The 5% Nation and Its Influences in Hip Hop
The 5% Nation, also known as the Nation of Gods and Earths, is a movement that emerged in the 1960s as an offshoot of the Nation of Islam. Founded by Clarence 13X in Harlem, the 5% Nation promotes a unique spiritual and cultural philosophy that emphasizes self-knowledge, divine potential, and the importance of understanding one’s roots. Central to its teachings is the belief that 85% of the population is ignorant, 10% are the oppressors, and the remaining 5% are enlightened individuals who possess knowledge of the truth and strive to teach others. This powerful ideology has not only influenced its followers but has also permeated the fabric of hip hop culture, shaping the art form and its messages in profound ways.
The World’s Famous Supreme Team which consists of Se’ Divine The Mastermind & Jus Allah The Super Star are widely credited as being among the first Mc’s to inject 5% ideology into their music. On their WHBI radio show World Famous interacted with members of the 5% live on air and they broadcasted their rendition of “Allah & Justice” (Justice was Father Allah’s right-hand man) and “Allah & Justice” is a National Anthem of sorts for the 5% Nation.
The name Kane is superior to many people, it means King Asiatic Nobody’s Equal
– Somethin’ Funky – Big Daddy Kane 1987
The relationship between the 5% Nation and hip hop is deeply intertwined, particularly in the genre’s inception and growth during the late 1970s and 1980s. Many early hip hop artists, notably those emerging from New York City’s urban landscape, were significantly impacted by the socio-political climate and the teachings of the 5% Nation. Rappers like Rakim, who was a member of the 5% Nation, infused his lyrical content with elements of this philosophy. His duo with DJ Eric B, responsible for iconic tracks such as “Paid in Full” and “Follow the Leader,” marked a significant shift in rap lyricism, elevating it to a more sophisticated, multi-layered art form.
Similarly, Wu-Tang Clan, perhaps the most famous group representing 5% teachings, has been instrumental in popular culture. Members like RZA, GZA, and Inspectah Deck often interweaved references to the 5% Nation in their verses, utilizing symbolism and terminology from the faith. Their debut album, “Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers),” showcases a rich tapestry of metaphors, references to the Supreme Mathematics, and philosophical insights that invite listeners to explore deeper meanings behind their rhymes. Tracks like “C.R.E.A.M.” provide not only a commentary on their harsh realities but also embody the struggle for greater understanding and enlightenment.
Notably, the influence of the 5% Nation extends beyond specific crews or individuals; the teachings are evident across a broad spectrum of hip hop artists. Nas, known for his intricate storytelling and profound social commentary, references 5% principles in songs like “Knowledge Is Power” and “I Gave You Power.” His ability to articulate the struggles faced by marginalized communities often aligns with the 5% ethos of empowerment and self-awareness. Moreover, KRS-One, a pioneering figure in hip hop, incorporates the spiritual versus the secular dialogue central to 5% teachings into his music and lectures, advocating for social change through education and consciousness.
“I never felt that mathematics should have been a part of rap music. I put math in my music because it’s who I am. I am God Justice Scientific Allah and I am God. I stopped putting math in my rhymes because it started becoming the popular thing to do. I don’t care if your whole family is 5% and you eat, breathe and sleep with the Gods – if you’re not 5% you have no business putting math in your rhymes”. Just Ice (who says that his actual righteous name is Justice and Just Ice is strictly for entertainment) was one of the first MC’s to open and close his songs with what he calls the universal greeting for civilized people – Peace. JUST ICE
Contemporary artists have also continued to explore these themes. J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar, while not formally associated with the 5% Nation, resonate with its philosophy of self-awareness, empowerment, and social justice. Their work underlines the necessity of understanding history and identity, harkening back to the fundamental beliefs of the 5%. J. Cole’s “Fire Squad” critiques cultural appropriation and challenges artists to reclaim their narratives, echoing the very essence of the 5% Nation’s mission to enlighten and educate.
In addition to lyrical content, the 5% Nation’s cultural influence can be seen visually in hip hop music videos. The symbolism of the 5% Nation, from the daisy with a hand sign to the use of the number “5” in various forms, has been creatively adapted by numerous artists. Music videos often depict themes of knowledge vs. ignorance, struggle, and triumph – concepts that align with the Nation’s teachings. For example, in the video for “Lyrical Miracle,” the incorporation of 5% symbolism serves as a reminder of the power of knowledge and the legacy of those who have come before.*p
The intersection of the 5% Nation and hip hop underscores a broader narrative of resistance, knowledge, and empowerment in a genre that has consistently pushed against societal boundaries. The rich, often esoteric teachings of the 5% Nation resonate with the experiences and struggles of many artists and communities within hip hop, crafting a narrative that inspires listeners to seek knowledge, embrace their heritage, and assert their identity.
“I take a thought around the world twice from knowledge born back to knowledge precise, across the desert that hot as the Arabian but they couldn’t cave me in ‘cus I’m the As-i-an” The Ghetto – Rakim 1990
As we delve deeper into the realms of hip hop and its evolution, it is crucial to recognize the profound impact that the 5% Nation has had on the music, the culture, and the movement towards self-awareness and enlightenment. The premise of understanding oneself as a divine entity endowed with the ability to shape one’s destiny remains a powerful motif in the lyrics, lives, and messages of countless artists today. The influence of the 5% Nation is not merely a historical footnote; it continues to enlighten and evoke a sense of purpose in a genre that has shaped global culture and continues to inspire generations. In essence, the 5% Nation has left an indelible mark on hip hop, not just as a style but as a philosophy of empowerment that champions the quest for knowledge and self-actualization amid adversity.
