
- Group members
- Sources
- Meetings
-
Outline:
-
INTRODUCTION
Tamar
“We’re gonna party like it’s your birthday”
What might that involve?
Hundreds of women parading and booty shaking around you in skimpy clothing,
Sipping on the finest booze from Bacardi to wine,
Popping a few pills of ecstasy,
Cruising through an exotic desert in a fresh Hummer,
Surviving 9 bullet shots,
AND Buying as much bling as you could afford (even though the amount of money you spent COULD have been used to supply water to an entire village in Africa)
Well this is the definition of 50 Cent’s Birthday Party blow-out in his music video, “In Da Club.”
We selected 50 cent’s video because the lyrics and music video conveyed all of the major hyper masculine qualities in the hip/hop culture.
Due to the rough nature of Hip/Hop music, we want to warn you that 50 Cent’s video and our quotes from his songs and other artists will use vulgar language.
Brace yourself for it!
Now, Let’s take a look at 50 Cent’s Video “In Da Club,” from his album, “Get Rich or Die Trying,” from youtube.
PLAY VIDEO (4 mins.)
We have thoroughly analyzed hyper masculinity in 50 Cent’s video to explore the influence it has in the American culture.
We are all exposed to hyper masculinity through the music we party to, dance to, and sing along with. Many of us have mentioned that we like rap music in Professor Nichol’s class because “we like the beat.” However, what do the song lyrics really mean and what values and behaviors is it encouraging?
It promotes the exploitation of women, excessive drug and alcohol use, materialism, violence, and a macho appearance as an acceptable lifestyle in our community.
As you have seen, 50 Cent’s video features all of these hyper masculine qualities.
The themes of drug and alcohol, materialism, violence, exploitation of women, and macho physical appearance define hyper masculinity in the hip/hop culture.
Next, Katie will define and explain hyper masculinity and the way men and women are stereotyped in 50 cent’s video.
(end of intro.)
Katie: The rap culture promotes hyper masculinity as a typical lifestyle behavior of men. Wikipedia defines hyper-masculinity as “a psychological term for the exaggeration of male stereotypical behaviors. This has been viewed by many as a way for males to reclaim their masculinity, and by doing it in aggressive ways. Hip-hop videos showcase rapper’s extravagant bling-bling, booty shaking girls to emphasize physical strength, drinking, womanizing and wealth as characteristics that make up what a “real” man is. 50 cent’s video “In Da Club” is a prime example of hyper-masculinity. As a group we analyzed the stereotypes portrayed, language that was rapped about and the hyper-masculinity that fifty embodies in the “In Da Club” video.
By showing 50 cent with his shirt off, pumping iron and running on the treadmill supports the stereotype of men being physically fit and macho men. Nearly half of the video takes place in a work-out room. As part of 50 cents image the public is well aware the he has been shot 9 times and has still been able to survive. In Da Club video addresses these bullet wounds from his past to remind us of how tough he really is. The hip-hop culture is also viewed in the video by showing men as being violent. A scene in the video features 50 cent along with two other men with guns shooting at targets. 50 cent is also hooked up to a lie detector test, to portray his involvement in crime. These two visual examples evidence how crime and violence are incorporated in the video. This justifies his extreme masculinity. 50 Cent’s masculinity also involves being surrounded by gorgeous, minimally clothed women. Women function in 50 Cent’s video as sex symbols and possessions.
Transition: Hyper-masculinity is portrayed in all of these stereotypical ways to make fifty seem macho, and it all started from the very beginning of fifty’s fame.
JESSE:
The transition from hard times to becoming famous and making your own wealth is glorified, not just in the hip-hop industry but in all aspects of entertainment. Hip-hop is where it is focused on the most however. You’re a real man if you came from the streets, if you dealt with crime, violence and hustling. If you didn’t experience any of that, you don’t have credit, you don’t have respect, you’re less of a man.
Curtis 50 Cent Jackson was born in Queens, New York. He had a rough childhood, as his mother passed away when he was 8 due to a drug-related incident and his father left soon after, leaving 50 to be raised by his grandparents. He then started dealing drugs in the street. He was arrested multiple times and spent time in prison. It was then that he turned to rap and get his life back on the right track. He was discovered by Jam Master Jay in 1996 and the rest is history. Now he lives the life: the cars, the clothes, the women, the “bling.” This background is one that is portrayed as necessary to be a success in the hip-hop industry. The rough childhood, the death of loved ones, and growing up in the s treets are all key characteristics to a rappers resume. Now, what else makes you a man?
We analyzed 50 Cent’s music video, “In Da Club,” by identifying the five themes of hyper masculinity. Now we’ll explain the themes of hyper masculinity
“In hip-hop, images of thugged out, hypermasculine men of color, posing shirtless, greased up, muscular—decorate magazine and album covers.” This quote from a pbs article on hyper-masculinity in the hip-hop industry pretty much sums it up. This is what men are supposed to look like. Unreasonably muscular, ghetto, badass, ‘thugged” out. In reality however, these standards are unrealistic and provide hip-hop consumers with false norms and ideas. When these consumers watch rap videos and see these hyper-masculine tanks surrounded by beautiful women, it creates the idea that either you look like this, or you’re not a man. 50 Cent’s music video In Da Club is a perfect example. http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/hiphop/gender.htm
In the opening scenes of this video we see Curtis Jackson, aka 50 Cent working out at a “rap artist development center.” He’s shirtless, wearing only a headband and workout pants. Needless to say he’s in incredible shape: abs, biceps, triceps, pecs, everything. Tattoos on his arms and stomach are visible for all to see. While the song is playing, we see him doing various workouts such as the treadmill, machine weights, and sit-ups while hanging from the ceiling. The song has nothing to do with working out, nothing to do with being in shape, nothing to do with being healthy. In fact it focuses on going out and having a good time “in da club” something most would not associate with the gym. Throughout the video the gym workout scenes keep appearing, again with no apparent connection to the theme of the song. Also in the scenes we see other characters, the scientists, or the people observing 50 Cent. In comparison to his muscular figure, these scientists are white, older, less fit men wearing white lab coats and carrying clipboards. They are most definitely given a much less flattering role than the star of the video.
50 Cent then appears in other scenes taking place in the club and in the recording studio. Once again he’s looking sharp, dressed up in all the latest fashion, his fitted cap and do rag, and of course, his chain. This is a style that is unrealistic for most people to afford, but again, this is portrayed as the standard for masculinity. I urge you, take a walk around campus or downtown and see how many men you see dressed like this, or in this kind of shape physically. It won’t be many. So why, may I ask, is this appearance made to seem normal and manly?
