MC Hammer has made it clear that he did not take part in the Hip Hop 50th anniversary events due to his belief that the culture has become immature, and as a mature individual, he chooses not to engage in it. The 60-year-old rap icon expressed his stance during Tupac Shakur’s Oakland street naming last month, and the video of his speech has now gone viral.
Key Takeaway
MC Hammer declined to participate in the Hip Hop 50th anniversary events, citing his belief that the culture has become immature. His decision has sparked disappointment among industry figures, including Questlove.
Hammer’s Critique
During the ceremony, MC Hammer not only celebrated his decision to not use his illustrious career for mere interview clicks, but also criticized veteran rappers who have built their careers around themes of violence, despite lacking any actual involvement in such activities.
The “U Can’t Touch This” rapper, who was friends with Tupac during their time in the Bay, credited the late rapper for being the only one to understand the facade of the music industry and get him to play along with it.
Questlove’s Disappointment
During the recent star-studded Grammy celebration, Questlove, the event’s producer, openly expressed his disappointment at MC Hammer’s refusal to participate, despite repeated requests. Hammer’s decision to decline the invitation was not an isolated case, as André 3000 also expressed skepticism about the merit of the Hip Hop 50 celebrations at this point in time.
MC Hammer has hinted that his story will be told through a book and movie combination, but it will not align with the schedule of the Hip Hop 50 events.
