Rap-Up: The Ultimate Guide to Hip-Hop and R&B - Softcover

From the megaselling songs to the biggest stars to the most outrageous scandals, Rap-Up gives you a comprehensive behind-the-scenes look at the revolutionary music that's transforming pop culture. Discover:

HISTORY LESSON

How it all started, from rappers armed with toy keyboards and ambition...to breakout groups like Run-D.M.C. and Public Enemy who brought the 'hood to the suburbs and changed music forever.

THE NEW NEW SCHOOL

One-of-a-kind profiles of Jay-Z, Beyoncé, 50 Cent, Usher, Ciara, and all the hottest artists. And a look at the moguls and producers who shape the hits, including urban-flow stylist Jermaine Dupri, off-center innovators The Neptunes, and techno-beat genius Timbaland.

WHERE'S THE BEEF?

The inside story on rap's most notorious battles, from the legendary Juice Crew vs. Boogie Down Productions duel over hip-hop bragging rights, to the Jay-Z vs. Nas battle-of-the-giants, to the 50 Cent vs. The Game take-no-prisoners faceoff.

FROM HOLLIS TO HOLLYWOOD

A comprehensive list of hip-hop on the silver screen-the good, the bad, and the performers (Will Smith, Jamie Foxx, Queen Latifah) who achieved box office gold and Oscar fame.

Complete with takes on must-own CDs and tracks, pop quizzes, career highlights, and artist road maps, this unique, definitive book is all you need to get down with everything hip-hop and R&B.