When asked what their memories of the late 1980s and early 1990s are, many may bring up an array of topics. For stakeholders in the music scene, however, the time period is recognized as the golden age of hip hop. It is a period that marked the creation of renowned rappers in music history.

Some of the music albums released in the era still get massive airplay today. At the time, most of the artists associated with mainstream music came from the New York metropolis. The genre was diverse and heralded a new kind of feel to modern hits.

A large number of artists came into the fold at the time. They include Public Enemy, Slick Rick, Beastie Boys, the Jungle Brothers and LL Cool J among others. The albums they released remained top of the billboard charts for weeks on end and defined the way future generations embraced rap music. When the 90s drew to a close, artists like Eminem and Dr. Dre picked up the mantle.

Many music enthusiasts know the era for its innovative contribution to the industry. Every single hit being churned back then reinvented the genre. Unlike the long breaks that fans often get treated to these days, pioneering albums would be released month in month out.

The innovations also brought quick changes to the way tunes played out and the messages communicated through music. Beats and rhymes started to get faster. This was largely thanks to advancement in production technology. Many African American rappers also started to use their music to promote black activism.

A unique thing about the period is the heavy sampling that many producers did. Different types of beats, riffs and patterns were created fast. This bred music producers and DJs who could work at home with little equipment. The sampling that was prevalent in hip hop was largely dependent on rock n roll, jazz, soul and funk beats.

Due to the large number of beats being sampled at a time, rapping styles evolved quickly. Fans began to adore the fresh styles done by the likes of Chuck D, Big Daddy Kane, Rakim and KRS One. In the coming years, renowned music pundits talked of them as phenomenal. As creativity was rife, fans did not have much to complain about.

While some artists centered their lyrics on self glorification, many wrote songs of social protest. Social issues that got much attention through music include drug abuse, crime, culture, religion, politics and domestic violence. With hit after hit centering on these issues, the genre quickly began to gain popularity worldwide.

The large scale sampling that producers did gradually gave rise to lawsuits. Record labels began to file copyright suits against each other. Eventually, producers embraced the spirit of uniqueness, creativity and innovation.

Majority of music hits released these days can be linked to the pioneering effects of the genre. Despite the over emphasis on self glorification today, recurring social problems ought to be addressed through music. Such messages can create a positive impact in society.