In other disappointing news, Iran has declared hip-hop illegal – anyone performing or recording rap, as well as anyone not traditionally dressed, will be arrested. While it may just be anti-American posturing by the Ministry for Culture and Islamic Guidance, it could also mean a serious crackdown on an underground hip-hop scene that brought issues of Iranian politics and culture to light.
For sure, it’s a clear indicator that hip-hop is still struggling to find acceptance as a culture.