So what does this all mean? It means you need to be huge to be cool and to be considered a man. You need to be in the best shape of your life, basically physically perfect. You’re weak if you don’t fit this description. These ideas are damaging to normal humans. According the cpyu 3-D review of the video, “The lyrics and video to this party/dance anthem chronicle the creation of an indestructible rapper - a sort of "hip-hop Frankenstein". 50 Cent calls it "the supa-nigga video."” These standards and these images are not realistic for people to pursue. Even the artist himself speaks of the unrealistic image his character is given in the video. http://www.cpyu.org/Page.aspx?id=76859
You are born a man. You don’t become one by working out, getting in shape, or wearing expensive clothes. This rap video, and the hip-hop industry in general sends the opposite message. It sends the message that you can, and should work your way to becoming a man. While working out to become healthy and making yourself look good with nice clothing is not by any means a bad thing, it should not be the norm. It should not be a necessity to achieve manhood. It should not define a person, and neither should material possessions or how much you have to your name, which leads us to our next theme of hyper-masculinity: materialism.
Katie:
Artists rap about fancy cars, expensive jewelry, and materialistic possessions to see who comes out on top. Their videos display these fancy objects to add to the glamour to their life. After watching the video, we see that “In Da Club” starts out showing a Hummer with rims. This is a real macho car, as well as an expensive one. Later in the song he goes on to rap about fancy vehicles saying “when I pull out up front you see the benz on dub’s.” As you can see, a cars purpose in the hip-hop culture isn’t just to get from point A to point B, they are used as status symbols. The video is also filled with plasma screen televisions, fancy gym equipment, and fifty being decked out in his bling. The extravagant jewelry symbolizes 50 Cent’s identity to his wealth. Many other rappers showcase their bling in their music videos and on their CD albums. They flash it at the camera for extended periods of time to show off their success to the whole rap community. Rappers are to busy flaunting their wealth, that they are unaware of the long-term effects of their excessive spending. I’m sure many of you are familiar with the ever so famous MC Hammer. He is just one of the many hip-hop artists who had to file for bankruptcy. In the early 90’s he earned more than 33 million dollars, but he spent it all on keeping up with his lavish lifestyle. Many would think that money is not a problem with successful artists. However, in order to maintain their rich image they feel the need to keep up with the expensive trends and buy possessions to show-off. Especially since many hip-hop artist background, like jesse mentioned about fifty, is them coming from nothing and not having a lot of money. Once they earn millions and millions of dollars they want to show it off by the possessions they buy. Fifty goes on to rap about money saying “if u talking about money homie, I ain’t concern” re-establishing his ego that he is a wealthy man with a disposable income. The quote that best sums up the theme of material possessions adding to hyper masculinity is when he says Mah flow, Mah show, brought me the dough, that bought me all my fancy things, Mah Crib, mah cars, Mah pools, Mah jewels..” the repition of “my” signifies how independent he is, reinforcing his masculinity. The objects portrayed in his video are fantasy images that would appeal to many macho men.
Transition: Along with physical appearance and materialism to portray masculinity the
objectification of women is a prominent theme as well.
Kelsie: I. Introduction:
a. Thesis: Because of the ideal hyper masculinity in the hip hop culture rap artists feel as though they have the right to dominate over women. This attitude is evident in their lyrics as well as in their music videos.
Transition: This womanizing attitude is clearly present in our artifact 50 cent’s music video “In Da Club”. His lyrics undoubtedly prove his feelings towards woman on how he treats them, as well as how they should act towards him.
II. Main Point 1:Lyrics discriminate toward women
a. “I'm into having sex, I ain't into making love”
i. This is a direct quote from the lyrics of In Da Club found on lyrics.com and it is referencing to 50 cents attitude towards women and relationships with them.
1. Instead of a real relationship what he wants and is suggesting in his lyrics is that all he is looking for is a sexual relationship.
a. With no strings attached.
b. “Now shawty said she feeling my style, she feeling my flow
Her girlfriend willin to get bi and they ready to go”
i. Another lyric found within the song “In Da Club”
1. Continuing with his commanding attitude 50 cent expects the woman to do anything to please him and give him pleasure.
a. Even if that means degrading herself in the process.
i. Like it is stated in the lyric she should be willing to engage in sexual acts with a woman if she wants to be with 50 cent.
c. “I wink my eye at ya bitch, if she smiles she gone”
i. In this specific lyric 50 cent refers to a women as a derogative term that is typically linked to a negative meaning.
Transition: Obviously 50 cent refers to women in negative ways in his lyrics, but also he makes women appear as objects in his music videos
III. Main Point 2: Degrading toward woman in the rap videos
a. Ladies how many times have you gone out and a guy dropped a raunchy pick up line on you? Such as..
i. I miss my teddy bear will you sleep with me?
ii. Are your pants from outer space because you butt is out of this world
b. These terribly vulgar pick up lines degrade women, where are these guys learning this behavior towards women?
i. Where are these guys learning this type of behavior? Where did they learn that it is ok to treat women in this way?
1. It’s displayed all over the media especially in the music videos that we watch on MTV and BET.
2. Men in these rap videos not only use materialistic possessions to prove their masculinity but also how many beautiful women they have around them. The women in these videos are subjecting themselves to these men.
3. The article Big Primpin’. The world of rap video dancers stated that “The dancer’s job rarely brings a fair pay check: screen time is measured in milliseconds; talent is too often subordinate to sex appeal.”
4. The article then goes on to say that , “At casting sessions the women are openly treated as interchangeable, disposable goods.” The musicians do what they would like with them, treating them as objects. And because of the ideal hyper masculinity these men feel that it is all right to treat women as their property.
c. This exploitation is evident in 50 cent’s music video “In Da Club” .
i. In one of the scenes 50 has a beautiful women beside him while he is rapping the lyrics.
1. This women is just expected to sit there and act as his trophy.
2. Then later on in the music video when the women who is sitting next to him gets up 50 cent makes it obivious that he is staring at her butt. Demonstrating how he feels as though he can treat women as objects, in this case as a piece of meat.
ii. Throughout the video there are scenes of men surrounded by sexily clad women. This gives them a pimp appeal and makes the women again appear as though they are objects that they use to compare with other men in order to gain status and respect. Through this exploitation of women the audiences of the music videos view these men as their heroes. How can a pimp be a hero? In hyper masculinity this trait, being a pimp, is viewed positive and adds to their status as men.
