Thank you everyone who has visited the [R]Evolution of Hip Hop exhibit.
We are now closed, but please be sure to visit our shop for museum merchandise.
The [R]Evolution Exhibition
The [R]Evolution of Hip Hop is an immersive journey through Hip Hop History is conceived by creative agents from multiple artistic backgrounds that employ archives and experimental storytelling techniques focusing on the five elements of Hip Hop: MCing, DJing, Breakdancing, Aerosol Art, Knowledge.
The Golden Era: 1986 - 1990
The artistic and technological advancements made during the years of 1986 and 1990 were remarkable. The lyrical skills of Rakim, Kool G. Rap, Big Daddy Kane, and others would transform the definition of an MC. The production mastery of chopping up beats and sampling sounds by the likes of Marley Marl, Prince Paul, and the Bomb Squad would redefine the sound of Hip Hop forever.
This time also marked the reign of Run DMC, Whodini, the Beastie Boys, and other acts represented by Rush Artist Management which established rap as a commodity and its acts as marketable stars that could sell products like the Adidas they wore on their feet. Rush was the closest thing to Hip Hop’s own Motown and the national tours they organized helped take Hip Hop to new heights of popularity.
From the city streets and the clubs of New York to the suburban neighborhoods of Compton, California, Hip Hop expanded by leaps and bounds as regional sounds and styles established themselves. The phenomenon of “Yo! MTV Raps” would further intensify this expansion on a worldwide basis between 1988 and 1990.
So put on your shell-toe Adidas Superstars and take a step back into time at the Revolution of Hip Hop 1986 to 1990 and experience the street fashions of Dapper Dan, the beats of DJ Scott LaRock, the rhymes of Biz Markie, and the culture of Hip Hop that was chronicled by “Video Music Box,” Word Up Magazine, The Source, “The Arsenio Hall Show,” and scores of other outlets.
Multimedia Timeline
The Curators
Pamela French
Content Producer, Associate Video Curator
Find Us
Arrive at Bronx Terminal Market. Enter on the ground level at 610 Exterior Street, next door to HOSTOS Community College Media Center (Entrance 1), or on the Lower Level in the parking garage next to Pizza Studio (Entrance 2).
Note that our previous entrance is now our exit.
COVID-19 Protocols
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, THHM requires all visitors 12 years of age and older to show either: (1) proof of at least one dose of vaccination against COVID-19, or (2) proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 24 hours prior to your visit, and (3) a valid ID with name and photo or name and date of birth to gain entry to the museum, which includes The [R]Evolution of Hip Hop.
If you require an accommodation to the entry requirements based on a medical condition, disability, or sincerely held religious belief, please contact tickets@THHM.org three (3) days before your visit.
By purchasing a ticket for entry to THHM (including The [R]Evolution of Hip Hop) and/or by visiting the museum in person, you agree to abide by the above policies at all times during your visit. THHM reserves the right to refuse entry to anyone not abiding by the policies. If you feel you have been unlawfully denied entry please contact tickets@THHM.org.
The highly contagious Omicron variant is spreading quickly in New York City, and unvaccinated people are at the most risk for infection, hospitalization, and death. You can get vaccinated for free; learn how to do so here. For more information on the mandate, visit NYC.gov.