Kurtis Blow

Signed to Mercury Records in 1979, Kurtis Blow became one of the first solo hip-hop artists to break through commercially, at a moment when almost nobody believed a major label had any use for rap. His single 'Christmas Rappin'' was among the earliest rap records put out by a major, proof that hip-hop didn't need to stay confined to independent operations like Sugar Hill.

The full story is in Early New York Hip-Hop.

At a glance

Active

1979–present

From

Harlem, New York

Listening guide track

“The Breaks”

Listen

In the Early New York Hip-Hop listening guide: “The Breaks”

In the issues

• 012
  Early New York Hip-Hop

  Supporting cast · 1973-1986 · Members

  Early New York Hip-Hop is a music scene from New York City, USA, 1973–1986. Its principal artists include DJ Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash, Afrika Bambaataa and Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five. This issue covers 9 essential albums and 13 dated events.

Terms

MC

A performer who raps or chants rhythmically over music, often hosting a set by hyping the crowd, introducing tracks, or delivering lyrics.