The late 70s, early 80s was an era where punk/post-punk/new wave played nicely with early Hip-Hop / Rap music. Debbie Harry (of Blondie fame) constructed Rapture and even rapped in the same stylings of pioneer Fab 5 Freddy and the Cold Crush Brothers. Punk rock icon Malcolm McLaren created The World’s Famous Supreme Team (no relation to Kenneth “Supreme” McGriff’s gang of the same name) and the 80s hits Hey DJ and Buffalo Gals (I still have the tape). Artists from both genres could even be seen rubbing shoulders at clubs like the iconic CBGB. Even world famous graffiti artist Futura (2000) collaborated with The Clash, whom were fans of both the emerging rap genre and reggae music. Legendary artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, an avid punk rock fan even produced one of the most sought after records in Hip-Hop, and the most expensive, Beat Bop featuring the late, great Rammellzee & K-Rob. The original record, rumored that only 500 copies were ever pressed, features artwork by Basquiat and is considered one of the holy grails by Hip-Hop collectors.
Another post-punk NYC band, Liquid Liquid created the hit Cavern which would eventually become the backbone to Grandmaster Flash & Melle Mel’s 1983 classic, White Lines, with that easily distinguishable, heavy bassline. Sixteen years later, Havoc would sample that same wrecking bassline to craft Quiet Storm. The beauty of our Hip-Hop culture and it’s ability to be influenced by all genres of music is what makes it truly unique and able to survive for more than several decades. Peace to egotrip on the find.
Browns Place in the Bronx is where I, Grandmaster Flash continued to develop the turntable science. I would host parties in the room connected to my apartment. Right around the corner on Alexander Avenue is where I played my first big park, 54 Park!
Grandmaster Flash releases a video for the lead single off his upcoming album, The Bridge (March 3rd!). Snoop’s crossed out because he doesn’t appear in the video. I guess he has more important things to do than to show support to another legend in the game. I mean it is only his first album in over 20 years. What’s so great about that?* Smh..
*I reeally hope you smart/dumb folk understand sarcasm.
First leak(s) off Grandmaster Flash’s upcoming album, The Bridge. His first album in 20 years! I was waiting for a track to check out from this. I’m digging the Busta cut. The bonus however… I am not. And it’s not even a bad song. The vibe is straight, but it just feels like a desperate attempt to grab the younger audience. Something a legend in the game shouldn’t have to do.
Damn, 20 years since a new album? Anyways, Grandmaster Flash is dropping The Bridge in February, but until then enjoy this trailer and check under the cut for the tracklist.
