Hip-Hop's Latest Obession: Anime

As of late Anime has been taking over. An anime is a Japanese cartoon typically watched in Japanese with English subtitles. Even Social Media Mogul Kim Kardashian has changed her hair color to Pink because of her Anime obession.

Kim Kardahsian rocks pink hair because of her love for Anime.

According to the Revolt “ J. Cole's somber opus "4 Your Eyez Only" samples "To The Oasis" from the popular anime Lupin III. Somehow, Cam'Ron and Vado managed to get a hold of "Shohmyo" from the anime film Akirafor their 2011 hit "Speaking In Tungs." And Chance The Rapper's debut project 10 Day features a scene from the classic program Gundam Wing”. It is undeniable that Anime is taking over hip-hop. Artists like Lil Yachty, Future, J. Cole, Kayne West, MF Doom and the Wu Tang-Clan are just some of the artists who have used Anime. Yes, Anime is prevalent but what does it have to do with hip-hop?

A short answer to that question would be absolutely nothing. However, hip-hop musicians bring in their real-life hobbies into their music and Anime just happens to be taking over. When musicians are a fan of something, they bring in their passion for that into music. Whatever makes a musician creative is often added into their music. Their music is an expression of their interest, hobbies, and experiences. If their passion for Anime fits into one of those areas of music, then Anime can be considered an influence. Hip-Hop adores Anime because of what Anime represents. Anime represents creativity, individual expression, and freedom from oppression. So, what does Anime have to do with Hip-Hop? It has nothing to do with hip-hop but everything to do with the musician writing it. Musicians write about things that influence their life experience and for an ever-increasing number of musicians, Anime is one of those influences.