Kurtis Blow cover

Kurtis Blow

Kurtis Blow · 1980

50 min · 9 tracks · hip-hop

A pioneering blend of funk-infused beats with playful, narrative-driven raps that laid the groundwork for hip-hop's mainstream emergence.

Why this album works

This album is significant for being one of the first to bring hip-hop into mainstream consciousness, featuring tracks like 'The Breaks', which became a commercial success. It was instrumental in shaping the sound of early hip-hop and influencing future artists within the genre.
Career context
Kurtis Blow released his self-titled debut album in 1980, marking his first major entry into the music scene after gaining traction with the hit 'Christmas Rappin'. This album established him as one of hip-hop's earliest stars, helping to solidify his place in a genre that was just beginning to capture national attention.
Stylistic neighbors
UGK· Tag Team· Mystikal

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Rappin’ Blow, Part 2 Standout 4:42
  • 2 The Breaks Standout 7:43
  • 3 Way Out West 7:43
  • 4 Throughout Your Years 5:21
  • 5 Hard Times Standout 4:38
  • 6 All I Want in This World (Is to Find That Girl) 5:00
  • 7 Takin’ Care of Business 5:31
  • 8 Christmas Rappin’ 3:57
  • 9 The Breaks (instrumental) 5:51

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata