The 2022 Music Holiday Gift Guide For Musicians

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Guitar Center gift guide 2022
Uproxx

This holiday season, it’s likely you have all kinds of different people to buy for. If you have a musician on your list, keep reading.

It can be tough to know what to get the artist in your life, so we’re offering an excellent place to start on your gift-giving journey with this list of gifts for musicians that you can find at Guitar Center. Whether they could use a new guitar, a boost to their live performance setup, more professional-sounding tools for DIY home recordings, or something else entirely, this list has you covered with links to all these amazing buys. (It probably wouldn’t hurt to look at the 2021 version of this list, either.)

Before you know it, you’ll be out of time to get your holiday shopping done. So, now that we’ve gotten the intro out of the way, let’s get into it.

Gibson Les Paul Traditional Pro V Flame Top Electric Guitar Transparent Ebony Burst

Gibson Les Paul Traditional Pro V Flame Top Electric Guitar Transparent Ebony Burst
Guitar Center

When it comes to guitars, you can’t go wrong with a Les Paul, and especially not this one. This Ebony Burst model is the latest in the Traditional Pro V series and features an AA Flame Maple top, asymmetrical neck profile, and locking tuners. As for where to pick one up, it’s a Guitar Center-exclusive.

Get it here.

Schecter Guitar Research Machine Gun Kelly PT Electric Guitar Hot Pink

Guitar Center
Guitar Center

Speaking of Guitar Center-exclusive axes, get a load of this satin black model highlighted by vibrant pink accents. If it looks familiar, that’s because it’s the same model featured on the cover of MGK’s well-received 2022 album Mainstream Sellout.

Get it here.

Simmons Titan 20 Electronic Drum Kit With Mesh Pads and Bluetooth

Simmons Titan 20 Electronic Drum Kit With Mesh Pads and Bluetooth
Guitar Center

Classic drum kits have an undeniable appeal, but sometimes, an electronic set is the proper tool for the job. That’s where this new eKit from Simmons comes in, as it features a powerful collection of drum sounds, Bluetooth and MIDI connectivity, USB output for recording, a free companion app for phones or tablets, and most importantly, a satisfying playing feel.

Get it here.

Sela Kalimba Art Series 10 Key Little Monster

Sela Kalimba Art Series 10 Key Little Monster
Guitar Center

A kalimba is the perfect instrument for beginners and experts alike, as it’s approachable to play and sounds lovely both on its own and as an accompaniment for singers, musicians, and dancers. This model in particular is striking with the fun and vibrant illustrations on its front face. This one will be easy to keep in pristine condition, too, thanks to the padded bag it comes with.

Get it here.

Snoop Dogg — Doggystyle Vinyl 2 LP

Snoop Dogg - Doggystyle Vinyl Record
Guitar Center

Snoop Dogg is the kind of artist who never really goes out of style, and his 1993 debut album is still as much a banger today as it was when it was released nearly 30 years ago. It’s a must for any vinyl collection and that’s especially true of this 2-LP edition, which has been digitally remastered.

Get it here.

Fender Limited-Edition Holiday Sweater

Fender Limited Edition Holiday Sweater
Guitar Center

For some, holiday sweaters are as big a part of the season as the tree, exchanging gifts, and eating too much while surrounded by the people you love. If you want to fold your music fan-hood into this cozy mix, this limited edition Fender sweater is a strong look (and it’s exclusive to Guitar Center).

Get it here.

Harbinger MLS1000 Personal Line Array Speaker System

Harbinger MLS1000 Personal Line Array Speaker System
Guitar Center

If the artist in your life is a live performer (or if they’re approaching that stage), an upgrade to their on-stage sound setup would probably be welcomed. This all-in-one sound system from Harbinger could be the solution they’re looking for, as it offers big, professional sound in a small footprint that’ll be easy to lug from gig to gig.

Get it here.

Venue Mothership 360 Degree Moving Head Multi-FX Light With Laser

Venue Mothership 360 Degree Moving Head Multi-FX Light With Laser
Guitar Center

Once the aforementioned artist is all set up with sound, lighting is key to making a performance really pop. This high-quality, multi-effect setup is designed for all walks of musical life, from DJs to venue owners to anybody else who wants to take their on-stage presentation to a new level.

Get it here.

Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface

Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface
Guitar Center

Creating professional-sounding recordings from home is getting more and more approachable every day, thanks in part to products like this setup from Sterling. This audio interface is packed with studio-quality circuitry and offers flexible monitoring and superior sound quality, all geared towards delivering a seamless and superlative desktop recording experience.

Get it here.

Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1-N Serato Performance DJ Controller in Limited-Edition Gold

Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1-N Serato Performance DJ Controller in Limited-Edition Gold
Guitar Center

It’ll be hard to find a DJ setup that looks more crisp and premium than this one with its limited-edition gold finish. Aesthetics aside, this controller is a serious piece of hardware, a fantastic solution for open-format and scratch DJs that emulates a professional DJM-S mixer and PLX turntable setup.

