Welcome to the Massachusetts Hip-Hop Archive

Explore the Massachusetts Hip-Hop Archive and learn our work collecting and preserving hip-hop culture in the state

DJ Cruz rockin' a block party by Foster, PaceyUniversity of Massachusetts Boston, University Archives and Special Collections

The story of the Massachusetts Hip-Hop Archive

As we celebrate the 50th birthday of hip-hop, we seek to recognize how the global movement to archive the foundations of this culture is gaining momentum. This is the story of the Massachusetts Hip-Hop Archive at UMass Boston.

Ya can't beat da system (1984) by Yong-Pratt, StephanieUniversity of Massachusetts Boston, University Archives and Special Collections

Unearthing hip-hop history: The Leccos Lemma Collection

Get a glimpse into remarkable collection of artist demos and show tapes from the Leccos Lemma radio program, the founding contribution to the Mass. Hip-Hop Archive.

Faces of Racism (1990-03) by Coleman, BrianUniversity of Massachusetts Boston, University Archives and Special Collections

Boston Public Library: A hub for public celebration

Since the launch of the Massachusetts Hip-Hop Archive, we've collaborated with the Boston Public Library to provide a place for celebrating and discussing hip-hop's impact on the community.

Kayla Dennis at the "Show 'Em Whatcha Got" Mass. Memories Road Show: The Hip-Hop Edition (2018) by Dennis, KaylaUniversity of Massachusetts Boston, University Archives and Special Collections

Empowering young people: The Anti-Racist Youth Media Program

Discover more as we highlight the anti-racist youth media program that harnesses hip-hop to empower and inspire the next generation.

Dana Sequeira at the "Show 'Em Whatcha Got" Mass. Memories Road Show: The Hip-Hop Edition (2018) by Sequeira, Dana; DJ RasheedUniversity of Massachusetts Boston, University Archives and Special Collections

Show 'Em Whatcha Got: Showcasing local hip-hop talent

Take a look at materials collected as part of the Show’Em Whatcha Got Mass. Memories Road Show event in 2018. We worked with members of the hip-hop community to collect and preserve their stories and this event has grown an annual event every November.

Hanging on School Street (1987-05) by Cuellar, CharlesUniversity of Massachusetts Boston, University Archives and Special Collections

Looking ahead: Expanding our reach

Look into the future of the Massachusetts Hip-Hop Archive and its mission to continually expand and enrich its collection.

Prez Leanski--Floorlords crew jacket by Montalvo, DashUniversity of Massachusetts Boston, University Archives and Special Collections

Collections to look forward to: Robin Radin photos

Take a look at Rodin Radin's 1980s photos featuring Massachusetts Rock Against Racism members and artists like the Floorlords, among others.

First Floorlords with b-girls (1995) by Matos, Yhinny; LadeeBugUniversity of Massachusetts Boston, University Archives and Special Collections

Collections to look forward to: Lou Cove photos

Take a look at the Floorlords at Faneuil Hall ca. 1983.

Explore the Massachusetts Hip-Hop Archive, a treasure trove of hip-hop history and inspiration, waiting to enrich your mind with its vast collection of resources. Unleash your passion for hip-hop culture and dive into this immersive experience.

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The story featured may in some cases have been created by an independent third party and may not always represent the views of the institutions, listed below, who have supplied the content.
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