Melle Mel

Born Melvin Glover, Melle Mel is often credited as the first rapper to call himself an 'MC,' and his verses on 'The Message' in 1982 turned rap into a vehicle for pointed social and political commentary. He was the only member of the Furious Five to actually appear on the track, delivering Duke Bootee's bleak lyrics about inner-city poverty over a slow, seething electronic beat built for tension rather than the dance floor.

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

At a glance

Active

1978–present

From

Bronx, New York

Listen

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.