In the native tongue of hip-hop heads, the notion of the Four Elements is as familiar as the boom-bap of an 808 drum machine. Allow us this quick primer for those who may be less familiar. Hip-hop culture is composed of four distinct disciplines, or elements, that together make up a rich and diverse culture: Breakdancers (b-boys), DJs, emcees and graffiti artists, and they created a foundation that's held generations of heads afloat since the inception of the genre in 1970s New York City.

These are not only immutable but a source of pride for all practitioners of the art. These elements have galvanized communities and, perhaps more than any other type of music, provided an outlet for the underprivileged. "Hip-hop changed my life" is a chorus heard by anybody close to the movement. It empowers those who live it, those who are told by outsiders that what they do isn't art or isn't worthwhile.

Brought to you by local skateboard shop/record store/street supply depot Rec Shop and hip-hop promotion/multimedia company Poor Vida, The Elements of Hip-Hop celebrates its third year at the Green Elephant. The all-day event is our local underground's answer to the summer festival game and is one of the most ambitious and unique affairs Dallas has to offer. The extravaganza will feature two stages with more than 40 live hip-hop performances (Awkquarius, Playdough, the Mohicans, Brain Gang and DFW Cypher are but a few of the acts), a few live bands, b-boy and b-girl battles, turntable showcases and live graffiti art.

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