“De la Calle a la Tarima": Batallas de Gallos y Cultura Hip-Hop en Bogotá

Abstract

The presented thesis addresses the cultural and social evolution of freestyle battles in Bogotá, highlighting their role within the hip hop community and their influence on urban youth. Employing a mixed methodology that combines qualitative and quantitative analysis, it examines the history, development, and significance of these verbal improvisation competitions, focusing on the battles of roosters as an emerging sociocultural phenomenon. It explores the transition of freestyle battles from their underground roots to their acceptance and popularization in the public sphere. The study details how freestyle events have created platforms for youth expression, facilitating constructive dialogue on social, political, and cultural issues. Additionally, the impact of social networks and digital platforms on the expansion and democratization of access to these competitions is analyzed. The research also addresses the various perceptions and stigmatizations associated with the hip hop movement and freestyle, discussing how participants and fans have worked to overcome prejudices and foster a deeper, more respectful understanding of this art form. The importance of freestyle battles as a means of empowerment and self-expression for youth is highlighted, providing a space for the development of communicative skills, creativity, and social critique. Finally, the thesis proposes recommendations for future research and institutional support for freestyle battles, emphasizing their value as a tool for social integration and alternative education. It concludes that the battles of roosters in Bogotá are not only a reflection of the city's cultural dynamics but also a significant catalyst for social change and youth inclusion.