Can't Stop Won't Stop: A History of the Hip-Hop Generation by Jeff Chang

Hip-hop is now a global multi-billion pound industry. It has spawned superstars all across the world, as well as tie-in clothing lines, TV stations, film companies, and cosmetics lines. It even has its own sports, art style, and dialect. It is an all-encompassing lifestyle.

But where did hip-hop culture begin? Who created it? How did it become such a phenomenon?

Jeff Chang, an American journalist, has written the most comprehensive book on hip-hop to date. He introduces the major players who came up with the ideas that form the basic elements of the culture. He describes how it all began with social upheavals in Jamaica, the Bronx, the Black Belt of Long Island, and South Central LA. He not only provides a history of the music, but a fascinating insight into the social background of young Black America.

Stretching from the early 70s through to the present day, this is the definitive history of hip-hop. It will be essential reading for all DJs, B-Boys, MCs and anyone with an interest in American history.

Don't be misled; this is not just another rap book. Can't Stop Won't Stop is a potent political treatise, a glance at the 20th century through the social lens of hip-hop. Inflammatory, illuminating, and anything but myopic, the scope of Chang's work is awe-inspiring. - DJ Shadow

Jeff Chang has spent the last decade researching a vivid and fascinating book which should remain the definitive history for at least as long ... Finally, rap gets the definitive history it deserves - Q

Energetic and exhilarating ... There is a fearless sweep to this book. A distinct achievement - Daily Telegraph