Hip-Hop’s Re-Definitions — Code & Culture

The Refinitions

The Temple of Hip-Hop uses the term Refinitions as simply a word that means re-definitions. Hip-Hop Kulture in its elementary form of street language has many refinitions. It is demanded in Hip-Hop because everyday language changes with the times and culture of the day. In this process words often adopt a dual meaning. For example; respect for the CHANGE in your purse or wallet can CHANGE your life.

With a history going back to the era of the Civil Rights Movement, the Black Power Movement and before these times, the streets have always had a code language. This way of communicating with the use of words only common to the streets is essential within Hip-Hop Kulture. As language simply does not have enough words to express exactly what one maybe feeling, it raises the self value of Hiphoppas to be readily capable of sometimes mixing two words or making a up new word altogether. Although some people consider this street slang, this is merely an outside observer’s interpretation of a language they may not understand. Although some comedy TV shows etc. may portray ‘street lingo’ or ‘rudeboy talk’ as simplistic, crude and ridiculous, when used intelligently, it is not. The real essence of Street Language is a different way of talking when participating in the struggle of today’s inner cities and urban areas, and a legitimate and complex way of speaking in society.

As an example Hip-Hop’s street language in England, the word ‘Peak’ changes its meanings from the summit of a mountain to recognition of something effective like a good diss or a way of indicating something is reaching the tipping point. It adds a metaphorical value to everyday language without using the literal meaning. Similarly, in the U.S the word ‘freestyle’ in rap music has changed interpretation from kickin’ lyrics off the top of ya dome to be a pre-written verse creatively based on a loose concept.

The Temple of Hip-Hop acknowledges words have a meaning in Street Language which today’s standard dictionaries may not include. Obviously words have migrated from the USA to the UK and other English speaking countries. This is also true of various other languages across the world. Words in different places, from country to country and city to city have different meanings. Each area has its own unique Street Language. It is urged that any words used are respectful to our elders and appropriate our to inner city environments and living situations. The intentions behind the words we use are a powerful means to create Health, Love, Awareness and Wealth for Hiphoppas, such is indeed what the productive Hip-Hop lifestyle produces.

Peace and Much Love from I Am Hip-Hop Magazine and The Temple Of Hip Hop.

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Vish ShvaOne

Author at I Am Hip-Hop Magazine

Vish is an Emcee, education development leader at the Hip Hip Historian Society and recently, co-director of Every Person is Capable. He works on Hip Hop community matters and lives to uplift people.