The 1970s marked the birth of hip-hop as a genre, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry and creating a foundation for the cultural revolution that soon followed. As the decade unfolded, a new wave of rappers emerged, unleashing their innovative styles and powerful lyrical content. These pioneers paved the way for future generations of artists, setting the stage for the global phenomenon that hip hop would become.
At the heart of this groundbreaking era were the trailblazing rappers who, with their unprecedented skills and magnetic personas, were instrumental in shaping the landscape of the genre for years to come. From DJ Kool Herc, often referred to as the father of hip hop, to the iconic Sugar Hill Gang, whose “Rapper’s Delight” became the first rap song to receive widespread radio airplay, the influence of these artists cannot be overstated.
The Birth of Rap and Hip-Hop in the 70s
Influence of Funk, Disco, and Soul
The birth of rap and hip-hop in the 70s is heavily rooted in the influence of funk, disco, and soul music. These genres featured extensive syncopated beats, powerful bass lines, and catchy melodies, laying the foundation for the rhythmic and vocal delivery defining rap and hip-hop. DJs in the 70s would blend these styles, using diverse samples and layering drum breaks to create a new sonic landscape for partygoers and music enthusiasts alike.
DJ Kool Herc and the Break
DJ Kool Herc is often considered the father of hip-hop due to his role in developing the breakbeat style. On August 11, 1973, DJ Kool Herc played music for his little sister and her guests at a neighborhood party in their apartment building. By isolating and looping the instrumental sections of funk, disco, and soul songs, he created what’s known as the “break” – the rhythmic foundation upon which rappers would build their lyrical flow.
DJ Kool Herc utilized two turntables to enhance the break further, enabling him to seamlessly switch between the instrumental sections of two records and extend the break indefinitely. This innovation gave birth to a new musical genre and spearheaded the art of turntablism, influencing generations of DJs to come.
The Last Poets: Precursors to Rap
Before rap became a distinct genre, the spoken-word collective known as The Last Poets emerged in 1970 with style resembling rhythmic vocal delivery and social commentary that would eventually become hallmarks of rap and hip-hop. Their debut album featured powerful poetry infused with rhythmic instrumentation, a sound that resonated with the burgeoning hip-hop culture.
The Last Poets are credited with paving the way for rap and hip-hop artists, delivering profound messages and innovative performances that inspired the genre’s evolution. By connecting the dots between funk, disco, soul, and poetry, they exemplified the diverse influences that would shape the rap and hip-hop landscape in the 1970s and beyond.
Pioneering 70s Rappers and Their Impact
Grandmaster Flash: Turntablism and Technique
Grandmaster Flash was one of the most influential figures in the early days of hip-hop. He pioneered turntablism, a technique where DJs manipulate records and turntables to create new sounds and beats during performances. Through his innovative use of the turntables, he laid the groundwork for future DJs and helped define the sound of hip-hop in the 70s. Flash’s techniques, such as quick mixing and beat juggling, became essential skills for hip-hop DJs, helping to elevate the role of DJs in hip-hop culture.
Kurtis Blow: First Billboard Hit
In the late 70s, Kurtis Blow emerged as another pioneering figure of the decade’s hip-hop scene. He was the first rapper to have a hit single on the Billboard charts with his 1980 release, “The Breaks.” This achievement marked a significant milestone for hip-hop, as it was the first time rap music gained national recognition and commercial success. Kurtis Blow’s unique style and charisma captivated audiences, showcasing the potential of hip-hop as a genre and paving the way for future artists eager to break into the mainstream.
Lady B: Female MC Pioneer
Lady B, a Philadelphia native, emerged as one of the very first female MCs in the hip-hop scene during the late 70s. Her 1979 release, “To the Beat Y’all,” established her as a trailblazer and a talented rapper in an industry that was, and still is, predominantly male. Lady B’s success and impact opened doors for other female rappers and inspired a new generation of women to enter hip-hop. She set the stage for the long line of amazing female MCs who have impacted the genre.
Seminal 70s Rap Songs and Hip-Hop Culture
Rapper’s Delight: The Sugarhill Gang’s Classic
“Rapper’s Delight” by The Sugarhill Gang shouldn’t be understated in its influence and legacy. Released in 1979, the song was a pioneering hit that introduced many listeners to hip-hop for the first time. With its catchy, funk-infused beat and accessible lyrics, “Rapper’s Delight” became a gateway for rap music to enter the mainstream and enabled countless artists to rise alongside the genre.
The Message: Socially Conscious Lyrics
In addition to the fun, lighthearted tracks of the 70s, hip-hop also began to delve into more serious and socially aware lyrics. Songs like “The Message” by Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five were characterized by their sharp observations about urban life and its challenges, touching on poverty, crime, and inequality themes. These socially conscious lyrics contributed to hip-hop’s artistry, depth, and versatility as it continued to evolve.
