Kurtis Blow One of the first commercially successful rap artists Date of Birth: 09.08.1959 Country: USA

1. The Uncrowned King of Rap: Kurtis Blow
2. Breakdancing and DJing
3. The Force and Russell Simmons
4. "Christmas Rappin'" and a Major Label
5. "The Breaks" and Commercial Success
6. Later Albums and Decline
7. Collaborations and Later Career
8. Return to Radio and Religion

The Uncrowned King of Rap: Kurtis Blow

Kurtis Walker, known by his stage name Kurtis Blow, was born on August 9, 1959, in the heart of Harlem, New York City. Growing up in the vibrant neighborhood, he had an early fascination with music.

Breakdancing and DJing

In 1976, Kurtis joined a local breakdancing crew. His interest in music soon led him to pursue DJing under the alias Kool DJ Kurt. This experience honed his skills and introduced him to the burgeoning hip-hop scene.

The Force and Russell Simmons

During his time at City College of New York, Kurtis became the program director of the student radio station. There, he connected with Russell Simmons, an influential music producer. Inspired by Simmons, he started performing with the group The Force, becoming the "Number 1 Rapper in Queens."

"Christmas Rappin'" and a Major Label

In 1979, Kurtis Blow's career took a major turn when Russell Simmons persuaded a Billboard reporter to record his first professional track, "Christmas Rappin'." Despite initial industry skepticism, the single became the first rap song to be released by a major label, Artists and Repertoire.

"The Breaks" and Commercial Success

Kurtis Blow's second single, "The Breaks," was a smash hit in 1980. It reached the top five on Billboard's R&B chart and became the first hip-hop single to receive a gold certification. Critics hailed it as the "best single of 1980." The same year, he performed as an opening act for Bob Marley at Madison Square Garden.

Later Albums and Decline

Despite the success of "The Breaks," Kurtis Blow's subsequent albums with Mercury Records failed to achieve the same level of popularity. However, his 1984 album "Ego Trip" enjoyed some critical acclaim.

Collaborations and Later Career

In 1986, Kurtis Blow collaborated with Bob Dylan on the song "Street Rock." He also produced for various groups, including the Fat Boys. In the mid-80s, his single "If I Ruled the World" recaptured some of his former glory, but it was his last major hit.

Return to Radio and Religion

In the 1990s, Kurtis Blow returned to his radio roots with his show "Kurtis Blow Old School Show" on Power 106. In recent years, he has explored Christian rap, releasing several tracks for Christian rap albums.