Ep 3. The New Guard

In Hip-Hop Evolution season 1 episode 3, titled The New Guard, viewers are taken on a journey through the rise of some of hip-hop's most influential and innovative producers and artists of the late 80s and early 90s.

The episode begins by exploring the impact of Public Enemy, a group that used their music to address social and political issues facing the black community. Their outspokenness and militant style inspired a generation of artists who saw hip-hop as a vehicle for change, including Ice Cube, who would go on to leave NWA to pursue his own solo career.

Ice Cube's album "AmeriKKKa's Most Wanted" is highlighted as a game changer in hip-hop, blending political commentary with a hardcore sound. The episode also delves into the impact of newcomers like MC Hammer, who developed a new style of dance-oriented rap that would eventually become known as "pop-rap."

The episode then shifts focus to the rise of Wu-Tang Clan, a group of nine MCs from Staten Island who would take the hip-hop world by storm with their unique sound and style. The group's leader, RZA, is recognized for his pioneering production techniques that blended soul and funk samples with gritty, East Coast rap.

Viewers are then introduced to Gang Starr, another influential group of the era. The episode examines the partnership between MC Guru and producer DJ Premier, who would develop a sound that was both jazzy and streetwise.

The episode also takes a closer look at the impact of female artists during this time, including Queen Latifah and Salt-N-Pepa, who broke barriers in the male-dominated world of hip-hop. Their music addressed issues like female empowerment and sexuality in a way that resonated with women across the country.

Finally, the episode concludes with a look at how hip-hop was evolving and moving in new directions, with artists like A Tribe Called Quest and De La Soul challenging the conventions of what was considered "real" hip-hop. These groups emphasized the importance of positivity and self-expression, paving the way for a new era of hip-hop that would bring in even more diverse voices and styles.

Overall, Hip-Hop Evolution season 1 episode 3 provides a fascinating glimpse into a pivotal moment in the evolution of hip-hop music and culture. From the political and social commentary of Public Enemy to the rise of Wu-Tang Clan and the female MCs who broke barriers, the episode explores the many ways in which hip-hop was changing and growing in the early 90s. For anyone who loves hip-hop or is interested in the history of this important cultural movement, The New Guard is a must-watch episode.