Los Angeles is set to witness a one-of-a-kind fusion of hip-hop and visual art as the iconic world of Jean-Michel Basquiat intersects with the dynamic energy of hip-hop culture. The much-anticipated collaboration, known as “Hip-Hop 50,” is an exciting endeavor that aims to celebrate the legacy of both Basquiat and the hip-hop movement.
On September 7, the Grand LA in downtown Los Angeles will host a collaboration that merges hip-hop and art, uniting notable names from the hip-hop industry to honor the trailblazing artist.
For those unaware, Basquiat’s art bore a deep imprint of music, particularly the rhythms of jazz, bebop, and hip-hop, genres that struck a chord with him and frequently became subjects of his creations. His artistic style often dismantled and reconstructed subjects, echoing the rhythmic flow of hip-hop. Moreover, his bold manipulation of language, which defied conventional norms, formed a striking parallel between hip-hop’s ethos and Jean-Michel’s unique artistic expression.
In 1983, Jean-Michel collaborated on “Beat-Bop” alongside K Rob and Rammellzee, handling production, arrangement, and even album cover design. The track was notably featured in the film Wild Style and later recognized by Rolling Stone as one of the 100 Greatest Hip Hop Songs of all time.
Hip-hop artists gravitate towards referencing Basquiat in their songs for his rebellious energy, socio-political insight, and innovative spirit, aligning perfectly with the genre’s essence of creative expression and pushing boundaries.
Here are several Basquiat references found in hip-hop songs.
Kanye West āThatās My Bitch “
“She say I care more about them basquions/ Basquiats, she learning a new word, itās yacht.”
Jay Z āIllest Motherfucker Aliveā
“When I say it then you see, it aināt only in the music/ Basquiats, Warhols serving as my muses.“
J. Cole āRich Niggazā
”Itās like Sony signed Basquiat/ He gave it all he got/ And now the nigga donāt paint the same, damn.“
Danny Brown āDie Like A Rock Starā
“Basquiat freestyle, feeling like Jimi Hendrix and Anna-Nicole mouth.“
Rick Ross on LIl Wayneās āJohnā
“Red on the wall, Basquiat when I paint.“
The “Hip-Hop 50” collaboration between Jean-Michel Basquiat’s art and the hip-hop community is an exciting testament to the ability of creativity to transcend boundaries and ignite conversations that resonate across generations. The event is set to be a vibrant celebration of artistic diversity, cultural heritage, and the power of collaboration.
The event offers an immersive experience, starting with a walk through the art exhibit during the first half, followed by a panel discussion and an after party featuring guest DJ Just Blaze. Secure your tickets for the event here.