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On August 11, 1973, the first “legal” party of its kind was held, and as part of its 50th anniversary, New York City is preparing for a party that will last 12 months.
The Bronx, one of the best known and most popular neighborhoods in New York, is the birthplace of hip-hop and today it is such a recognized genre that history courses are even taught in universities in the United States. Why is August 11 important?
That day, almost 50 years ago, was the first legal holiday. At that time, DJ Kool Herc (Clive Campbell) was only 18 years old and he released “Back To School Jam” for his sister Cindy Campbell, of course the party was held in the South Bronx, at the rec hall 1520 Sedgwick Ave. That event marked a historical starting point for the genre, as from then until today the literary and musical art continues to grow around the world.
As for the anniversary, New York has partnered with the Museum of Hip Hop and the celebration will last 12 months, according to the schedule it will be held in all counties in the United States and will have educational elements.
“Happy birthday to hip hop. Hip hop turns 50, we will have a celebration party like we have never seen before and in places where historically it has been denied the right to be there. The birth of hip hop is here, in New York,” said Eric Adams, the mayor of the city, who is also a fan of the genre and has gone so far as to say that music and urban art have helped him to be what and today.
The celebration will also include the sale of products related to the popular genre. During the announcement, Adams shared several emotional reflections: “When these brothers and sisters were starting this amazing genre of music, nobody wanted it. It was rejected. It could not be seen anywhere. And it has even been criminalized. But they went ahead and were bold enough to be true to their arts and crafts.”
He also remembered watching Video Music Box, the first television program to showcase hip hop videos created in 1983 by Ralph McDaniels and Lionel C. Martin. McDaniels was also present at the presentation and spoke of the educational program that will involve museums and libraries.
“All educational facilities will participate in this because I think it is important. Hip hop uses more words than any other music genre and I think it’s important for our young people to know how to use those words and make them work for them so they can move forward.”
Finally, he expressed, “Education is the fifth element of hip hop, and that too will be represented in this celebration.”
