Capstones
Graduation Date
Winter 12-19-2025
Grading Professor
Jeff Gage
Subject Concentration
Arts & Culture
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Abstract
New York City is dealing with gun violence and the contentious effects of drill rap on street culture. In the Bronx, a rising group of gospel drill musicians is trying to reclaim the genre's sound for a new purpose. My reported story investigates whether gospel drill can counter the violent undertones of mainstream drill music and features first-hand accounts of transformation from former gang members, a rapper-turned-preacher, and community leaders. The story examines whether gospel drill can address the violent associations that mainstream drill music has. In light of high-profile arrests, political backlash, and debates within hip-hop culture, this piece examines how faith-based drill artists are breaking stereotypes, telling different stories, and working to make it easier for a generation that traditional institutions often ignore to leave the streets.
Recommended Citation
Brownie, Tiara, "Can Gospel Drill Save The Bronx?" (2025). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/gj_etds/816
Photo Credit- Courtesy of Clifford Gray
