This work is a revealing chronicle of Hip Hop culture from its beginnings three decades ago to the present, with an analysis of its influence on people and popular culture in the United States and around the world. * An extensively researched narrative of the history of Hip Hop in four informative, richly detailed chapters * More than 50 photographs of Hip Hop's major players, scenes, and styles * An extensive annotated bibliography of print and online resources, plus listings of important organizations, associations, and programs dedicated to Hip Hop culture * A comprehensive glossary of terms and phrases such as "bling bling" and "thuglife" * Sidebars on fascinating topics, reflecting the latest research and statistical data * Analyses of the 50 most influential Hip Hop songs and the 30 most influential Hip Hop albums