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Hip-hop did not stay confined to the Bronx. It quickly spread to other boroughs of New York City, especially Brooklyn, Queens, and Harlem. It also diversified into different forms of expression, each with its own style and culture. These forms became known as the four elements of hip-hop: DJing, MCing (or rapping), breakdancing (or b-boying), and graffiti writing (or aerosol art).
DJing was the foundation of hip-hop. It involved manipulating records on turntables to create new sounds and rhythms. DJs experimented with different techniques such as scratching, cutting, mixing, sampling, and beat juggling. They also competed with each other in battles to showcase their skills and creativity. Some of the most influential DJs in hip-hop history include Grandmaster Flash, Afrika Bambaataa, Grand Wizard Theodore, Grandmixer DXT, DJ Jazzy Jeff, DJ Premier, DJ Shadow, and many more.
MCing is the vocal element of hip-hop. It involves speaking or chanting rhymes over beats created by DJs or drum machines. MCs use their words to tell stories, express opinions, challenge rivals, or simply have fun. They also develop different styles of delivery such as flow, cadence, tone, accent, vocabulary, and wordplay. Some of the most influential MCs in hip-hop history include Kool Moe Dee, Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, KRS-One, Nas, Tupac Shakur, Notorious B.I.G., Jay-Z, Eminem, Kendrick Lamar, and many more.
Breaking is the physical element of hip-hop. It involves performing acrobatic and intricate body movements on the floor or in the air. Breakers use their skills to showcase their creativity, strength, agility, and musicality. They also compete with each other in battles or cyphers to prove their superiority or earn respect. Some of the most influential breakers in hip-hop history include Crazy Legs, Ken Swift, Frosty Freeze, Storm, Roxrite, Lilou, Hong 10, Menno, and many more.
Graffiti is the visual element of hip-hop. It involves painting stylized letters and images on walls, trains, or other surfaces. Graffiti writers use their skills to express their identity, creativity, and messages. They also compete with each other for fame, respect, and territory. Some of the most influential graffiti writers in hip-hop history include Dondi, Lady Pink, Futura 2000, Lee Quinones, Phase 2, Zephyr, and many more.