MC Battles and B-Boy Culture
The 70s also saw the rise of MC battles and B-boy culture. In these events, rappers would engage in lyrical duels, challenging each other to outperform one another with dexterous rhymes, clever wordplay, and dynamic delivery. Simultaneously, B-boy culture emphasized dance and acrobatics as an integral part of hip-hop, giving the genre a distinctive visual identity to complement its musical innovations.
Together, these elements – seminal rap songs like “Rapper’s Delight,” socially conscious lyrics, and the vibrancy of MC battles and B-boy culture – helped shape hip-hop into the unique and diverse form of artistic expression it remains today.
Influences on Later Generations of Rappers
From Old School to Golden Age
The ’70s rappers laid the foundation for the development of hip-hop and significantly influenced the Golden Age. Pioneers such as DJ Kool Herc created the genre in 1973 with his unique approach to mixing records, inspiring many to join the movement. Herc catalyzed groups such as Run DMC and the Beastie Boys, who were a part of hip-hop’s transition from old school to the Golden Age.
During the ’80s and ’90s, the Zulu Nation expanded the scope of hip-hop to encompass more than just music and pushed the style in a more conscious, poetic direction. This cultural impact resonated with artists such as Nas, one of the most influential rappers of his generation, who cited his predecessors as a significant source of inspiration.
Legacy for Female MCs
The ’70s rappers paved the way for female MCs to challenge gender norms within the industry and earn respect for their skills on the mic. MC Lyte, often considered the First Lady of Hip-Hop, broke new ground for women in a male-dominated field. Her success led to the emergence of Queen Latifah, who became famous for her music and dedication to promoting women’s rights within the hip-hop community. Female artists today, like Cardi B and Nicki Minaj, continue to push the boundaries and assert their presence in the rap game, thanks to the trailblazers that came before them.
Inspirations for Modern Artists
Many aspects of ’70s hip-hop influenced the careers of prominent modern rappers. Eminem, one of the most successful rappers in history, frequently draws inspiration from early rappers’ rapid-fire delivery and wordplay. Producers such as Dr. Dre and artists like Notorious B.I.G owe part of their legacy to the groundwork set by DJ Kool Herc’s innovative techniques.
Additionally, the longevity of the ’70s rappers is a testament to their influence. Many are still active in the scene, either performing or mentoring the next generation. While hip-hop as a genre has evolved and expanded significantly over the years, the influence of ’70s rappers on later generations remains essential to understanding hip-hop’s roots and its journey through the decades.
Conclusion: The Lasting Impact of 70s Rap
70s rap artists laid the foundation for hip-hop music that we know and love today. These pioneers created a unique and raw sound in their work, which paved the way for future rappers and musicians.
Their achievements during this period are undeniably remarkable, considering they were venturing into uncharted territory within the music landscape. The works of these early rappers have accumulated significant cultural and artistic value as they reflect the social and political issues of the time.
One of the most significant aspects of the lasting impact of 70s rap is its influence on the genre’s evolution. Early hip-hop artists inspired countless future performers to explore various styles and subgenres, ultimately contributing to the rich diversity of modern rap music.
In conclusion, the enduring impact of 70s rap is evident in the continued influence of its pioneers on subsequent generations. Their trailblazing efforts and authentic artistic expression continue to shape the sound and development of hip hop music, solidifying their place in music history as true visionaries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the top 70s male rappers?
Some of the top male rappers from the 1970s included The Sugarhill Gang, Grandmaster Flash, Kool Herc, Afrika Bambaataa, and The Last Poets. These pioneers laid the foundation for the hip-hop genre and influenced future artists.
What are the best 70s rap songs?
The best 70s rap songs include “Rapper’s Delight” by The Sugarhill Gang, “King Tim III (Personality Jock)” by Fatback, and “The Message” by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five. These tracks serve as early examples of the hip-hop genre and showcase its development during that time.
Who were prominent 70s female rappers?
In the 1970s, female rappers were not as prevalent, but one standout figure was Sha-Rock of the group Funky 4 + 1. As an early female MC, Sha-Rock played a significant role in proving that women could excel in hip-hop.
How did 70s hip-hop influence the genre?
Hip-hop in the 1970s laid the foundation for the genre through its innovative use of sampling, breakbeats, and rhymes. Artists from this time heavily influenced the development of the lyrical structure, themes, and stylistic elements that have shaped the sound of rap music today.
What was the rap scene like in the 1970s?
The rap scene in the 1970s was primarily centered around block parties, dance clubs, and parks in New York City. DJs would spin instrumental breaks, while MCs would engage the audience with rhythmic spoken-word poetry and rhymes. The emerging culture included elements like breakdancing, graffiti, and fashion that would later become key components of the hip-hop movement.
Who were the pioneers of 70s rap?
The pioneers of 70s rap include Kool Herc, Afrika Bambaataa, and Grandmaster Flash. These artists and others like The Last Poets and The Sugarhill Gang are responsible for the development and evolution of rap music and the broader hip-hop culture.
