Kurtis Blow

Definition

Kurtis Blow is a pioneering hip-hop artist and one of the first commercially successful rappers, best known for his hit song 'The Breaks.' He emerged in the late 1970s and played a crucial role in bringing hip-hop music into mainstream culture. His innovative style, characterized by rhythmic vocal delivery and catchy hooks, helped to establish rap as a legitimate musical genre, paving the way for future artists.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Kurtis Blow's single 'The Breaks' released in 1980 was one of the first rap songs to receive gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America.
2. He was among the first artists to sign with a major record label, helping to legitimize hip-hop as a commercially viable genre.
3. Kurtis Blow's influence extended beyond music; he also appeared in television and films, further solidifying his role in popularizing hip-hop culture.
4. He used his platform to advocate for social issues, often incorporating messages about unity and community into his lyrics.
5. Blow's energetic performances and unique style inspired countless artists who followed him, marking him as a key figure in the development of hip-hop.

Review Questions

• How did Kurtis Blow contribute to the commercialization of hip-hop during its early years?
  • Kurtis Blow played a significant role in the commercialization of hip-hop by becoming one of the first artists to sign with a major record label. His hit song 'The Breaks' not only achieved commercial success but also set a precedent for future hip-hop artists to follow. By demonstrating that rap could achieve mainstream popularity, he opened doors for other artists and helped shape the industry's landscape.
• What impact did Kurtis Blow's music have on the perception of hip-hop as a legitimate musical genre?
  • Kurtis Blow's music had a profound impact on how hip-hop was perceived as a legitimate genre. With hits like 'The Breaks,' he showcased rap's potential for catchy melodies and relatable themes. This helped shift public opinion, as people began to see hip-hop not just as street culture but as an artistic expression worthy of recognition in mainstream music.
• Evaluate Kurtis Blow's influence on subsequent generations of hip-hop artists and the evolution of the genre.
  • Kurtis Blow's influence on subsequent generations of hip-hop artists is evident through his innovative approach to music and performance. He set a standard for lyrical creativity and stage presence that many later artists emulated. As hip-hop evolved into various sub-genres, Blow's contributions paved the way for artists to explore new themes and styles while retaining rap's cultural roots, solidifying his legacy as a foundational figure in hip-hop history.

Related terms

Hip-Hop: A cultural movement that includes various forms of expression such as music, dance, art, and fashion, originating in the Bronx in the 1970s.

Rap: A musical style that involves rhythmically spoken or chanted lyrics over a beat, often addressing social issues or personal experiences.

Breakdancing: A style of street dance that originated alongside hip-hop culture in the late 1970s, featuring acrobatic moves and spins performed to hip-hop music.