Nels Abbey is a journalist based in London, United Kingdom.

Hip-hop gave us Public Enemy, Lauryn Hill, Kendrick Lamar: after 50 years, this music demands proper respect

11 Aug 2023  |  the Guardian  |  English  |  Hip-hop

Hip-hop, born in 1973, has evolved into a powerful cultural force, shaping social consciousness and providing a platform for marginalized voices. While often criticized for its commercial excesses, hip-hop has been instrumental in challenging systemic injustices and promoting narratives of empowerment. Artists like Public Enemy, Lauryn Hill, and Kendrick Lamar have used their music to address issues such as racism, misogyny, and economic inequality. The genre's influence extends globally, impacting communities from New York to Mogadishu, and continues to inspire progressive change and cultural dialogue.

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Hip-hop Cultural Influence Social Change

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Watch these 9 Arab rappers feature in Anghami's first-ever hip-hop cypher

04 Oct 2023  |  StepFeed  |  English  |  Hip-Hop

Anghami, the leading music streaming platform in the Middle East, launched its first-ever English/Arabic hip-hop cypher featuring nine renowned Arab rappers and artists. Directed by Hassane Dennaoui, aka Big Hass, the cypher aims to highlight the growing role of hip-hop in the region. The track, produced by Sandhill and featuring DJ Lethal Skillz' scratching, showcases the diversity and richness of Arab culture. The music video was shot in nine different cities and edited by Raed Al Murish. Anghami, founded by Eddy Maroun and Elie Habib, continues to support and nurture the regional music scene, recognizing hip-hop as a significant genre.

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Hip-Hop Music Arab Culture

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PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
_ senior social media Editor
_ researcher...
_ translator
_ video journalist
_ Document film researcher, director, Editor

Amos Batisayi is a journalist based in Gweru, Zimbabwe. He is a qualified  Zimbabwean journalist with six years experience. He has  been writing for Alpha Media Holdings the publishers for for NewsDay, Zimbabwe Independent and The Standard  and have been a reporter since 2017

He is passionate ...

216 Whisky calls for higher powers to succeed

06 Jun 2024  |  Southern Eye  |  English  |  Hip-hop

Rising hip-hop artist Ismael Whisky, known as 216 Whisky, discusses his latest project 'Sango', a hip-hop afrofusion track featuring Maje Afrika. The song explores themes of spirituality and the need for a higher power to overcome evil spirits, using creative imagery to convey its message. Whisky expresses hope for the song's success on digital platforms, following previous collaborations with artists like Mr Attention, Wedande, and Selmor Mtukudzi.

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Hip-hop Music Spirituality

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Dounard Bondo is a writer based in Liberia. His writing usually covers politics, policy, Law and entertainment. He also writes short stories. He has bylines in BBC, Euronews, Quartz, Trt World, TheAfrican Report, Sahelien, Native Magazine etc.

CO.Z Kamikazee: The Hip-Hop OG

01 Oct 2023  |  theecho.substack.com  |  English  |  Hip-Hop

CO.Z Kamikazee, a prominent figure in the Liberian Hip-hop scene, has over a decade of experience in music. Growing up between Liberia and the U.S., he began his music career with the group AKH. After returning to Liberia in 2009, he continued to make influential music, including his notable 'The Geez' series. CO.Z emphasizes the importance of understanding the business side of music to maximize revenue and advocates for the evolution of Hip-hop by infusing it with local culture. He views storytelling as a crucial element of Hip-hop and aims to leave a legacy of inspirational music.

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Hip-Hop Liberian Music Music Industry

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Justin Bong-Kwan is a writer and commentator based in Hong Kong. For more information, please visit ****.

Hop Gains Popularity in Hong Kong Amid Pro

01 Oct 2023  |  www.vice.com  |  English  |  Hip-Hop

Hip-hop is gaining popularity in Hong Kong, particularly among the youth, as a form of expression amid ongoing pro-democracy protests. Artists like Txmiyama and JB use their music to address socio-economic issues and criticize government and police actions. The genre has become a unifying force for young Hongkongers, providing a platform for community-building and articulating shared frustrations. Despite the political turmoil, the hip-hop scene has thrived, offering a voice to the marginalized youth.

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Hip-Hop Youth Protests Socioeconomic Issues

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I'm a multimedia journalist based in Barcelona, Spain, with over 4 years of experience in article writing, in-depth research, live broadcasting, and video production. I write and produce content on a variety of topics ranging from politics and international affairs to popular culture and women's ...

