




Hip-hop was happening everywhere, from apartments to the streets. Self-expression was not limited to just one space. This community enjoyed the impact music/dance had on them.

The Tunnel
The Tunnel was located on 220 12th Ave, New York, NY. It became one of the major clubs that hosted Hip Hop themed parties. Its popularity heightened as it became the central place to gather. Big-name artists like Jay-Z and Notorious B.I.G. were known to frequent this club. In 2001, the club closed, but its impact remains.
“You felt that it was such an important moment for hip-hop because we had never seen this before. We had never been in a club where [hip-hop] was playing on a consistent basis.”
– Valdes

Holcombe Rucker Park
Rucker Park, in Harlem, was known for bringing together the basketball community. Along with playing basketball, many gathered to share their love for hip hop. While games were happening, you would hear hip-hop music in the back. Today, it is being remembered as a national commemorative site.

Christopher ‘Notorious B.I.G.’ Wallace Way
This apartment building, or home to the renowned rapper B.I.G., was named in this way to remember this artist. He was one of the pioneers in the hip-hop movement. One of his songs even specifically mentions this apartment. This is one of the many landmarks that are named to honor this artist.