The outside perception of Harlem has changed drastically since the early 1900’s. During the Harlem Renaissance, it became known as a center of soul food, poetry, jazz, and other forms of entertainment. (See Harlem Renaissance) Amazing talent such as Billie Holiday emoted through jazz and poetry, creating a buzz and a reputation for the area.
During the mid to late 1900’s, Harlem developed a reputation for being a rough neighborhood, and people were wary of exploring it. Crime and drugs were considered the norm, and stereotypes became commonplace.The epitome of this perception took place in the 1990’s, as crack became prevalent in society, and hip-hop artists based a large number of their tracks on violence with the police, drug deals, and stealing money. The popular stereotype, perpetuated by the media became one that Harlem was home to vast amounts of violence and illicit drugs, and this perception remained until recently.
However, there has been a recent change in media outlook towards Harlem, and more people have been focusing on the soul and art side of it.
As crime decreased, the media began to focus more and more on other aspects, such as the family houses available only in only Manhattan locations. Media attention has also been caught by celebrities such as Samuel L. Jackson having townhouses in the area as well.
However, not all Harlem residents are happy with gentrification. Some media outlets have publicized protests, and some protesters have gone as far as calling gentrification a form of “ethnic cleansing.” Protests such as these are happening, but there seems to be no traction, and gentrification seems to be going on regardless.
Credit: www.blog-aroundharlem.com
Credit: www.blackagendareport.com
New technology has made it possible for Harlem to be explored in even more different ways. People want to recapture the culture and renaissance that made it popular through these technologies. Many sites and radio stations such as All Things Harlem and Harlem Media provide the outside world with an insight to the culture and current events of Harlem.
Now, when people come to New York City, they want to try the soul food of Harlem, listen the local music, and explore its role in both New York City and the United States. And of course, the Harlem Shake has once again thrown Harlem into the spotlight.
Credit: tctechcrunch2011.files.wordpress.com
A screenshot from “allthingsharlem.com”
Big L was a Harlem- based rap artist. This song (“Da Enemy”) is one of his more famous tracks, and it is about the relationship between African American males and law enforcement. (Warning: Explicit Language)
