On This Day in Hip-Hop: August 17th

Step into a time capsule where music history comes alive. Today, we dive into key moments in hip-hop and music culture, from breakthrough artists to iconic releases. Join us on this journey through decades that have shaped the rhythm of history. Birth of a Hip Hop Innovator Born on this day in 1969 in New York City, Kelvin Mercer, a founding member of the hip hop trio De La Soul, is also known professionally as Posdnuos or Pos. Debut Impact In 1993, rap trailblazers Eightball & MJG, originating from Memphis, Tennessee, unveiled their inaugural album "Comin' Out Hard." Guided under the mentorship of Suave House Records CEO Tony Draper, the album's title track ingeniously sampled "Holding Back the Years" by Simply Red and "Stay" by Rufus & Chaka Khan. This composition swiftly ascended as a southern classic and subsequently found itself reimagined by artists like Three 6 Mafia and Field Mob. Empowering Everyday Women 1993 Xscape Embodies the Spirit of Everyday Women with 'Just Kickin' It' The 1990s witnessed a surge in girl groups, becoming a defining aspect of the era. Among these influential acts such as TLC, SWV, and En Vogue, Xscape emerged as a prominent force, contributing to the evolution of R&B during this period. Spearheaded by Jermaine Dupri, who had previously worked with TLC, Xscape's discovery took place while he sought to establish a female group for his So So Def label. The quartet, composed of Kandi Burruss, Tameka "Tiny" Cottle, and sisters LaTocha and Tamika Scott, was unearthed at his 19th birthday celebration in 1992. Farewell to a Hip-Hop Era On this date in 1995, the legendary show "Yo! MTV Raps" culminated its seven-year broadcast. An instrumental platform in propagating hip-hop culture across global television screens, the show's influence was undeniable. Yet, as hip-hop permeated mainstream media, the show's relevance dwindled, culminating in its eventual cessation. Triumphant Top Spot In 1996, the illustrious hip hop ensemble A Tribe Called Quest etched their names in history by securing the coveted number one position on the US Billboard chart with their fourth studio opus, "Beats, Rhymes and Life." Ludacris' Unveiling Ludacris etched his name in the annals of music in 1999 with the release of his inaugural album "Incognegro." Disseminated through his independent label DTP Entertainment, the album featured notable collaborations and included the infectious club anthem " What’s Your Fantasy," a catalyst propelling Ludacris into the limelight and eventually catapulting him into a major-label deal with Def Jam Recordings. Empowering Artistry Concurrently, 1999 marked the year when Mary J. Blige seized the reins of her career with the unveiling of her eponymous fourth album, "Mary." This album denoted a pivotal juncture as Blige embarked on her artistic voyage independent of prior guidance. Bolstered by accomplished producers, the album showcased a polished R&B soundscape exploring the intricate dimensions of love. Mobb Deep's Unveiling The same year witnessed the release of Mobb Deep's fourth opus, "Murda Muzik," after enduring several setbacks. The album's crowning jewel, "Quiet Storm," featuring Lil' Kim, emerged as a timeless classic within Mobb Deep's repertoire. Initially intended for Prodigy's solo project, the song's resonance on mixtapes propelled its inclusion in "Murda Muzik." A Chart-Topping Dilemma Shifting to 2002, Nelly and Kelly Rowland inaugurated a seven-week reign atop the US Billboard Hot 100 chart with their infectious hit "Dilemma." Captivating Collaborations In 2017, the melodic creation "Feels" by DJ Calvin Harris, featuring Pharrell Williams, Katy Perry, and Big Sean, commandeered the numero uno spot on the UK Singles chart. Drake's Chart Triumph Fast-forwarding to 2019, Canadian rap luminary Drake achieved zenith success with his debut compilation offering "Care Package," securing the topmost position on the prestigious US Billboard 200 chart. And there you have our musical journey through time. These moments remind us how music weaves into our lives, connecting us through beats, lyrics, and shared experiences. Here's to the artists and the music that continue to resonate across time. Thanks for watching!