Crowning Glory: Exploring the Resonance of Black Hair Culture in Hip Hop and Shaping Black Identity

Arielle Dickerson
Oct 22, 2024
2 min read

BALTIMORE, MD - In recent years, a dynamic union has emerged between art celebrating black hair and the realms of hip hop and black culture as a whole. Through thought-provoking art pieces that pay homage to the beauty and complexity of black hair, the exhibit THE CULTURE at The Baltimore Museum of Arts’ were able to bring multiple artists including Baltimore natives to celebrate The 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop. These works were able to capture the diverse textures, styles, and symbolism of black hair, serving as visual testimonials to the rich heritage and journey of black people.

Photo: Mitro Hood/BMA.

One notable aspect of this artistic movement is its interaction with hip hop, a genre that has long been a voice for social commentary and self-expression within the black community. Artists have drawn inspiration from Hip Hop culture, using their music and lyrics to continue the dialogue surrounding black hair culture. Hip Hop has always been more than just music; it’s a lifestyle. The culture is known for its bold fashion choices, and hair plays a significant role in that. From the iconic afro to the more modern raids and locs, hip hop hairstyles have been setting trends for decades.

Hair and hip hop have deep-rooted connections. Hair stands at the heart of Black culture, symbolizing identity, resistance, creative expression, and freedom. According to Dr. Kaye Whitehead, a radio host at WEAA, “hip-hop just gave us another outlet to share who we were to share our creativity.” Lil Kim and Left Eye, two well-known female rap musicians from the 1990s, were well-known for their extravagant hairstyles both during advertisements and live performances. Lil Kim is credited with being the first to popularize colored wigs, and one of her most well-known and recognizable hairstyles is a blue wig with bangs and the Chanel logo on top.

Gamynne Guillotte, a curator at the Baltimore Museum of Art, has seen firsthand how bringing these works together has influenced the community. "I believe that representation within the museum space is important for all communities." Guillotte explained. "Museums are places where we tell sort of the collective story of ourselves, our cultures, and our societies."

The creation of Hip Hop marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of Black Culture within America. As the brushstrokes continue to evolve and the beats continue to resonate, the celebration of black hair culture in art and hip hop will persist as a symbol of cultural empowerment and a testament to the power of creative expression. The fusion of these two mediums has given birth to a movement that not only celebrates black beauty but also fosters a sense of belonging, acceptance, and cultural pride among generations of black individuals.