Oral histories: Walker conducts interviews with influential figures from the early hip-hop scene, including Afrika Bambaataa, Kool Herc, and Grandmaster Flash. These interviews provide firsthand accounts of the origins and evolution of hip-hop culture.
Documentary evidence: Walker draws on historical documents and archival materials, such as flyers, posters, and newspaper articles, to corroborate her claims about the cultural context and social impact of early hip-hop.
Musical analysis: Walker analyzes early hip-hop music to identify its unique characteristics and contributions to the development of the genre. She discusses the techniques used by early hip-hop artists, such as sampling, breakbeats, and rapping, and explores the themes and messages expressed in their lyrics.
Sociological and cultural analysis: Walker examines the social and cultural factors that influenced the emergence and growth of hip-hop culture, such as the decline of the manufacturing sector, the rise of the urban youth culture, and the influence of African-American and Latino communities. She also discusses the ways in which hip-hop culture intersected with other social movements, such as the Civil Rights Movement and the Black Power Movement.
Overall, Walker's use of multiple sources of evidence provides a well-rounded and comprehensive account of early hip-hop culture, supporting her assertions about its origins, development, and impact on society.