Sweden’s immigrant hip-hop stars are redefining Swedishness

02 Sept 2024  |  Hyphen  |  English  |  Hip-Hop

Sweden's hip-hop scene, dominated by artists with immigrant backgrounds, is reshaping the country's cultural identity. These artists, often from marginalized neighborhoods, use music to bridge Swedish and immigrant cultures, challenging traditional notions of Swedishness. Despite the rise of far-right politics and anti-Muslim sentiment, artists like Hoosam and Fatima Jelassi continue to influence Swedish culture, blending languages and experiences from diverse backgrounds. The genre's evolution reflects broader societal changes, highlighting the role of immigrant communities in redefining Swedish popular culture.

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Hip-Hop Immigrant Culture Swedish Society

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Frederic is a French-Israeli independent TV journalist, director & producer since 1998. Worked for (TLI)(Local Independent Television), TFJ (French Jewish Television), CBC TV/Radio, The Baltic Times, The Epoch Times, The Times of Israel *** Important Note to Producers & Broadcasters***My policy is ...

When Hip-Hop meets the Middle-East: r(E)volution!

23 Sept 2024  |  blogs.timesofisrael.com  |  English  |  Hip-Hop

The article explores the intersection of hip-hop and Middle Eastern music, highlighting the influence of Jewish rappers and Israeli hip-hop artists. It discusses the contributions of artists like Drake, Doja Cat, Mac Miller, and Nissim Black, as well as Israeli groups such as Hadag Nahash and Shabak Samech. The piece also covers the impact of individual artists like Sagol 59, Ness & Stilla, Dudu Faruk, Subliminal, Nechi Nech, Omer Adam, Jasmine Moallem, Osher Cohen, and Noa Kirel. These artists blend various musical styles, addressing social and political themes, and reflecting the complexities of Israeli society. The article emphasizes the role of hip-hop as a medium for cultural dialogue and expression in Israel.

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Hip-Hop Middle Eastern Music Cultural Influence

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Doaa Farid is a Cairo-based journalist covering economy and business since 2013. Farid was a staff business reporter at Egypt's English-language newspaper the Daily News Egypt for three years. In early 2016, Farid was accepted to take part in a Thomson Reuters Foundation programme, named 'Wealth of ...

Outdoor season in UAE and Arabic hip-hop

28 Sept 2023  |  The National  |  English  |  Arabic Hip-Hop

Hosts Enas Refaei and Farah Andrews discuss activities for the long weekend in the UAE, coinciding with the Prophet Mohammed's birthday and the reopening of outdoor activities like Hatta Wadi Hub. They also cover the end of the Hollywood writers strike, anticipated changes, and upcoming shows. Enas shares her passion for hip-hop, celebrating its 50th anniversary, and highlights favorite Arab hip-hop artists. Arts and Culture reporter Maan Jalal lists creative events, including Alserkal Lates and Fernando Botero's exhibition at Atlantis The Royal.

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Arabic Hip-Hop Outdoor Activities Hollywood Writers Strike Cultural Events

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Welcome to Rhymistan, the Launchpad for Pakistan’s Exploding Hip-Hop Scene

31 Jul 2018  |  www.vice.com  |  English  |  Hip-Hop Scene

Rhymistan, Pakistan's largest homegrown hip-hop event, is gaining momentum as a cultural movement, attracting diverse artists and audiences. Co-founded by Hassan Amin, the event provides a platform for emerging and established hip-hop artists, including Sunny Khan Durrani, who uses his music to challenge religious extremism. Despite societal challenges, Rhymistan aims to expand beyond Lahore, promoting a blend of American and Pakistani hip-hop culture. The event highlights the potential for hip-hop to address social issues and foster cultural expression in Pakistan.

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Hip-Hop Scene Cultural Movement Music

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David Gonzalez specialize in video, photography, and graphics. Based in Miami, United States of America.

From Duke Ellington to Public Enemy: Images of Hip-Hop and Its Cultural Roots

26 Jul 2018  |  www.nytimes.com  |  English  |  Hip-Hop Culture

Hip-hop culture, which emerged in the 1970s in the South Bronx, was initially dismissed by skeptics but has since gained global appeal. The culture, characterized by its innovative music, visual art, clothing, and dance, is celebrated in the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture's exhibition 'Represent: Hip-Hop Photography.' Curator Rhea Combs emphasizes the historical context of hip-hop, linking it to a broader tradition of African-American cultural expression from Duke Ellington to Public Enemy.

