Hip hop, or rap, music videos conventionally have many low-angled, close up shots within them. The low angles face upwards, usually towards the lead artist, signifying that they have power over the audience. This is part of the genre as rappers usually portray themselves as dominant figures.
The costumes worn in hip hop, are usually of recognisable brands. Commonly the clothing is baggy, 'street clothing'. Vests are also a frequent occurrence, along with bandannas, and hoodies. In addition sports clothing is a convention, such as basketball shirts. Part of the costumes is the jewellery worn by artists in rap videos, which is often noticeable and gold, such as big chains and rings.
Hip hop videos tend to not have much of a narrative, but instead be about parties, and money. The rapper is usually always rapping to the camera, breaking the 4th wall. Many attractive women are present in hip hop music videos, who are usually signified as less powerful than the main artist. The women in rap videos are usually shown in voyeuristic ways, with the male gaze theory being present through close ups of women in skimpy clothing.
The locations in hip hop videos conventionally are parties, and clubs. These locations are normally in expensive areas, connoting the life of a rapper is a glamorous one. In these locations wads of money is frequently shown, and lots of alcohol. Furthermore, expensive cars are also a convention of the genre.
Rap music videos are fast paced, to work with this is the fast paced editing of the visuals. The lyrics of hip hop music are usually about violence, money, and women. Within the lyrics, the use of taboo language is commonly frequent.
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