Newark Celebrates 50 Years of Hip Hop

In this episode of Ras in 60, we celebrate hip-hop’s monumental 50^th anniversary and dive into the influential world of the music genre. There is no doubt that the hip-hop culture has impacted the lives of many, spurred national dialog, and raised awareness to injustice. Born in the Bronx, hip-hop quickly crossed the Hudson River to put down roots in New Jersey, where Englewood’s The Sugarhill Gang catapulted the genre into the mainstream music market.

Listen now to an interview with THE SUGARHILL GANG – the pioneers who made history recording the world’s first hip-hop record, Rapper’s Delight.

 Also, on this episode, hear from West Ward Council Member Duprè Kelly, a hip-hop artist who successfully transitioned from the music industry into a career in public service.

This Labor Day weekend, Newark is hosting its annual 24 Hrs of Peace event, which uses the hip-hop culture as a vehicle to positively engage the community and promote peace. Mayor Baraka founded the 24 Hours of Peace event 11 years ago when he was a Council Member for the South Ward and made it a citywide event when he became mayor.

24 Hrs of Peace Co-Founder Hakim Green also joins the show along with Council Member Kelly. The two will discuss using hip-hop culture to evoke change, transitioning careers as hip-hop artists, the 24 Hours of Peace event, and much more.

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com