By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Since its inception, MTV2 has had various themes. However, the network has been primarily known for showing repeats of MTV programs. Last year, MTV2 was given an identity of its own when it was announced the network would focus on hip hop and rock. In the year since this announcement, MTV2 has lived up to this promise, with hip hop-themed programs and reruns of “Martin” and “The Wayans Bros.” to go along with it.
The biggest announcement from MTV2 came towards the end of last year, with the announcement of the return of “Yo! MTV Raps.” During the late 1980s and 1990s, the show became synomnyous with hip hop music and fans were outraged when it was cancelled by MTV. In 2008, in celebration of the twentieth anniversary of its premiere, MTV aired new episodes of the show for a week. Some held out hope the ratings would lead to them bringing the show back.
While the show did not return immediately, as many hoped, the show was recreated for future years. With “Yo! MTV Raps” returning this upcoming Sunday, MTV2 has a night of hip hop planned. The night will begin with an episode of “MTV2 Presents: Yo! MTV Raps Classic Cuts,” followed by MTV News’ special, “Hottest MCs in the Game IV,” hosted by Sway Calloway, and finally the “Sucker Free Countdown” will air, thus closing the night. “Yo! MTV Raps” will return with Sway Calloway as the host of the series, which broadcasts episodes for 30 minutes.
