Hip-hop
Many so-called "Hip-Hop Legend" tours have come through Philly, but none have featured the Sugarhill Gang, widely credited with recording hip-hop's first single, "Rapper's Delight" in 1979. Indeed, many present-day rap fans weren't even born when the trio of Master Gee, Big Bank Hank and Wonder Mike recorded that magnificent, 8-minute-plus opus.
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Many so-called "Hip-Hop Legend" tours have come through Philly, but none have featured the
Sugarhill Gang,
widely credited with recording hip-hop's first single, "Rapper's Delight" in 1979. Indeed, many present-day rap fans weren't even born when the trio of Master Gee, Big Bank Hank and Wonder Mike recorded that magnificent, 8-minute-plus opus.
At a time when sampling - like hip-hop itself - was new, The Sugarhill Gang borrowed heavily from Chic's "Good Times" to construct the song, which essentially featured three emcees boasting about their lyrical prowess.
This is a rare opportunity to see these originators of the art form.
The Sugarhill Gang at Crocodile Rock Cafe, 520 W. Hamilton Ave., Allentown, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, $15 in advance, $18 at the door, 610-434-4800, www.crocodilerockcafe.com.
- Damon C. Williams