Musical style: Old school hip-hop, which emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s, is characterized by its raw and stripped-down sound. It often features breakbeats, turntable scratching, and simple rhyme schemes. Notable old school hip-hop artists include Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, Run-DMC, and LL Cool J.
New school hip-hop, on the other hand, emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s and brought about a more polished and sophisticated sound. It often incorporates elements of R&B, funk, and soul music, and features more complex rhyme schemes and production techniques. Notable new school hip-hop artists include Public Enemy, N.W.A., and A Tribe Called Quest.
Lyrics: Old school hip-hop lyrics were often focused on social commentary, political activism, and personal experiences. Artists used their music to express their views on social issues, such as poverty, racism, and police brutality.
New school hip-hop lyrics, on the other hand, often focused on more personal and introspective topics, such as relationships, wealth, and fame. While social commentary was still present, it was not as prominent as it was in old school hip-hop.
Production: Old school hip-hop was often produced using simple equipment, such as turntables, drum machines, and samplers. The focus was on creating a raw and authentic sound.
New school hip-hop, on the other hand, was produced using more advanced technology, such as synthesizers, sequencers, and digital audio workstations. This allowed for more complex and polished productions.
Fashion: Old school hip-hop fashion was heavily influenced by the street culture of the time. Artists often wore baggy clothing, sneakers, and gold jewelry.
New school hip-hop fashion, on the other hand, became more diverse and incorporated elements of high fashion, streetwear, and sportswear. Artists began to experiment with different styles and trends.
Overall, new school hip-hop and old school hip-hop represent two distinct eras of hip-hop music with their own unique characteristics and styles. While they both share a common foundation, they have evolved in different directions over the years.