New York Puerto Ricans have been an integral part of hip hop culture since day one: from 1970s pioneers like Rock Steady Crew's Jo-Jo, to recent rap mega-stars Big Punisher (R.I.P.) and Angie Martinez. Yet, Puerto Rican participation and contributions to hip hop have often been downplayed and even completely ignored. And when their presence has been acknowledged, it has frequently been misinterpreted as a defection from Puerto Rican culture and identity, into the African American camp. But nothing could be further from the truth. Through hip hop, Puerto Ricans have simply stretched the boundaries of Puerto Ricanness and latinidad.

'...painstaking research and original reporting.' - Publishers Weekly

'Rivera's style, craft, and depth make this pioneering yet thoroughly accessible work a commendable addition...' - Bill Pierarski, Library Journal

'Author Raquel Rivera explains the significance of Nuyorican and Latin influences throughout the history of hip-hop music and culture.' - The Source

'...explains and delineates the cross-fertilization of one of America's most controversial and dynamic music forms...' - Norman Kelley, New York Press

'...Rivera shines a light on the lesser-known but just as vital hip hop artists...New York Ricans.' - Teresa Talerico, Tinta Latina

'...explores the identity dynamics of New York's Puerto Ricans, struggling to find their rightful place...' - Dinorah Nieves, Urban Latino

'...makes a noteworthy statement in the chapters of the Nuyorican Diaspora.' - Aurora Flores, VIVA Magazine / New York Daily News