From its beginnings circa 1979, to Sir Mix-a-lot’s “Posse on Broadway,” to Macklemore, Northwest hip hop has been informed by local history as well as the diversity that defined the scene.

A special presentation at the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, part of the ongoing Momentum Festival, will allow music lovers to discover the history behind not only the Northwest’s Grammy-winning rappers but also its world champion break dance crew, internationally read hip hop magazine, the local producers who collaborated with some of the biggest names in music, world-renowned clothing designers and the grassroots organizations dedicated to community service and education.

The special event is 7 p.m. Friday, April 13. “Emerald Street: Race, Class, Culture, and the History of Hip Hop” is led by author and professor Daudi Abe, who will explore the idea that hip hop is a living document of our region’s social and political movements, styles, energies, and ideologies, and how it embodies a unique sense of community.

The program is presented in collaboration with Humanities Washington, Space Craft and LibraryU, and is free to attend.

Donations will be accepted.

Reservations are encouraged. Visit www.biartmuseum.org to learn more.