Is Hip-Hop Violent? Analyzing the Relationship Between Live Music Performances and Violence

In: Journal of black studies, Band 49, Heft 3, S. 235-255

Abstract

This project tested the dominant cultural belief that Hip-Hop music is a more violent form of music. Our research compared music genres and indicators of violence. Using data from the Madison Police Department, we coded and analyzed 4,624 police calls made from bars, clubs, and venues licensed to host live musical performances in Madison from 2008 to 2016. We then determined whether there was a live music performance during the time of a police call by using archives from local publications, venue websites, and direct correspondence with venues. When compared with all other genres, our analysis does not confirm the popular belief that live Hip-Hop performances have higher instances of violence in Madison, Wisconsin.