jan 31, 1988 - "It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back"
By Public Enemy
Description:
Subgenre: Hip Hop/ Rap Rock
Major musicians and composers: Chuck D, Flavor Flav, Terminator X
Specialties/Characteristics: Life-oriented songs, raunchy lyrics, sample genres.
The album, adapted by Public Enemy's "It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back" due to hip-hop's incredible sampling techniques and politically charged lyrics, does a brilliant job in that genre when it comes to political action, racial inequality and social issues. The record, under the guidance of the Bomb crew, featured an incredible layered sample collection that included elements of jazz, rock, funk and soul. This approach revolutionized hip-hop production and influenced artists for years to come. One of the album's best songs, "Fight the Power," became an anthem for the civil rights movement and was featured prominently in the Spike Lee film "Do the Right Thing." Its impact on political and social activism continues today, underscoring the power of music to bring about change.
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