9781422274378

Rapper Cardi B performs at the MTV Video Music Awards ceremony. One of the most popular hip-hop artists today, her music is influenced by her Caribbean roots.

WORDS TO UNDERSTAND

break —a time during a song when percussion instruments like drums are the only instruments that are playing. emcee —the host of an event, or “master of ceremonies.” In early hip-hop, the emcee (or MC) was the person who would keep the party crowd moving and entertain the audience with his or her raps. graffiti —spray-painted artwork that is usually created in public spaces. spontaneous —performed on an impulse, without planning ahead. tagging —a symbol or series of symbols that represents a particular graffiti artist.

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