Nicholas Monson4 Dec 2002

Fascinating that people in the US subscribe to the notion of an English gangsta culture. Ali G, what have you done for Britain's image? If there is a UK gangsta culture, it is synthetic - macho posturing derived entirely from Kingston, Jamaica, and American rap artists (and their followers). Yes, and the notion is promoted by cynical and greedy record labels. It is also funny to reflect on the image of "the mean streets of London" as if the UK capital was a sprawling Bronx. Parts of Lewisham and Southwark might fit that category but I still think London is better known for our palaces and our changing of the guard than our chewing of the ganga or however you like to ingest it. PK might be disappointed in his hunt for the criminal metropolis around Belgravia, Holland Park and Kensington. If he wants an adrenalin buzz he would be better off exploring Johannesburg or Soweto. By comparison the UK and US "gangstas" are just big girls' blouses.