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| '''Ghettoblaster''', a term that can be considered insulting or complimentary depending on the context, is a portable ] system capable of playing ]s or recorded ] at relatively high volume. Synonyms include '''boombox'''. | '''Ghettoblaster''', a term that can be considered insulting or complimentary depending on the context, is a portable ] system capable of playing ]s or recorded ] at relatively high volume. Synonyms include '''boombox'''. | ||
| The word ''ghettoblaster'' originated in the ], apparently reflecting the belief that such systems are popular in ]s, especially those populated by ]. | The word ''ghettoblaster'' originated in the ], apparently reflecting the belief that such systems are popular in ]s, especially those populated by ]. | ||
| The term carries a connotation of power and disregard of social rules, shown in the ability to ''blast'' music to overwhelm those around you, as portrayed in the film '']'' by ] ]. Dispute over a ghettoblaster was a central role in that movie's culminating riot. | The term carries a connotation of power and disregard of social rules, shown in the ability to ''blast'' music to overwhelm those around you, as portrayed in the film '']'' by ] ]. Dispute over a ghettoblaster was a central role in that movie's culminating riot. | ||
Revision as of 17:06, 1 May 2005
Ghettoblaster, a term that can be considered insulting or complimentary depending on the context, is a portable stereo system capable of playing radio stations or recorded music at relatively high volume. Synonyms include boombox.
The word ghettoblaster originated in the U.S., apparently reflecting the belief that such systems are popular in poor inner-city neighborhoods, especially those populated by black Americans.
The term carries a connotation of power and disregard of social rules, shown in the ability to blast music to overwhelm those around you, as portrayed in the film Do the Right Thing by director Spike Lee. Dispute over a ghettoblaster was a central role in that movie's culminating riot.
The word is racially inflammatory in some circumstances but has also been embraced as a term of black, urban pride—and, like many such terms, has been adopted by parts of the non-black American community. It is used as the name of at least one magazine and one recording company, and is also a popular stereotype element typically associated with Hip-hop, Rap, African American culture, 70s and 80s culture, Breakdance and even the center of some (slightly racist) jokes.