Transition: Violence also contributes to a rappers hyper masculine identity.
Danielle: TRANSITION: So we’ve learned about how women are depicted in rap music, but in the eyes of the rappers, violence is what really makes a man, right?
According to http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1264/is_n10_v26/ai_17764985, LL Cool J believes that, "A hero is a man who goes out there and does what he has to do to provide for his family." When asked about hyper masculinity, he said, "There's a lot of hyper masculinity in rap music… But half of those rappers just need a hug and a father in their lives." LL Cool J shows his dismay for hyper masculinity, meanwhile in his song “Clockin’ G’s” he says,
“Argue on the phone glance at the chrome
Hand on your waist just in case it's on
Fully prepared to go to war 'til the break of dawn” http://www.lyricsondemand.com/l/llcooljlyrics/clockingslyrics.html
So maybe LL Cool J just needs a hug… and 50 Cent?
Because 50 Cent was shot 9 times, you would think his music would promote safety and preach against black-on-black violence. Instead, he releases images of himself wearing bullet proof vests and carrying guns and uses violent lyrics like his in his songs. “Don’t Push Me” on his album “Get Rich or Die Tryin’” said,
“Pistol in hand homie, I'm down to get it poppin'
Once I squeeze the first shot you know I ain't stoppin'
Till my clip is empty, I'm simply
Not that nigga you should try your luck with, or fuck with
Hollow-tip shells struck you with your bones broken, gun smokin', still locin'
what nigga, lay your ass down paramedics get you up feeling”
http://lyrics.astraweb.com/display/173/50_cent..get_rich_or_die_tryin..dont_push_me.htm
In 50 Cent’s song “gotta make it to heaven,” he recites the Serenity Prayer. Two lines later in the song, he discusses killing people. Not only is this extremely hypocritical, but it shows that 50’s attitude is that you are still good enough to go to heaven even if you kill people. 50 believes that violence is no big deal and real men can kill people and not feel guilty about it.
This song also, however; discusses loyalty and shows that men must be loyal to their friends. He tells his audience that he chooses his friends wisely and you must be able to trust your friends. 50 is teaching some good morals in his songs, but why does he always feel it necessary to mention violence? Because that’s what real men do. Violence is a lifestyle. http://lyrics.astraweb.com/display/295/50_cent..get_rich_or_die_tryin..gotta_make_it_to_heaven.html
The violence in rap is not subtle, with record labels such as Murder Inc. and Bad Boy it is clear that you must be violent to be a man. Rappers have died because of people acting out what they heard in the lyrics. Some don’t understand that these things are said to make money and should not always be taken so literally. Found on softpedia.com, “50 Cent is currently one of the most well-known and commercially successful rappers of the decade. Because the success of an artist in gangsta rap often depends on street credibility and reputation, Interscope Records has sold 50 Cent as the "real deal".” http://news.softpedia.com/news/Jay-Z-Says-Rap-Music-Overrates-Violence-And-Crime-8880.shtml
In the video that you all just watched, you heard, “When I roll 20 deep it’s 20 knives in da club.” http://lyrics.astraweb.com/display/921/50_cent..get_rich_or_die_tryin..in_da_club.html
This shows that each person that he went to the club with all brought out knives. This is to show that 50 Cent is tougher than you. The images of him with his shirt off is to show you that he’s stronger than you. The images of him with his bling is to show you that he’s richer than you. The images of him with women is to show you that he’s more attractive than you. And the lyrics about drugs and alcohol are to show you that he has more street credibility than you. That’s what rap is and that’s hyper masculinity at its finest.
TRANSITION: Now let’s hear about how drug and alcohol references in rap music can also be prime examples of hyper masculinity.
Lisa:
Drugs and alcohol also contribute to a rappers hyper masculine identity. When 50 cent walks into the club, with his boys who are just as strong and “cool” as he is, along with how they walk into the club as if they own it, how would someone who watches his videos not want to be like him? With songs known by 50 cent such as “high all the time” 50 cent is known for promoting unhealthy behavior. By watching a 50-cent video, hypermascuinity is portrayed that if you consume drugs and alcohol, your masculine, just like him when in reality someone can be masculine without it. In the video “In Da Club.” the second 50 cent walks into the club, beautiful, half naked women are pouring him drinks. Girls are everywhere, while the lyrics in the back rap “we going to sip Bacardi like its yo birthday.” Alcohol isn’t the only way 50 shows his masculinity, with unhealthy behavior, in his song he raps “ Look mami I got the X if you into taken drugs.” This quote is a way where 50 is flaunting what he has to get a girl, this is worse then the material possession he raps about, this time its drugs. If you want to be masculine like fifty and party the way he does, then you can have fun by doing drugs and alcohol. As shown in his videos, his lyrics talking about drugs are edited out, but the images in the videos, which are broadcasted on public television, still get shown. 50 cent flaunts his “healthy” body on the treadmill throughout the music video show that he is a strong masculine guy. He is also doing behavior that is very unhealthy. Hyper masculinity is shown in a very confusing and dysfunctional way, people watching rap artists want to go out and party like fifty, so they can be masculine and cool, but is this really what hyper masculine people need to do?
Tamar:
Transition: Now that we have expressed the demoralizing themes hyper masculine rap music promote, I will emphasize how this form of musical expression directly affects the youth in our community.
The values hyper masculinity promotes, impacts our community and the actions of the future generation in America.
“On average, American youth listen to music from 1.5 to 2.5 hours a day, which does not include the amount of time they are exposed through music videos,” according to a study conducted by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Music becomes increasingly important to children as they grow older. Adolescents learn social interaction and gender roles from the message of the song. Many teens also base their values on the opinions of their favorite music artist. Essentially, the rapper becomes a child’s role model. It is easy to see how children adopt the behavior and values promoted through the music in the hip/hop culture.
Please raise your hand if knew every lyric to “Baby Got Back” in middle school?
A lot of us, right?
I remember in the 5th grade, you were the coolest kid if you could recite every lyric to Eminem’s slim shady video. I remember how all of my guy friends admired these rap stars at the time. They mimicked their behaviors by wearing band aid’s across their forehead like Nelly and bragging about their three to four “girlfriends” at recess. School districts have to establish policies to limit children’s habits that they have learned through music videos. Students in my school district are prohibited from wearing Bandanas. This is because the fashion accessory has been used to identify with gangs which were popularized by the hyper masculine rap culture.
