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Soundcheck
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Three Dirty Words
Hip hop mogul Russell Simmons says the music industry should voluntarily censor epithets that, like it or not, are closely associated with rap lyrics. We talk with hip hop journalist and author Jeff Chang about the idea. Later, our panel debates graffiti art: it defines hip hop but infuriates city officials. Plus, choral ensemble Chanticleer performs in our studio.
Hip Hop's War Over Words
Hip hop's enduring "outsider" appeal is built on provocative and even offensive language. It's the same outrageous talk that led to the rise and fall of radio host Don Imus. In the wake of Imus' dismissal, figures inside and outside hip hop are leading a push to curb offensive words in recordings. We ask Jeff Chang, author of the hip hop biography "Can't Stop Won't Stop," if hip hop's image needs scrubbing.
Kelefeh Sanneh's New York Times column, "Don't Blame Hip Hop"
Jeff Chang's book, "Can't Stop Won't Stop"
Russell Simmon's Hip Hop Action Network
Graffiti: Art or Nuisance?
Soundcheck hosts a debate on graffiti art, its importance to hip hop culture and its role in urban blight. On our panel: graffiti artist Sandra Fabara (a.k.a. Lady Pink); Jon Reiss, director of the street-art documentary "Bomb It!"; and Peter F. Vallone Jr., the New York City Council member from Queens who proposed legislation doubling fines for graffiti.
"Bomb It!" documentary site
Lady Pink bio
Peter F. Vallone Jr bio
Chanticleer
Multiple Grammy Award-winning group Chanticleer joins us in the anticipation of the world-premiere performance of a newly commissioned mass featuring contributions by five contemporary composers.
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