Sociology

Transcendence (philosophy)

Literature

Aesthetics

Epistemology

Visual arts

Rhetoric

Philosophy

Lyrics

Rhetorical question

Harmony (color)

Linguistics

Howard Journal of Communications

In this article we examine Afrocentricity as it is manifested in rap music. We concentrate on the overarching concept of nommo and its various characteristics to help illuminate Afrocentricity as a method of rhetorical analysis. Specifically, by using lyrics from a diverse selection of rap music, we demonstrate how these particular rap songs reveal the rhetorical dimensions of Afrocentricity. The sampled lyrics in this paper show that rap artists often identify their concerns with African American history and traditions while, at the same time, emphasizing the importance of their own immediate experiences. In keeping with the Afrocentric notion of rhetoric, the ultimate goal for rap artists seems to be achieving balance, harmony, and transcendence in the community.

Manifestations of Afrocentricity in Rap Music