Although it is funny to reflect back upon now, children, as we were, really are influenced by rap’s hyper masculine lyrics and actions in music videos.
This is evidenced by an increase in children’s crime rates, pregnancy rates, and alcohol use. Here are some startling statistics which can be linked to the hyper masculine values in hip/hop culture.
One of every eight persons murdered each year in America is under the age of 18 and one of every 18 victims of violent crime is under the age of 12” from an article from findarticles.com.
The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that nearly 900000 teenagers become pregnant in the United States each year which is 1 of every 5 sexually active teen girls. An estimated 1 in 4 sexually active teens gets a STD every year which is 4 million teen cases of STDs annually.
Underage drinking is a factor in half of all teen automobile crashes, the leading cause of death among teenagers as researched by the American Medical Association.
These statistics illustrate the negative effects hyper masculine music has on America’s youth.
Children want the objects that their perceived “role model,” rap stars, features in music videos.
Hyper masculine music is directed toward younger men aged 15 to 25. However, the age group that primarily appeals to the music is a younger audience of males aged 12 to 20. Children who listen to this genre of music are influenced to steal and rob others to obtain what is mentioned by rappers ranging from guns, drugs, or lavish jewelry. Robbery offending is concentrated in late adolescence with increasing rates starting at age 14 and peaking at age 19. Rates for 17-19-year-olds exceed rates for any other age category according to research conducted by the University of Colorado. For inner-city youth, robbery provides a way of acquiring status. The material gained from robbery contributes to status, the rewards and dominance which provide comfort, self-respect, and confidence.
Although it would be inaccurate to say that the hyper masculine characteristics portrayed in rap music are responsible for all of these negative effects, they do influence children. Hyper masculine values as illustrated through five themes impact the behavior and actions of the next generation.
CONCULSION:
Kelsie:
As you can see hyper masculinity is clearly portrayed in 50 cent’s music video and lyrics of “In Da Club.” It values materialistic possessions and physical appearances, endorses the exploitation of women, encourages violence and drug and alcohol use. These are the messages that are being conveyed in the music that we all have listened to and watched. These videos unconsciously are shaping the minds of the youth as well as distorting values. Relating to our analysis of hyper masculinity a quote from the article Hip-Hop Music Needs to Reflect People's Lives More Realistically “The message that it's OK to smoke, drink and sex your life away is a problem. The message that women are nothing more than pieces of sexual gratification [is a problem!] As catchy as the beats and lyrics are, the messages are distorted and irresponsible. Most people either hate the messages in rap music and the music altogether or love the music and accept the messages. Being in the position where you love the music and reject the messages is hard.” Are these the ideals that we want the next generation to value? Next time, listen to the actual lyrics! AND think twice before you “Party like a Rock star” or a rap star in this case.
Works Cited
Kelsie’s Bibliography:
McKinnon, M. (2006, June 3). Big Primpin’. The world of rap video dancers . Retrieved August 13, 2007, from Black Habits the Voice of the Community Web site: http://www.blackhabits.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=28
Drayton , T. (2002). Hip-Hop Music Needs to Reflect People's Lives More Realistically . Retrieved August 13, 2007, from The Daily Tar Heel Web site: http://media.www.dailytarheel.com/media/storage/paper885/news/2002/09/20/UndefinedSection/HipHop.Music.Needs.To.Reflect.Peoples.Lives.More.Realistically-1349908.shtml
Tamar’s Bibliography:
Fagan, J. (1998). Social Contexts and Adolescent Violence . Retrieved August 13, 2007, from
University of Colorado Web site: http://www.colorado.edu/cspv/publications/factsheets/
schoolviolence/FS-SV03.html
Martino, S. P. (2006, August 1). . In Exposure to Degrading Versus Nondegrading Music Lyrics and
Sexual Behavior Among Youth. Retrieved August 12, 2007, from American Acdemy of Pediatrics Web
site: http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/118/2/e430
Rap music and its violent progeny: America's culture of violence in context. (n.d.). Retrieved
August 13, 2007, from Find Articles Web site: http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3626/
is_200207/ai_n9085450/pg_4
Reducing Underage Drinking Through Coalitions: Youth and Adults United for Change. (2007, January
26). Retrieved August 13, 2007, from American Medical Association Web site:
http://www.ama-assn.org/ama/pub/category/3557.html
Katie’s Bibliography
Hypermasculinity. (2007). In wikipedia [Web]. Wikimedia Foundation Inc.. Retrieved August 14, 2007, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypermasculinity
Danielle’s Bibliography
50 Cent don't push me. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2007, from http://www.lyrics4all.net/0/50-cent/
get-rich-or-die-tryin/dont-push-me.php
50 Cent gotta make it to heaven. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2007, from http://lyrics.astraweb.com/
display/295/50_cent..get_rich_or_die_tryin..gotta_make_it_to_heaven.html
50 Cent in da club. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2007, from http://lyrics.astraweb.com/display/921/
50_cent..get_rich_or_die_tryin..in_da_club.html
Clockin' G's lyrics. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2007, from http://www.lyricsondemand.com/l/
llcooljlyrics/clockingslyrics.html
George, N. (n.d.). LL Cool J's love jones - rapper/actor keeps love as theme of music. Retrieved
August 10, 2007, from http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1264/is_n10_v26/ai_17764985
Stroia, M. (n.d.). Jay-Z says rap music overrates violence and crime . Retrieved August 11, 2007,
from http://news.softpedia.com/news/
Jay-Z-Says-Rap-Music-Overrates-Violence-And-Crime-8880.shtml
Jesse’s Outline:
Hip-Hop, Beyond Beats and Rhymes. Retrieved August 10th 2007 from <http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/hiphop/gender.htm>
2. 3-D Review: In Da Club by 50 Cent. Retrieved August 10th 2007 from http://www.cpyu.org/Page.aspx?id=76859
3. 50 Cent. Retrieved August 10th 2007 from <http://www.vh1.com/artists/az/50_cent/bio.jhtml>
|
Working together using this wiki
Think of this wiki as a shared online whiteboard. Your entire group can share information using this wiki, making your research accessible to everyone. Play around with this wiki: Notice how you can add comments to a page, see what people have changed, and edit all the text.
