The song “Don’t Shoot” has definitely defined the genre of rap, and hip hop music. All of the 12 artists included on the track are rap/hip hop artists. Hip Hop isn’t just a type of music, it’s a culture. It’s a culture full of original elements, and it’s also a place where people can show others what they’ve got and who they are. This genre get the stereotypical definition of vulgarity, violence, and bad messages.

On the contrary the song “Don’t Shoot” shone a spotlight on a gruesome and not pretty incident that could have been brushed under the rug. The Game and they other roster of artists on this track are predominantly African American. This cause was especially important to their backgrounds and the song connects to many of their African American fans who have ever felt victimized through police brutality and gun violence in their neighborhoods. Many like to think that hip hop music and politics were born with conflict, however they are evolving toward better recognition of hip-hop culture in government.

In America freedom of speech is a right and various artists, not just The Game use this to their advantage in order to impact political thought. In the blunt delivery of each verse from a different artist, the lyrics are strong and unapologetic. I believe that “Dont Shoot” is a perfect representation of the rap and hip hop genre, and all the passion behind it. Below are three references that agree with my views on the genre of rap/hip hop with the song “Don’t Shoot.”

  1. Weingarten, Christopher R. (August 27, 2014). “Hear the Game, Rick Ross, Diddy and More Join Forces for Ferguson on ‘Don’t Shoot’ ”. Rolling Stone.
  2. Stutz, Colin (August 27, 2014). “The Game Assembles All-Star Hip-Hop Crew for Michael Brown Tribute, ‘Don’t Shoot’ ”. Billboard.
  3.  Dickerson, Jessica (August 29, 2014). “Hip Hop Heavyweights Collaborate On Ferguson-Inspired Track ‘Don’t Shoot’ ”. The Huffington Post.