Yes, you're correct. Rap can be seen as a subset of hip-hop, as it is one of the core elements of the broader hip-hop culture. However, rap can also exist independently as a genre of music.

The history of rap can be traced back to African oral traditions, where storytelling, poetic expressions, and rhythmic speech were common. In the United States, rap originated in the 1970s in African American and Latino communities in the Bronx, New York City. It emerged as a form of artistic expression and a means of communication in marginalized communities.

During this time, DJs began using turntables to create loops and extend instrumental sections of songs, which led to the development of breakbeats. These breakbeats provided a rhythmic foundation for MCs (Master of Ceremonies) to deliver their rhymes and engage the audience. MCs would often engage in "battles," where they would compete to showcase their skills and lyrical prowess.

Rap gained popularity in the 1980s with the release of seminal tracks like "Rapper's Delight" by The Sugarhill Gang and the emergence of influential artists such as Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, Run-DMC, and Public Enemy. The genre continued to evolve and diversify throughout the 1980s and 1990s, with different regional styles and sub-genres emerging.

In the 1990s, rap experienced a significant commercial breakthrough, with artists like Tupac Shakur, The Notorious B.I.G., and Jay-Z becoming mainstream stars. Rap also became a powerful form of social commentary, addressing issues such as racism, poverty, violence, and social inequality.

Over the years, rap has continued to evolve and branch out into various sub-genres and styles, including gangsta rap, conscious rap, trap, mumble rap, and more. It has become a global phenomenon, influencing music and popular culture worldwide.

Today, rap remains an integral part of popular music and continues to evolve with new artists pushing boundaries and exploring new sounds and themes. It has also become a platform for storytelling, self-expression, and cultural commentary, reflecting the experiences and realities of different communities and individuals.
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