By HipHop2020 Innovation Archive
Cindy Campbell, Hip Hop's first party promoter
On August 11, 1973, DJ Kool Herc and Cindy made history when they hosted the “Back to School Jam” in the recreation room of their Bronx apartment building at 1520 Sedgwick Avenue. This historical party is recognized for launching the hip hop movement.
A DJ Kool Herc Party, A Cindy Campbell Promotion
A cultural and artistic movement originating from the technological savviness and creative ingenuity of African American and Afro-Caribbean youth influencers. Hip Hop has since grown to become a global phenomenon and has had a significant impact on various aspects of society.
Sylvia Robinson, the god-mother of popular rap music
Not long after the steam of this underground arts movement caught fire, a lady by the name of Sylvia Robinson, a music industry veteran, founded Sugar Hill Records. She is responsible for executive producing the groundbreaking hit "Rapper's Delight" by the Sugarhill Gang.
Don't push me cuz I'm close to the edge!
Robinson is also behind “The Message” by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, the first rap song with explicit social commentary about social politics in the early 80s.
"Roxanne's Revenge" (1984), Pop Art Records
The Micheal Webster Collection, curated by the HipHop2020 Innovation Archive
Vinyl Record, Round 1 - Roxanne Shante vs Sparky Dee, 1985
Capitalizing on the moment, Roxanne Shante' teamed up with Sparky Dee, who had responded to "Roxanne's Revenge" with "Sparky's Turn (Roxanne You're Through)." The ladies ultimately joined forces and released under Spin Records Round 1 Roxanne Shante' vs Sparky Dee.
"Sparky's Turn"
Round 1 Roxanne Shanté vs. Sparky Dee included 6 tracks, "Roxanne's Revenge," "Sparky's Turn," as well as "Roxanne's Profile," "Sparky's Profile" and the censored/uncensored versions of the battle record, "Round 1."
The Legend of Roxanne Shante'
The influence of Roxanne Shante' on Hip Hop is still felt to this day. She is a pioneer of battle rap and has one of the most unique voices, which ultimately landed her the radio show "Have a Nice Day w/ Roxanne Shante'" on LL Cool J's Rock the Bells Radio.
Roxanne Shante' Autograph to DJ Web, 1986
As part of the "First Annual Concert Against Drug Abuse" at the Atlanta Civic Center, Roxanne Shante' performed along with DJ Web.
"Just like a test I Cram to Understand U..."
MC Lyte challenged the stereotypical portrayal of women in Hip Hop. Her strong, assertive persona presented an alternative image of femininity in the music industry, inspiring many women artists to address community issues while speaking directly to the men.
M.C. Lyte's verse on "Self Destruction" is particularly memorable, as she delivers a message of hope and unity in the face of adversity.
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