A Photo-Exhibit.
Hip Hop is a global social- cultural phenomenon that emerges in a context of poverty, displacement and State violence during the early 1970’s in The South Bronx. It is rooted and it is an important continuation of the radical traditions of civil rights and black liberations movements of the 50’s and 60’s.
Renown Bronx-born photographer, Joe Conzo jr captured Hip Hop’s baby steps. This exhibit celebrates Hip Hop culture and its community . Joe’s photos include early hip hop jams, street scenes, and Latin music performers and events. In 1978, while attending South Bronx High School, Joe became friends with members of the Cold Crush Brothers, an important and influential early Hip Hop group.
Joe was a part of a generation that refused to be erased by corrupt politicians and a disparaging educational system. His talents found their niche within the collective acts of defiance that boldly re-invented the very world that left them for dead.
Join us for a reception and talk with photographer Joe Conzo jr as we learn about the earliest era of hip hop, its culture and community.
Description of image: Almighty Kay Gee of the Cold Crush Brothers performing with the Cold Crush Brothers at Harlem World, Easter 1981. Kay Gee is handing out Joe Conzo photos to the crowd.
Photo taken by Joe Conzo.
© Cornell University Library and Joe Conzo.