Hip-Hop History Month

The late Detroit rapper J Dilla’s posthumous third studio album, “The Shining,” was released today, in 2006. It served as a testament to his work in the producer world. J Dilla was also a member of the infamous rap group, Slum Village consisting of him, T3, & Young RJ. It was released in 2006, after […]

Talib Kweli’s third studio album, “Eardrum”, dropped on August 21, 2007, and marked a huge shift in his career. The album continued his tradition of blending deep lyrics with creative beats, showing off his style which kept evolving. “Eardrum” brought a new diverse range of production, including contributions from Kanye West, will.i.am, Hi-Tek, & many […]

NWA’s EP ‘100 Miles and Runnin’,’ released today in 1990! It is a very important record in the history of West Coast hip-hop. Containing only five tracks, the EP showcased the group’s lyrical abilities, and signature gangsta’ sound. The track titled, ‘100 Miles and Runnin’,’ is a popular anthem that captures the group’s defiance and […]

The legendary Jadakiss released his debut album Kiss Tha Game Goodbye today on August 7th, under Ruff Ryders & Interscope Records. Coming out of Yonkers, NY, Jadakiss hit the rap game hard with his smooth wordplay and raspy unique voice. He had previously done work with the LOX which resulted in fans already being familiar […]

Coming out of Harlem, New York, Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock released their debut single “It Takes Two on this day in 1988. When the two came together, their intense energy and catchy beats caught fans’ attention immediately. “It Takes Two” quickly made its way to the top. It was released under Profile Records […]

Today, 35 years ago Eric B. & Rakim released their second studio album “Follow The Leader”. Many view the album as one of the greatest and most influential records in the history of hip-hop. Eric B. is the DJ and producer of the duo, while Rakim is the masterful lyricist and rapper. “Follow the Leader” […]

Following the success of their debut album, “Licensed to Ill,” which was the first hip-hop album to top the Billboard 200 chart, The Beastie Boys faced the task of creating a worthy follow-up album. That is when “Paul’s Boutique” was born. It was seen as a significant change from the sound of their debut album. […]

Masta Ace’s debut album, “Take a Look Around,” was released today in 1990 under the label Cold Chillin’ Records. It marked the start of Masta Ace’s solo career after his time as a member of the Juice Crew, and it displayed his talent as a skilled lyricist and storyteller. The album received notice for its […]

Coolio’s debut solo album It Takes A Thief is a classic hip hop album that made a huge impact in 1994. The Los Angeles-based rapper stepped into the scene with a unique voice and a distinctive style that shook the world. It Takes A Thief is a blend of upbeat funk sounds with a mixture […]

MF Doom, real name Daniel Dumile, was a mysterious, talented, and influential figure in the world of hip-hop. Today, on July 13, 1971, he was born. His impact on the genre can hardly be overstated. Known for his complex wordplay, cryptic persona, and unique production, Doom’s style pushed the boundaries of what rap can be. […]

Directed by Craig Brewer, the 2005 film Hustle & Flow gained tons of popularity for its authentic portrayal of the Southern rap grind culture. Eighteen years ago today, the soundtrack was released. The movie’s soundtrack played a huge role in the emotional nature of the characters as well as the setting that the story took […]

Don’t Sweat The Technique is the fourth and final studio album by the hip-hop duo Eric B. & Rakim. It was released on June 23, 1992, and is considered a classic in the genre. The album is known for its innovative production, intricate rhyme schemes, and thought-provoking lyrics, which solidified Eric B. & Rakim’s reputation […]