Homosexuality in Hip Hop Explored in New Book
On May 13th the release of author and former MTV executive Terrance Dean's memoir "Hiding In Hip Hop:On The Down Low in the Entertainment Industry from Music to Hollywood", is sure to cause a firestorm of controversy and spark a discussion about hip-hop artists who have built careers on their hyper-masculine and thuggish image while secretly leading double lives.
Ironically, in an industry much like professional sports, hip-hop is homophobic yet homo-erotic at the same time. It is no secret that gays exist in every occupation in society and hip-hop is no exception.
So why hasn't a major hip-hop artist come out? There's obvious reasons that the majority of people whether gay or straight would understand, one being we live in an extremely homophobic society, although progress is being made.
For many gay mainstream hip-hop artists coming out is not an option, however, living on the down low is.
"Hiding In Hip-Hop" uncovers a hidden and well-known unspoken secret. Deep within the confines of
Hip-Hop is a prominent gay sub-culture. A world that industry insiders are keenly aware of, but choose to ignore.
According to Dean, "This book is filled with intrigue, sexy celebrity bed partners, abundance of drugs, and of course, the down low/gay men and celebrities in the entertainment industry.
This book is my voice, your voice, and many other voices of people who love Hip Hop, the black church, the black community, our families - our uncles, aunts, brothers, and sisters who are gay, or on the down low, says Dean.
You will find your own story within my story. Of course your jaws will drop. Most definitely you will laugh. You will certainly cry. And you will have outbursts. But, most importantly, you will think. It will create a dialogue and conversation so needed in our community, and world - Why are we afraid to talk about sex and sexuality in the black community? Why can't black gay men and women come "out" of the closet in entertainment?"
I have not read the book yet, but I'm looking forward to getting my hands on a copy. To pre-order Hiding in Hip Hop just click here. Keep your eyes open for an exclusive interview.
