Philanthropy in Gangsta Rap

Rap music has always been a sub-culture of hip-hop music that is attacked by criticism from society for the way its content and over-all themes candidly contradict what is believed to be moral and righteous. Gangsta rappers have been giving out negative images of themselves as they degrade and disrespect the women and the black people in our society through the lyrics of their songs. For all the instances where they promote these negative ideas in our society, rap music becomes a negative social force. However gangsta rappers are tired of given this negative stereotype. They have started to change for the better as they start to do philanthropic acts that help prevent poverty and inspire others to do the same.
Born on July 6, 1975, Curtis James Jackson III (better known as 50 Cent) began drug dealing at a young age. He left drug dealing to pursue a rap career and rose to fame after releasing his album Get Rich or Die Tryin’ in 2003 – this made him realize how he could use his success to make a difference (Marcovitz 8). When one hears the name ’50 Cent’, one brings about visions of a lavish, superstar lifestyle, as he is an aggressive enterprising person ever since he first found his feet. Now, he is in a position of power to make a real difference on a global scale.
“50 Cent launched the G Unity Foundation, which provides grants to non-profit organization that work to improve the quality of life for low-income and under-served communities. He now looks to feed the hungry in Africa as he provides one meal for every shot sold of the Street King energy drink, which he has created” (“The Street King Story” 1).

Before going on to the arguments about gangsta rappers doing philanthropic acts, we must first understand the tradition of the African-American people of “giving back”. According to Tricia Rose, author of the book “The Hip Hop Wars,” African-American rappers have a powerful and long tradition of giving back to the community, which has helped them become...