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Q-Tip "You cannot escape that beat" - Q-Tip On The Efficacy Of Hip-Hop In Modern Times
Q-Tip "You cannot escape that beat" - Q-Tip On The Efficacy Of Hip-Hop In Modern Times

"You cannot escape that beat" - Q-Tip On The Efficacy Of Hip-Hop In Modern Times

"You cannot escape that beat" - Q-Tip On The Efficacy Of Hip-Hop In Modern Times

As the Kennedy Center's first-ever Artistic Director of Hip-Hop Culture, Q-Tip has quite the undertaking ahead of him. Never mind the fact that he'll have to explain the importance of the most influential artistic movement and culture of the 20th and 21st centuries to a bunch of old white people; he'll also have to build a comprehensive program that accomplishes this and hoists the culture up onto its rightful pedestal by shining a light onto each of its pillars.

Currently, we have at least some indication that precisely this sort of initiative is underway and the dedicated program is shaping up quite well with teach-ins, live remix performances and workshops already scheduled for the 2016-2017 season. But we've yet to hear from the man himself on his newly-appointed role. And so, Q-Tip delivered via video message a dedicated mission statement that speaks to the efficacy of hip-hop in modern times, the countless innovations and cultural impact of our cherished tradition, as well as its role in mending racial disparagement. You can watch the full clip below, just be sure to stay tuned for updates from the man and his Kennedy Center dealings.