The Message (US)

Hip hop was set out in the dark. They used to do it out in the park. The premiere episode traces the roots of hip hop, from its birth in New York to its spread to California with limited support from mainstream media.

Will hip hop be able to grow up in a world that is no longer just about peace, love, unity and having fun? Hip hop faces its first roadblocks with violent realities and extreme opposition from those who disagree with its messaging. Meanwhile, a new voice begins to form.

Hip hop explores a new reality of lasciviousness, wealth and entrepreneurship characterized by fast cars, big jewelry, the birth of the video vixen and the start of popular clothing lines such as Rocawear, Sean Jean and Wu Wear.

The Internet creates new opportunities for hip hop to change the face of America. From the rise of hip hop's first major Internet superstar, rapper Soulja Boy, to the infamous 360 deals, this episode looks to the future of hip hop.