Native American Rap and Reggae Summary

Neal Ullestad discusses Native American musicians roles in forming new, contemporary music that falls under the rap and reggae genres.  In both Native American rap and reggae, three themes become apparent in their music.  One common theme is the the conquest and mistreatment of Native Americans by the Europeans, as well as the subsequent abuse that their relatives faced throughout American history.  Harjo sings about the conquest and genocide of her people on her compact disc "Letter from the End of the Twentieth Century," yet she also celebrates her people's survival and will despite all of the hardships they have faced.  Some artists, such as John Trudell address gender conflict issues that modern society has thrust upon Native American women.  

Native American rap had been transformed by WithOut Reservation (also referred to as W.O.R.) who's songs central themes focus on "social structures that, among other things, leave many Native Americans filled with self-hate and alcohol."  W.O.R., like contemporary artists such as Harjo and Trudell, also discuss injustice and stereotypes in their music.  These themes set Native American rap, reggae and pop apart from mainstream pop, as they are very political and social, serving as advocates for Native American people.  To further distinguish Native American rap, reggae and rock, one must take into consideration the hybrid features of the music, in particular the manner in which the artists blend traditional Native American music with contemporary music in order to reach a wider audience and spread the messages.