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Hip-Hop Culture Music History African-American Culture

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Peony Hirwani is an accomplished journalist, explorer, traveller, and speaker. Living in three completely different parts and cultures of this world; Europe, the Middle East, and Asia in the past four years, Hirwani works to capture and write about stories that inspire and matter in this day and ...

The PropheC Gets Real with ‘The Remedy’

13 Dec 2024  |  rollingstoneindia.com  |  English  |  Hip-Hop

The PropheC, a musician from Calgary, has released his latest album 'The Remedy' through Mass Appeal, exploring the highs and lows of relationships. His music, a blend of Indian classical vocals with contemporary hip-hop and pop, has gained international acclaim, with hits like 'Kina Chir' and performances in cities like Delhi and New York. The PropheC reflects on his journey from creating music in his basement to achieving global recognition, emphasizing the importance of staying true to his roots. He plans to continue experimenting with his sound while maintaining his classic style.

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Hip-Hop Music Indian Music

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Muheet Ul Islam is a journalist and filmmaker who reports from the Indian-administered Kashmir.  His expertise lies in narrative journalism, honed at the Central University of Kashmir.

Muheet's work transcends borders, gaining recognition from a vast network of international media outlets.  ...

Kashmir's Female Rappers Fight Misogyny with Music

31 Aug 2023  |  euronews  |  English  |  Hip-Hop in Kashmir

The article by Muheet Ul Islam and Nawsheena Mushtaq for Euronews Culture highlights the emergence of female hip-hop artists in the Indian side of Kashmir. It focuses on the stories of several women, including Mehak Ashraf (Menime), Anam Nassir (Rapper Annie), and Iqra Nissar (Yung Illa), who have overcome societal challenges and misogyny to express themselves and their struggles through rap. The article discusses the influence of male rappers like Eminem and local artist MC Kash, as well as the support from figures like Ahmer Jawed. Despite facing criticism for promoting 'vulgarity and western culture,' these women are determined to use hip-hop as a medium for storytelling and to address issues like sexual violence. The article also touches on the historical context of Kashmir's conflict and the role of music in social change.

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Hip-Hop in Kashmir Music Culture Women's Empowerment

Allison Keyes is an award-winning multi-media journalist with more than 25 years of experience. Formerly a substitute host and National Desk reporter for NPR, Keyes works both at CBS News Radio and the digital arm of Smithsonian Magazine. Her more than 20 journalism awards are from organizations ...

The Smithsonian Is Creating a Dope Hip-Hop Anthology

17 Oct 2017  |  The Root  |  English  |  Hip-Hop

The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, in collaboration with Smithsonian Folkways Recordings and the hip-hop community, is creating the Smithsonian Anthology of Hip-Hop and Rap. This project aims to document the history and cultural impact of hip-hop through a box-set compilation featuring over 120 tracks, a 300-page book, and essays by artists and scholars. The anthology is seen as a significant cultural milestone, capturing the evolution of hip-hop from its early days to its global influence. MC Lyte and other notable figures highlight the importance of this anthology in preserving the legacy and social impact of hip-hop, contrasting it with the more entertainment-focused mainstream hip-hop of today.

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Hip-Hop Music History Cultural Impact

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Christopher Lee is a journalist based in London, United Kingdom. Former BBC Defence Correspondent, Arms Control, Moscow Correspondent and Royal Correspondent. Fellow in Contemporary History Emmanuel College Cambridge. Defence Adviser to British Forces Broadcasting Service. Defence & Foreign Affairs ...

The Fierce, Flourishing World of Battle Rap

14 Jun 2023  |  www.nytimes.com  |  English  |  Hip-Hop Culture

In Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, the Trap NY, a battle rap league founded by Tyrell Reid (No Mercy), hosts events in a modest wellness center. Battle rap, an art form, sport, and growing industry, is thriving with leagues like the Ultimate Rap League, King of the Dot, and Rare Breed Entertainment, which host national events and pay top dollar to engaging M.C.s. The scene is vibrant and multilayered, far beyond the depiction in the movie '8 Mile'.

