The birth of hip-hop traces back to August 11, 1973, when DJ Kool Herc showcased his innovative technique of creating continuous break-beats by skillfully using two turntables at a party in a rec room on Sedgwick Ave in the Bronx. On the 50th anniversary of this significant event, a remarkable concert called “Hip Hop 50 Live” was held at Yankee Stadium, located just a mile and a half away, to pay tribute to the genre. The concert featured legendary artists such as Run-DMC, Slick Rick, Ice Cube, Snoop Dogg, Lil’ Kim, and Nas. DJ Kool Herc himself, now 68 years old, also graced the stage to accept a well-deserved award.
Before the concert, the atmosphere outside the stadium was filled with fans who cherished the sounds of the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s. Couples, in their middle age, wearing matching Adidas track suits, arrived for a perfect date night. A man walked down the promenade carrying a boombox, adorned with a stylish Kangol hat. Street vendors sold pins featuring influential artists like Biz Markie and The Notorious B.I.G. Opposite the stadium, a street musician skillfully performed Tupac Shakur hits, while an in-line skater mesmerized the crowd with impressive basketball tricks. Alongside a subway entrance, an 8-year-old rapper named Hetep BarBoy, accompanied by his father, sold copies of his album on CD, expressing his preference for old-school hip-hop and drawing inspiration from Rakim’s positive and meaningful messages.
In the following edited interviews, attendees shared their reflections on the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, with some reminiscing about witnessing the iconic park jams and parties that defined the genre’s early years.
Which do you prefer: old-school hip-hop or new-school? Personally, I am a dedicated old-school hip-hop enthusiast. I have vivid memories of attending rap battles in the parks. In those days, hip-hop emerged from the streets and required lyrical excellence. If you couldn’t deliver with impeccable flow, you simply couldn’t make the cut. Nowadays, I feel like having something meaningful to say is often overlooked. Back then, your flow had to be flawless; it was everything.
Who is your old-school hero? Big Daddy Kane was the crown prince of hip-hop in those days. His lyrical flow was absolutely mind-blowing, and his style was undeniably fly. There was simply no one who could match him.
Which old-school hero are you here to see? Tonight, I am most excited to see Ice Cube. In my opinion, he represents the rebirth of hip-hop. However, I wouldn’t call artists like him “old-school.” I prefer the term “true-school” to acknowledge their enduring influence and significance.
What is a pivotal moment in hip-hop history for you? The public access television show “Video Music Box” played a crucial role in fostering hip-hop’s growth during the 1980s. It served as a platform for all the founding fathers of the genre to showcase their talent and connect with a wider audience.
Old-school or new? As a Bronx native who witnessed the birth of hip-hop, my heart belongs to the old-school. I was present at those iconic parties on Sedgwick Avenue, where I had the honor of witnessing the Cold Crush Brothers and Afrika Bambaataa perform. This goes way back for me. It’s incredible to witness how hip-hop has evolved into a global phenomenon. However, during my childhood, it was all about enjoying ourselves in the park. It wasn’t about material possessions or wealth.
Do you ever boast about witnessing the birth of hip-hop? Occasionally, I share with young people that I was present at the beginning of this movement. Sadly, it often falls on deaf ears, as they fail to grasp the significance. But this kind of response is also part of hip-hop’s nature, as it is a genre that will always evolve from its roots.
Old-school or new? To me, it will always be about the originals like Melle Mel, the Sugarhill Gang, and Kurtis Blow. They laid the foundation for hip-hop. In the past, hip-hop was about wholesomeness and enjoyment. I struggle to understand its current direction. Grandmaster Flash positively impacted the youth through his music. Old-school rap focused on community and our roots, and it truly transformed our lives.
What is a significant moment in hip-hop history for you? I still vividly remember the first time I heard “Rapper’s Delight” by the Sugarhill Gang while riding in a car with my friends. It was a game-changing experience.
Old-school or new? I absolutely love the old-school era. It feels like the new school is fixated on all the wrong aspects such as flaunting wealth through jewelry and expensive cars. Grandmaster Flash truly connected with the younger generation in a meaningful way. Old-school rap revolved around our community and our shared experiences, and it had a profound influence on our lives.
Who is your old-school hero? Snoop Dogg is my ultimate old-school hero. When he and Dr. Dre released “The Chronic,” it shook the world and set the tone for many artists to follow their style.
What is a significant moment in hip-hop history for you? An artist who deserves more recognition is Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam. Her hit song “Can You Feel the Beat” was irresistible, making everyone want to sing and dance along when it first came out.
Who are you excited to see tonight? I am here to see them all. Tonight is an opportunity to witness the history of hip-hop. It’s like a music education for me.
In conclusion, the 50th anniversary celebration of hip-hop brought together fans who cherished the sounds of the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s. Attendees shared their experiences and memories from the early days of hip-hop, reminiscing about park jams and the influential figures who shaped the genre. The concert at Yankee Stadium served as a testament to the enduring impact of hip-hop and its journey from humble beginnings to a global influence.
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