So come and visit the tire screeching, ambulance, policemen/Wont you spend a weekend on Rosecrans nigga/Khaki creasing, crime increasing on Rosecrans nigga
What a day! I am tired! My days are beginning to roll into one. There is so much that I've seen and heard today. Many of it that I can't write and post about but has opened my eyes to the lifestyle. I woke up this morning around 8 and just now returning to my hotel. What have I been doing all day you ask? Making connections, speaking to people in the community, taking field notes of the neighborhoods, and mapping the scene. One of the most important aspects of my research is understanding the social environment and the positive or negative contribution each person has towards its community. So before I begin interviews, this is what I aim to accomplish; having a better understanding of the people and community.
Of course, a main portion of my research involves gangsta rap; but before I divulge into this segment of
former gang members' lives, I need clarity on location and street references often discussed in the music. Today, I had the opportunity to take a tour of key neighborhoods and streets that are usually described in gangsta rap music. When describing one's home in gangsta rap, there is a sense of love and pride from the rap artists. Although I study the origins of gangsta rap, an example of a gangsta rap artist that shows the love for his city in his music is Kendrick Lamar. With any of his songs there is a place marker that identifies his lineage with Compton. This also goes for Dr. Dre, N.W.A, Compton's Most Wanted, etc. Location is very important to a rapper's identity and image.
As I stated earlier, I'm very tired and have another busy day ahead. I'm going to church in the morning invited by one of the former gang members I have gotten to know over the past couple days. So Goodnight and Sweet Dreams.
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