As I explained in the first “Hipster Hopscotch” mix, my definition of what constitutes hip-hop may be a little broader than most. The more music I am exposed to, the more connections I make within its rich tapestry. Music history is itself a collection of influences, a result of continual hybridization that takes an instrument from here, a rhythmic idea from there, and constantly churns out fresh material. Even at its roots, hip-hop depended heavily on the recorded music of other genres (e.g., drum breaks lifted from funk, disco, and rock and looped indefinitely). As always, I hope this mix helps to spark a few more connections.

[Artwork: Keith Kawaii]