Group members
- Jesse (AIM: jwide02)
- Tamar (AIM: qtpie4654)
- Danielle
- Lisa
- Katie (AIM: ktcaz123)
- Kelsie (AIM: xourmyfantasy4ox)
Sources
- Source 1
- Source 2
- Source 3
- Source 4
| Source Name |
Page # |
Quote |
| Encyclopedia of Stars |
44, 46 |
"The stars are the heavens" |
Meetings
| Who |
When I can meet |
| Jesse |
M-F, 8am-5pm |
| Chris |
Anytime after 2pm |
| Dana |
Saturday, 5pm |
| Pat |
Sunday, 4pm-8pm |
Outline:
INTRODUCTION
Tamar
“We’re gonna party like it’s your birthday”
What might that involve?
Hundreds of women parading and booty shaking around you in skimpy clothing,
Sipping on the finest booze from Bacardi to wine,
Popping a few pills of ecstasy,
Cruising through an exotic desert in a fresh Hummer,
Surviving 9 bullet shots,
AND Buying as much bling as you could afford (even though the amount of money you spent COULD have been used to supply water to an entire village in Africa)
Well this is the definition of 50 Cent’s Birthday Party blow-out in his music video, “In Da Club.”
We selected 50 cent’s video because the lyrics and music video conveyed all of the major hyper masculine qualities in the hip/hop culture.
Due to the rough nature of Hip/Hop music, we want to warn you that 50 Cent’s video and our quotes from his songs and other artists will use vulgar language.
Brace yourself for it!
Now, Let’s take a look at 50 Cent’s Video “In Da Club,” from his album, “Get Rich or Die Trying,” from youtube.
PLAY VIDEO (4 mins.)
We have thoroughly analyzed hyper masculinity in 50 Cent’s video to explore the influence it has in the American culture.
We are all exposed to hyper masculinity through the music we party to, dance to, and sing along with. Many of us have mentioned that we like rap music in Professor Nichol’s class because “we like the beat.” However, what do the song lyrics really mean and what values and behaviors is it encouraging?
It promotes the exploitation of women, excessive drug and alcohol use, materialism, violence, and a macho appearance as an acceptable lifestyle in our community.
As you have seen, 50 Cent’s video features all of these hyper masculine qualities.
The themes of drug and alcohol, materialism, violence, exploitation of women, and macho physical appearance define hyper masculinity in the hip/hop culture.
Next, Katie will define and explain hyper masculinity and the way men and women are stereotyped in 50 cent’s video.
(end of intro.)
Katie: The rap culture promotes hyper masculinity as a typical lifestyle behavior of men. Wikipedia defines hyper-masculinity as “a psychological term for the exaggeration of male stereotypical behaviors. This has been viewed by many as a way for males to reclaim their masculinity, and by doing it in aggressive ways. Hip-hop videos showcase rapper’s extravagant bling-bling, booty shaking girls to emphasize physical strength, drinking, womanizing and wealth as characteristics that make up what a “real” man is. 50 cent’s video “In Da Club” is a prime example of hyper-masculinity. As a group we analyzed the stereotypes portrayed, language that was rapped about and the hyper-masculinity that fifty embodies in the “In Da Club” video.
By showing 50 cent with his shirt off, pumping iron and running on the treadmill supports the stereotype of men being physically fit and macho men. Nearly half of the video takes place in a work-out room. As part of 50 cents image the public is well aware the he has been shot 9 times and has still been able to survive. In Da Club video addresses these bullet wounds from his past to remind us of how tough he really is. The hip-hop culture is also viewed in the video by showing men as being violent. A scene in the video features 50 cent along with two other men with guns shooting at targets. 50 cent is also hooked up to a lie detector test, to portray his involvement in crime. These two visual examples evidence how crime and violence are incorporated in the video. This justifies his extreme masculinity. 50 Cent’s masculinity also involves being surrounded by gorgeous, minimally clothed women. Women function in 50 Cent’s video as sex symbols and possessions.
Transition: Hyper-masculinity is portrayed in all of these stereotypical ways to make fifty seem macho, and it all started from the very beginning of fifty’s fame.
JESSE:
The transition from hard times to becoming famous and making your own wealth is glorified, not just in the hip-hop industry but in all aspects of entertainment. Hip-hop is where it is focused on the most however. You’re a real man if you came from the streets, if you dealt with crime, violence and hustling. If you didn’t experience any of that, you don’t have credit, you don’t have respect, you’re less of a man.
Curtis 50 Cent Jackson was born in Queens, New York. He had a rough childhood, as his mother passed away when he was 8 due to a drug-related incident and his father left soon after, leaving 50 to be raised by his grandparents. He then started dealing drugs in the street. He was arrested multiple times and spent time in prison. It was then that he turned to rap and get his life back on the right track. He was discovered by Jam Master Jay in 1996 and the rest is history. Now he lives the life: the cars, the clothes, the women, the “bling.” This background is one that is portrayed as necessary to be a success in the hip-hop industry. The rough childhood, the death of loved ones, and growing up in the s treets are all key characteristics to a rappers resume. Now, what else makes you a man?
We analyzed 50 Cent’s music video, “In Da Club,” by identifying the five themes of hyper masculinity. Now we’ll explain the themes of hyper masculinity
“In hip-hop, images of thugged out, hypermasculine men of color, posing shirtless, greased up, muscular—decorate magazine and album covers.” This quote from a pbs article on hyper-masculinity in the hip-hop industry pretty much sums it up. This is what men are supposed to look like. Unreasonably muscular, ghetto, badass, ‘thugged” out. In reality however, these standards are unrealistic and provide hip-hop consumers with false norms and ideas. When these consumers watch rap videos and see these hyper-masculine tanks surrounded by beautiful women, it creates the idea that either you look like this, or you’re not a man. 50 Cent’s music video In Da Club is a perfect example. http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/hiphop/gender.htm
In the opening scenes of this video we see Curtis Jackson, aka 50 Cent working out at a “rap artist development center.” He’s shirtless, wearing only a headband and workout pants. Needless to say he’s in incredible shape: abs, biceps, triceps, pecs, everything. Tattoos on his arms and stomach are visible for all to see. While the song is playing, we see him doing various workouts such as the treadmill, machine weights, and sit-ups while hanging from the ceiling. The song has nothing to do with working out, nothing to do with being in shape, nothing to do with being healthy. In fact it focuses on going out and having a good time “in da club” something most would not associate with the gym. Throughout the video the gym workout scenes keep appearing, again with no apparent connection to the theme of the song. Also in the scenes we see other characters, the scientists, or the people observing 50 Cent. In comparison to his muscular figure, these scientists are white, older, less fit men wearing white lab coats and carrying clipboards. They are most definitely given a much less flattering role than the star of the video.