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Hip-Hop Culture Battle Rap

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Sarah MacDonald is a journalist based in Saskatoon, Canada.

jaycouldneverdie Sings the Seasonal Blues on “Blueberry Love”

01 Oct 2023  |  www.vice.com  |  English  |  Hip-Hop

Toronto's music scene, often characterized by its cold and distant beats, finds a new voice in 19-year-old singer jaycouldneverdie. Her latest single, 'Blueberry Love,' directed by Devo Thomas and Genelle Cruz, explores the pain and complexity of love through a raw and minimalistic video. The artist, who has battled depression, uses her music to convey hope and resilience. With her first EP released in November, jaycouldneverdie is already working on new material, promising a different sound and more 'bops' in the future.

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Hip-Hop Music R&B

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Savin Mattozzi is a journalist based in Naples, Italy. He covers history, culture and politics in southern Italy and the Mediterranean region. His work has been featured in National Geographic, Al Jazeera, Euronews, Are We Europe and Hyphen among others.

50 Years of hip-hop: A chronological look at the genre’s essential records

13 Aug 2023  |  www.euronews.com  |  English  |  Hip-Hop

Hip-hop celebrated its 50th anniversary, evolving from a niche movement in New York to a global cultural phenomenon. Euronews Culture compiled a chronological list of essential hip-hop albums that shaped the genre, highlighting influential records from artists like The Sugarhill Gang, Run-DMC, Public Enemy, N.W.A, Beastie Boys, De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest, MC Solaar, Dr. Dre, Wu-Tang Clan, Nas, The Fugees, IAM, Notorious B.I.G., Lauryn Hill, Eminem, OutKast, Missy Elliott, Madvillain, J Dilla, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, Run The Jewels, and Little Simz. These albums reflect the genre's rich history, cultural impact, and ongoing innovation.

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Hip-Hop Music History Cultural Impact

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Onai Mushava is a journalist and creative writer based in Harare, Zimbabwe. He was awarded the National Arts Merit Award (NAMA) for Outstanding Fiction Book and nominated as Outstanding Print Journalist in 2018 and for the inaugural Outstanding Poetry Book prize in 2020. Senior writer for This Is ...

Kendrick Lamar: The Black Mecca and Hip-Hop Pan-Africanism

31 May 2022  |  thisisafrica.me  |  English  |  Rap and Hip-Hop

The article discusses the connection between African heritage and mainstream rap, highlighting the recent visit of Kendrick Lamar to Ghana as part of the country's tourism and repatriation campaign, Beyond the Return. It reflects on the Pan-Africanist themes in rap music, citing examples from artists like Nas, Lauryn Hill, and Jidenna, who have expressed a longing for Africa as a place of peace and belonging, contrasting with the discrimination faced by black people in the U.S. The article also touches on the historical and cultural ties between Africa and its diaspora, the portrayal of Africa in music, and the need for a structural as well as spiritual Pan-Africanism. It concludes by considering the impact of Kendrick Lamar's previous visit to South Africa on his music and the potential influence of his current visit to Ghana on future works.

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Rap and Hip-Hop Music Culture Pan-Africanism African Diaspora

Max Pringle is a journalist based in San Francisco, CA, United States. I've produced thousands of long form and spot radio packages; hosted and produced public affairs programs and written dozens of articles for print and online publications. That means I'm able to step in, research and write ...

Elevate (Single)

05 Mar 2022  |  WORDPLAY  |  English  |  Hip-hop

US-based Hip-hop group Barbaydose, from California's Bay Area, releases their first single of 2022 titled 'Elevate'. The group, consisting of Hiright, Bsidez, and J.MAL, aims to create unique and exciting music by blending various sounds from their solo careers. 'Elevate' features classic beats and samples from Hiright, along with honest lyrics about growth and self-manifestation.

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Hip-hop Music

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Stan Rastogi is a journalist based in Navi Mumbai, India.

Martian Vs Thyself: A Conversation with Mr.A the Martian

27 Jan 2019  |  The Spill Magazine  |  English  |  Hip-Hop and Rap

The article is an interview with Mr.A the Martian, a 22-year-old rapper from Brampton, Ontario, whose real name is Marvin Appiahene-Afriyie. The discussion revolves around his latest project, 'Martian Vs. Thyself', which he describes as a therapeutic session that deals with his personal struggles. Mr.A emphasizes that the album is a reflection of his mental process and how he copes with life and love. He also talks about his creative process, the importance of storytelling in his music, and the significance of the album art. The article touches on the broader theme of mental health awareness in the hip-hop community and Mr.A's desire to contribute to this conversation. He outlines his aspirations for the future, including collaborating with renowned artists, exploring new genres, and headlining his own tour. The article concludes by anticipating a promising year ahead for Mr.A, with the release of his new album and the potential growth of his career.