Get it here.



source https://uproxx.com/music/2022-holiday-gift-guide-musicians/

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Hip Hop and Music: A Cultural Evolution

Hip Hop and Music: A Cultural Evolution and What Listeners Look For Hip hop is more than just a genre of music; it is a cultural movement that has deeply influenced the world for over four decades. Originating in the South Bronx during the 1970s, hip hop was birthed from the creative expression of marginalized communities. What started as a fusion of DJing, breakdancing, graffiti art and MCing (rapping) quickly became a global phenomenon. Over the years, hip hop has expanded its reach, influencing various aspects of society, from fashion and language to politics and social movements. But what exactly do listeners seek when they tune in to their favorite hip hop tracks? Let’s explore.

The Evolution of Hip Hop Music

The Evolution of Hip Hop Music At its core, hip hop music is built on rhythm and lyricism. Early pioneers like DJ Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash, and Run-D.M.C. laid the foundation for what we now recognize as hip hop. They mixed disco, funk, and soul beats with rhythmic rapping to create a unique sound. Through the 1980s and 1990s, iconic artists such as Tupac, The Notorious B.I.G., Nas, and Jay-Z further shaped the genre, adding deeper narratives that explored social issues, struggles, and triumphs.
In the 2000s, hip hop saw its golden age evolve into new sub-genres, from Southern hip hop (e.g., OutKast and Lil Wayne) to the rise of trap music (led by artists like Future, Gucci Mane, and Migos). Today, artists continue to experiment with hybrid sounds, blending trap with pop, rock, and electronic music, creating a more diverse landscape for the genre.

What Listeners Look for in Hip Hop Music

What Listeners Look for in Hip Hop Music While the genre has evolved, the heart of hip hop music still beats with certain core elements that listeners continue to seek. Here’s what attracts audiences to hip hop music:

1. Authenticity

One of the most important qualities of hip hop is its authenticity. Listeners are drawn to artists who stay true to themselves, their roots, and their experiences. Whether an artist is rapping about overcoming hardship, life in the streets, or personal triumphs, their genuineness resonates with fans. Authenticity gives hip hop its raw edge, connecting the artist's voice with listeners on a deeply personal level.

2. Lyricism and Wordplay

Hip hop has always been a platform for storytelling, and the craft of lyricism is highly valued. Fans look for clever wordplay, metaphors, punchlines, and deep storytelling in their favorite tracks. Rappers like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Nas are revered for their intricate lyricism and ability to convey powerful messages through their words. A song with sharp bars, vivid imagery, and emotional depth can elevate a listener’s connection to the music.

3. Beat and Production Quality

The beat is often the first thing people notice in a hip hop song. A catchy, hard-hitting beat can make or break a track, and producers play an integral role in shaping the sound of hip hop music. Producers like Dr. Dre, Kanye West, and Metro Boomin have become household names for their distinctive production styles. From boom-bap beats to trap drums, the instrumental elements are essential in drawing listeners into the rhythm and groove of the song.

4. Innovation and Evolution

Hip hop is known for its constant evolution. Fans of the genre are often on the lookout for artists who push boundaries and experiment with new sounds. This spirit of innovation keeps the genre fresh and exciting. From the rise of auto-tune with artists like T-Pain to the blend of electronic and rap seen with artists like Travis Scott, listeners are eager for new music that challenges the traditional limits of hip hop.

5. Vibe and Energy

Hip hop isn’t just about the lyrics or the beat—it’s also about the energy the music brings. Whether it’s a party anthem, an introspective track, or a political statement, the vibe and energy of a song play a crucial role in how it resonates with fans. Artists like Drake, Cardi B, and Lil Uzi Vert have mastered the art of creating tracks that make listeners feel a certain way, whether it’s hyped up, laid back, or reflective.

6. Relatability and Emotional Connection

Hip hop has always been an outlet for self-expression and commentary on life experiences. Because of this, listeners often gravitate toward songs that reflect their own lives, struggles, and aspirations. Whether it’s a song about the challenges of growing up in a tough environment, the celebration of personal success, or the experience of love and heartbreak, hip hop has the unique ability to connect emotionally with audiences. Fans often seek songs that speak to their individual journeys and provide comfort, validation, or empowerment.

The Global Reach of Hip Hop

What was once confined to the streets of New York City has now become a global cultural force. From Tokyo to Paris, hip hop has spread across continents, influencing artists and listeners worldwide. In recent years, artists from outside the U.S. have brought their own cultural influences to the genre, blending hip hop with local sounds, languages, and traditions. The genre’s global reach is a testament to its universal themes of struggle, self-expression, and empowerment.

Conclusion

Hip hop music is an ever-evolving cultural powerhouse that has grown from a localized subculture into a global sensation. The authenticity, lyricism, production quality, innovation, energy, and emotional depth are the main ingredients that attract listeners to hip hop. While the genre continues to change, its core values remain consistent—offering a space for self-expression, storytelling, and connection. As hip hop continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly remain a major force in shaping the future of music. Whether you’re a fan of classic boom-bap or modern trap, hip hop’s diverse range offers something for everyone, proving that its cultural impact is here to stay.