50 Cent then appears in other scenes taking place in the club and in the recording studio. Once again he’s looking sharp, dressed up in all the latest fashion, his fitted cap and do rag, and of course, his chain. This is a style that is unrealistic for most people to afford, but again, this is portrayed as the standard for masculinity. I urge you, take a walk around campus or downtown and see how many men you see dressed like this, or in this kind of shape physically. It won’t be many. So why, may I ask, is this appearance made to seem normal and manly?
So what does this all mean? It means you need to be huge to be cool and to be considered a man. You need to be in the best shape of your life, basically physically perfect. You’re weak if you don’t fit this description. These ideas are damaging to normal humans. According the cpyu 3-D review of the video, “The lyrics and video to this party/dance anthem chronicle the creation of an indestructible rapper - a sort of "hip-hop Frankenstein". 50 Cent calls it "the supa-nigga video."” These standards and these images are not realistic for people to pursue. Even the artist himself speaks of the unrealistic image his character is given in the video.
http://www.cpyu.org/Page.aspx?id=76859
You are born a man. You don’t become one by working out, getting in shape, or wearing expensive clothes. This rap video, and the hip-hop industry in general sends the opposite message. It sends the message that you can, and should work your way to becoming a man. While working out to become healthy and making yourself look good with nice clothing is not by any means a bad thing, it should not be the norm. It should not be a necessity to achieve manhood. It should not define a person, and neither should material possessions or how much you have to your name, which leads us to our next theme of hyper-masculinity: materialism.
Katie:
Artists rap about fancy cars, expensive jewelry, and materialistic possessions to see who comes out on top. Their videos display these fancy objects to add to the glamour to their life. After watching the video, we see that “In Da Club” starts out showing a Hummer with rims. This is a real macho car, as well as an expensive one. Later in the song he goes on to rap about fancy vehicles saying “when I pull out up front you see the benz on dub’s.” As you can see, a cars purpose in the hip-hop culture isn’t just to get from point A to point B, they are used as status symbols. The video is also filled with plasma screen televisions, fancy gym equipment, and fifty being decked out in his bling. The extravagant jewelry symbolizes 50 Cent’s identity to his wealth. Many other rappers showcase their bling in their music videos and on their CD albums. They flash it at the camera for extended periods of time to show off their success to the whole rap community. Rappers are to busy flaunting their wealth, that they are unaware of the long-term effects of their excessive spending. I’m sure many of you are familiar with the ever so famous MC Hammer. He is just one of the many hip-hop artists who had to file for bankruptcy. In the early 90’s he earned more than 33 million dollars, but he spent it all on keeping up with his lavish lifestyle. Many would think that money is not a problem with successful artists. However, in order to maintain their rich image they feel the need to keep up with the expensive trends and buy possessions to show-off. Especially since many hip-hop artist background, like jesse mentioned about fifty, is them coming from nothing and not having a lot of money. Once they earn millions and millions of dollars they want to show it off by the possessions they buy. Fifty goes on to rap about money saying “if u talking about money homie, I ain’t concern” re-establishing his ego that he is a wealthy man with a disposable income. The quote that best sums up the theme of material possessions adding to hyper masculinity is when he says Mah flow, Mah show, brought me the dough, that bought me all my fancy things, Mah Crib, mah cars, Mah pools, Mah jewels..” the repition of “my” signifies how independent he is, reinforcing his masculinity. The objects portrayed in his video are fantasy images that would appeal to many macho men.
Transition: Along with physical appearance and materialism to portray masculinity the
objectification of women is a prominent theme as well.
Kelsie: I. Introduction:
a. Thesis: Because of the ideal hyper masculinity in the hip hop culture rap artists feel as though they have the right to dominate over women. This attitude is evident in their lyrics as well as in their music videos.
Transition: This womanizing attitude is clearly present in our artifact 50 cent’s music video “In Da Club”. His lyrics undoubtedly prove his feelings towards woman on how he treats them, as well as how they should act towards him.
II. Main Point 1:Lyrics discriminate toward women
a. “I'm into having sex, I ain't into making love”
i. This is a direct quote from the lyrics of In Da Club found on lyrics.com and it is referencing to 50 cents attitude towards women and relationships with them.
1. Instead of a real relationship what he wants and is suggesting in his lyrics is that all he is looking for is a sexual relationship.
a. With no strings attached.
b. “Now shawty said she feeling my style, she feeling my flow
Her girlfriend willin to get bi and they ready to go”
i. Another lyric found within the song “In Da Club”
1. Continuing with his commanding attitude 50 cent expects the woman to do anything to please him and give him pleasure.
a. Even if that means degrading herself in the process.
i. Like it is stated in the lyric she should be willing to engage in sexual acts with a woman if she wants to be with 50 cent.
c. “I wink my eye at ya bitch, if she smiles she gone”
i. In this specific lyric 50 cent refers to a women as a derogative term that is typically linked to a negative meaning.
Transition: Obviously 50 cent refers to women in negative ways in his lyrics, but also he makes women appear as objects in his music videos
III. Main Point 2: Degrading toward woman in the rap videos
a. Ladies how many times have you gone out and a guy dropped a raunchy pick up line on you? Such as..
i. I miss my teddy bear will you sleep with me?
ii. Are your pants from outer space because you butt is out of this world
b. These terribly vulgar pick up lines degrade women, where are these guys learning this behavior towards women?
i. Where are these guys learning this type of behavior? Where did they learn that it is ok to treat women in this way?
1. It’s displayed all over the media especially in the music videos that we watch on MTV and BET.
2. Men in these rap videos not only use materialistic possessions to prove their masculinity but also how many beautiful women they have around them. The women in these videos are subjecting themselves to these men.
3. The article Big Primpin’. The world of rap video dancers stated that “The dancer’s job rarely brings a fair pay check: screen time is measured in milliseconds; talent is too often subordinate to sex appeal.”
4. The article then goes on to say that , “At casting sessions the women are openly treated as interchangeable, disposable goods.” The musicians do what they would like with them, treating them as objects. And because of the ideal hyper masculinity these men feel that it is all right to treat women as their property.
c. This exploitation is evident in 50 cent’s music video “In Da Club” .
i. In one of the scenes 50 has a beautiful women beside him while he is rapping the lyrics.