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Hip-Hop and Rap Music Mental Health

Paula Rogo is a journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya.

Ebrahim Soul’o is Bringing Alternative Hip-Hop to the Spotlight in Uganda

01 Jul 2024  |  www.okayafrica.com  |  English  |  Alternative Hip-Hop

Ebrahim Soul’o, a rising star in Uganda's music scene, is gaining attention for his unique style of 'self-help music' within the alternative hip-hop genre. He recently performed for the second time at the Blankets & Wine Festival in Kampala, showcasing his growing influence in the Ugandan music industry.

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Alternative Hip-Hop Music

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25 year old Journalism graduate with 8 years combined experience in print, TV and radio with some experience in public relations and social media marketing. 

I am presently working in Kingston, Jamaica as a public relations consultant and radio producer/reporter/announcer.

I'm competent in ...

NBA YoungBoy Admit He Is Not Big On Fatherhood Despite 11 Children

08 Jan 2024  |  urbanislandz.com  |  English  |  Hip-Hop

NBA YoungBoy faces criticism after admitting in an interview that he is not enthusiastic about fatherhood despite having 11 children. The rapper, who became a father at 16, has children with multiple women, with some living with him and his wife, Jazlyn Mychelle, in Utah. During the interview, he revealed his struggles with home detention and his long-term smoking habit. His comments sparked online backlash, with many questioning his commitment to his children.

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Hip-Hop Fatherhood Celebrity

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Gladstone H Taylor is an author/journalist living and operating out of the creative industries of Kingston, Jamaica. He has been writing professionally for over eight years. He’s reported on the environment, culture, music, film, and tech through platforms such as Mongabay, The Fader, Sole DxB, ...

How Bakersteez is pushing Jamaican rap to new heights

04 Apr 2019  |  www.thefader.com  |  English  |  Hip-Hop

The article discusses the cultural exchange between America and Jamaica, particularly in the realm of music and entertainment. It traces the history of Caribbean migration to the U.S. and highlights the influence of Jamaican DJ Kool Herc in the creation of hip-hop. The article also mentions Bob Marley's contribution to music by blending American funk and soul with reggae. Focusing on the current music scene, it introduces Bakersteez, an artist who embodies the fusion of Jamaican and American culture in his music. Bakersteez, born Daniel Simpson, moved from Jamaica to Florida at a young age and later returned to Jamaica, bringing with him a mix of American and Jamaican influences that have propelled him to stardom.

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Hip-Hop Cultural Exchange Music and Entertainment Dancehall

Jonathan Walfisz is a journalist based in London, United Kingdom. I am a regular writer for Euronews Culture and have previously written for Always Time for Theatre and World Trademark Review.

EXIT Festival 2023: Celebrating 50 Years of Hip-Hop

10 Jul 2023  |  euronews  |  English  |  Hip-Hop Music

The article provides a comprehensive review of Serbia's EXIT Festival, which celebrated the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. The festival featured a mix of genres, including drum n' bass, techno, punk, metal, and hip-hop. Highlights included performances by Viagra Boys, The Prodigy, Chase and Status, Amelie Lens, Nina Kraviz, Ben UFO, Epica, Skrillex, Eric Prydz, Sunshine, Sajsi MC, Mimi Mercedez, Sofi Tukker, Dry Cleaning, and Wu-Tang Clan. The festival took place in the Petrovaradin Fortress in Novi Sad and included various stages with different music styles. The journalist recounts the experience of attending the festival, from the early morning flights to the late-night sets, and provides insights into the performances and cultural significance of the event, particularly the strong presence of hip-hop and its resonance with the Serbian audience.

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Hip-Hop Music Music Festival Concert Reviews Music Genres Cultural Events

Todd Williams is a journalist based in Taipei City, Taiwan.

Happy birthday to Kurtis Blow, the original ‘King of Rap’

09 Aug 2019  |  Andscape  |  English  |  Hip-Hop History

Kurtis Blow, a pioneering figure in hip-hop, is celebrated for his significant contributions to the genre as it turns 40. Known as the first rapper to sign with a major label, Blow's mainstream success paved the way for future artists. Despite hip-hop's historical importance, early artists like Blow often lack the recognition given to rock and soul legends. Blow's recent health scare highlights the need to honor these pioneers. The article advocates for greater appreciation of hip-hop's legacy and its founding figures, suggesting tributes and recognition akin to other music legends.

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Hip-Hop History Kurtis Blow Music Legacy

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