1. This women is just expected to sit there and act as his trophy.
2. Then later on in the music video when the women who is sitting next to him gets up 50 cent makes it obivious that he is staring at her butt. Demonstrating how he feels as though he can treat women as objects, in this case as a piece of meat.
ii. Throughout the video there are scenes of men surrounded by sexily clad women. This gives them a pimp appeal and makes the women again appear as though they are objects that they use to compare with other men in order to gain status and respect. Through this exploitation of women the audiences of the music videos view these men as their heroes. How can a pimp be a hero? In hyper masculinity this trait, being a pimp, is viewed positive and adds to their status as men.
Transition: Violence also contributes to a rappers hyper masculine identity.
Danielle: TRANSITION: So we’ve learned about how women are depicted in rap music, but in the eyes of the rappers, violence is what really makes a man, right?
According to http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1264/is_n10_v26/ai_17764985, LL Cool J believes that, "A hero is a man who goes out there and does what he has to do to provide for his family." When asked about hyper masculinity, he said, "There's a lot of hyper masculinity in rap music… But half of those rappers just need a hug and a father in their lives." LL Cool J shows his dismay for hyper masculinity, meanwhile in his song “Clockin’ G’s” he says,
“Argue on the phone glance at the chrome
Hand on your waist just in case it's on
Fully prepared to go to war 'til the break of dawn” http://www.lyricsondemand.com/l/llcooljlyrics/clockingslyrics.html
So maybe LL Cool J just needs a hug… and 50 Cent?
Because 50 Cent was shot 9 times, you would think his music would promote safety and preach against black-on-black violence. Instead, he releases images of himself wearing bullet proof vests and carrying guns and uses violent lyrics like his in his songs. “Don’t Push Me” on his album “Get Rich or Die Tryin’” said,
“Pistol in hand homie, I'm down to get it poppin'
Once I squeeze the first shot you know I ain't stoppin'
Till my clip is empty, I'm simply
Not that nigga you should try your luck with, or fuck with
Hollow-tip shells struck you with your bones broken, gun smokin', still locin'
what nigga, lay your ass down paramedics get you up feeling”
http://lyrics.astraweb.com/display/173/50_cent..get_rich_or_die_tryin..dont_push_me.htm
In 50 Cent’s song “gotta make it to heaven,” he recites the Serenity Prayer. Two lines later in the song, he discusses killing people. Not only is this extremely hypocritical, but it shows that 50’s attitude is that you are still good enough to go to heaven even if you kill people. 50 believes that violence is no big deal and real men can kill people and not feel guilty about it.
This song also, however; discusses loyalty and shows that men must be loyal to their friends. He tells his audience that he chooses his friends wisely and you must be able to trust your friends. 50 is teaching some good morals in his songs, but why does he always feel it necessary to mention violence? Because that’s what real men do. Violence is a lifestyle. http://lyrics.astraweb.com/display/295/50_cent..get_rich_or_die_tryin..gotta_make_it_to_heaven.html
The violence in rap is not subtle, with record labels such as Murder Inc. and Bad Boy it is clear that you must be violent to be a man. Rappers have died because of people acting out what they heard in the lyrics. Some don’t understand that these things are said to make money and should not always be taken so literally. Found on softpedia.com, “50 Cent is currently one of the most well-known and commercially successful rappers of the decade. Because the success of an artist in gangsta rap often depends on street credibility and reputation, Interscope Records has sold 50 Cent as the "real deal".” http://news.softpedia.com/news/Jay-Z-Says-Rap-Music-Overrates-Violence-And-Crime-8880.shtml
In the video that you all just watched, you heard, “When I roll 20 deep it’s 20 knives in da club.” http://lyrics.astraweb.com/display/921/50_cent..get_rich_or_die_tryin..in_da_club.html
This shows that each person that he went to the club with all brought out knives. This is to show that 50 Cent is tougher than you. The images of him with his shirt off is to show you that he’s stronger than you. The images of him with his bling is to show you that he’s richer than you. The images of him with women is to show you that he’s more attractive than you. And the lyrics about drugs and alcohol are to show you that he has more street credibility than you. That’s what rap is and that’s hyper masculinity at its finest.
TRANSITION: Now let’s hear about how drug and alcohol references in rap music can also be prime examples of hyper masculinity.
Lisa:
Drugs and alcohol also contribute to a rappers hyper masculine identity. When 50 cent walks into the club, with his boys who are just as strong and “cool” as he is, along with how they walk into the club as if they own it, how would someone who watches his videos not want to be like him? With songs known by 50 cent such as “high all the time” 50 cent is known for promoting unhealthy behavior. By watching a 50-cent video, hypermascuinity is portrayed that if you consume drugs and alcohol, your masculine, just like him when in reality someone can be masculine without it. In the video “In Da Club.” the second 50 cent walks into the club, beautiful, half naked women are pouring him drinks. Girls are everywhere, while the lyrics in the back rap “we going to sip Bacardi like its yo birthday.” Alcohol isn’t the only way 50 shows his masculinity, with unhealthy behavior, in his song he raps “ Look mami I got the X if you into taken drugs.” This quote is a way where 50 is flaunting what he has to get a girl, this is worse then the material possession he raps about, this time its drugs. If you want to be masculine like fifty and party the way he does, then you can have fun by doing drugs and alcohol. As shown in his videos, his lyrics talking about drugs are edited out, but the images in the videos, which are broadcasted on public television, still get shown. 50 cent flaunts his “healthy” body on the treadmill throughout the music video show that he is a strong masculine guy. He is also doing behavior that is very unhealthy. Hyper masculinity is shown in a very confusing and dysfunctional way, people watching rap artists want to go out and party like fifty, so they can be masculine and cool, but is this really what hyper masculine people need to do?
Tamar:
Transition: Now that we have expressed the demoralizing themes hyper masculine rap music promote, I will emphasize how this form of musical expression directly affects the youth in our community.
The values hyper masculinity promotes, impacts our community and the actions of the future generation in America.
“On average, American youth listen to music from 1.5 to 2.5 hours a day, which does not include the amount of time they are exposed through music videos,” according to a study conducted by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Music becomes increasingly important to children as they grow older. Adolescents learn social interaction and gender roles from the message of the song. Many teens also base their values on the opinions of their favorite music artist. Essentially, the rapper becomes a child’s role model. It is easy to see how children adopt the behavior and values promoted through the music in the hip/hop culture.
Please raise your hand if knew every lyric to “Baby Got Back” in middle school?
A lot of us, right?
I remember in the 5th grade, you were the coolest kid if you could recite every lyric to Eminem’s slim shady video. I remember how all of my guy friends admired these rap stars at the time. They mimicked their behaviors by wearing band aid’s across their forehead like Nelly and bragging about their three to four “girlfriends” at recess. School districts have to establish policies to limit children’s habits that they have learned through music videos. Students in my school district are prohibited from wearing Bandanas. This is because the fashion accessory has been used to identify with gangs which were popularized by the hyper masculine rap culture.
Although it is funny to reflect back upon now, children, as we were, really are influenced by rap’s hyper masculine lyrics and actions in music videos.
This is evidenced by an increase in children’s crime rates, pregnancy rates, and alcohol use. Here are some startling statistics which can be linked to the hyper masculine values in hip/hop culture.
One of every eight persons murdered each year in America is under the age of 18 and one of every 18 victims of violent crime is under the age of 12” from an article from findarticles.com.
The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that nearly 900000 teenagers become pregnant in the United States each year which is 1 of every 5 sexually active teen girls. An estimated 1 in 4 sexually active teens gets a STD every year which is 4 million teen cases of STDs annually.
Underage drinking is a factor in half of all teen automobile crashes, the leading cause of death among teenagers as researched by the American Medical Association.
These statistics illustrate the negative effects hyper masculine music has on America’s youth.
Children want the objects that their perceived “role model,” rap stars, features in music videos.
Hyper masculine music is directed toward younger men aged 15 to 25. However, the age group that primarily appeals to the music is a younger audience of males aged 12 to 20. Children who listen to this genre of music are influenced to steal and rob others to obtain what is mentioned by rappers ranging from guns, drugs, or lavish jewelry. Robbery offending is concentrated in late adolescence with increasing rates starting at age 14 and peaking at age 19. Rates for 17-19-year-olds exceed rates for any other age category according to research conducted by the University of Colorado. For inner-city youth, robbery provides a way of acquiring status. The material gained from robbery contributes to status, the rewards and dominance which provide comfort, self-respect, and confidence.
Although it would be inaccurate to say that the hyper masculine characteristics portrayed in rap music are responsible for all of these negative effects, they do influence children. Hyper masculine values as illustrated through five themes impact the behavior and actions of the next generation.
CONCULSION:
Kelsie:
As you can see hyper masculinity is clearly portrayed in 50 cent’s music video and lyrics of “In Da Club.” It values materialistic possessions and physical appearances, endorses the exploitation of women, encourages violence and drug and alcohol use. These are the messages that are being conveyed in the music that we all have listened to and watched. These videos unconsciously are shaping the minds of the youth as well as distorting values. Relating to our analysis of hyper masculinity a quote from the article Hip-Hop Music Needs to Reflect People's Lives More Realistically “The message that it's OK to smoke, drink and sex your life away is a problem. The message that women are nothing more than pieces of sexual gratification [is a problem!] As catchy as the beats and lyrics are, the messages are distorted and irresponsible. Most people either hate the messages in rap music and the music altogether or love the music and accept the messages. Being in the position where you love the music and reject the messages is hard.” Are these the ideals that we want the next generation to value? Next time, listen to the actual lyrics! AND think twice before you “Party like a Rock star” or a rap star in this case.
Works Cited
Kelsie’s Bibliography:
McKinnon, M. (2006, June 3). Big Primpin’. The world of rap video dancers . Retrieved August 13, 2007, from Black Habits the Voice of the Community Web site: http://www.blackhabits.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=28
Drayton , T. (2002). Hip-Hop Music Needs to Reflect People's Lives More Realistically . Retrieved August 13, 2007, from The Daily Tar Heel Web site: http://media.www.dailytarheel.com/media/storage/paper885/news/2002/09/20/UndefinedSection/HipHop.Music.Needs.To.Reflect.Peoples.Lives.More.Realistically-1349908.shtml
Tamar’s Bibliography:
Fagan, J. (1998). Social Contexts and Adolescent Violence . Retrieved August 13, 2007, from
University of Colorado Web site: http://www.colorado.edu/cspv/publications/factsheets/
schoolviolence/FS-SV03.html
Martino, S. P. (2006, August 1). . In Exposure to Degrading Versus Nondegrading Music Lyrics and
Sexual Behavior Among Youth. Retrieved August 12, 2007, from American Acdemy of Pediatrics Web
site: http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/118/2/e430
Rap music and its violent progeny: America's culture of violence in context. (n.d.). Retrieved
August 13, 2007, from Find Articles Web site: http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3626/
is_200207/ai_n9085450/pg_4
Reducing Underage Drinking Through Coalitions: Youth and Adults United for Change. (2007, January
26). Retrieved August 13, 2007, from American Medical Association Web site:
http://www.ama-assn.org/ama/pub/category/3557.html
Katie’s Bibliography
Hypermasculinity. (2007). In wikipedia [Web]. Wikimedia Foundation Inc.. Retrieved August 14, 2007, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypermasculinity
Danielle’s Bibliography
50 Cent don't push me. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2007, from http://www.lyrics4all.net/0/50-cent/
get-rich-or-die-tryin/dont-push-me.php
50 Cent gotta make it to heaven. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2007, from http://lyrics.astraweb.com/
display/295/50_cent..get_rich_or_die_tryin..gotta_make_it_to_heaven.html
50 Cent in da club. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2007, from http://lyrics.astraweb.com/display/921/
50_cent..get_rich_or_die_tryin..in_da_club.html
Clockin' G's lyrics. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2007, from http://www.lyricsondemand.com/l/
llcooljlyrics/clockingslyrics.html
George, N. (n.d.). LL Cool J's love jones - rapper/actor keeps love as theme of music. Retrieved
August 10, 2007, from http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1264/is_n10_v26/ai_17764985
Stroia, M. (n.d.). Jay-Z says rap music overrates violence and crime . Retrieved August 11, 2007,
from http://news.softpedia.com/news/
Jay-Z-Says-Rap-Music-Overrates-Violence-And-Crime-8880.shtml
Jesse’s Outline:
- Hip-Hop, Beyond Beats and Rhymes. Retrieved August 10th 2007 from <http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/hiphop/gender.htm>
2. 3-D Review: In Da Club by 50 Cent. Retrieved August 10th 2007 from http://www.cpyu.org/Page.aspx?id=76859
3. 50 Cent. Retrieved August 10th 2007 from <http://www.vh1.com/artists/az/50_cent/bio.jhtml>
Draft 1
Draft 2
Graphic created on www.cooltext.com
Picture taken from http://www.islandevents.com/entertainment/uploads/danity_kane_lg.jpg
Comments (0)
You don't have permission to comment on this page.