August 21st: This Day in Hip-Hop

What's up. Today, we dive into key moments in hip-hop culture, from breakthrough artists to iconic releases. Let's go through decades that have shaped the rhythm of history. Birth of Randy "Stretch" Walker, Notable Rapper and Producer 1968: The birth of rapper and producer Randy "Stretch" Walker, a vital member of Hollis, Queen's Live Squad, renowned for his production work for 2Pac, The Notorious B.I.G., and Nas. He was tragically killed in a high-speed car chase on November 30, 1995, just about "one year and five minutes apart" from Tupac Shakur's pivotal shooting at Quad Studios, as reported by Lieutenant Vito R. Spano of the NYPD. Birth of Kelis Rogers, Multi-Talented Musician Kelis Rogers, named after her parents Kenneth and Eveliss, was born. Raised in the Frederick Douglass Houses in Harlem, she displayed her musical talents through church singing and playing various instruments. Release of "Short Dog’s in the House" by Too $hort In 1990 Too $hort released "Short Dog’s in the House," his sixth album, which reached the Top 20 of the Billboard 200 and No. 3 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. The album featured a remake of Donny Hathaway's classic "The Ghetto" and the MC Hammer-dissing track "Short But Funky," with a significant influence of funk, particularly George Clinton's P-Funk. Jay-Z Releases Hit Single "Izzo (H.O.V.A.)" In 2001 Jay-Z unveiled "Izzo (H.O.V.A.)," a standout single from his classic album "The Blueprint." The song heavily sampled Jackson 5's "I Want You Back" and Dr. Dre's "Xxplosive" beat, contributing to its success and solidifying a mentor relationship between Jay-Z and producer Kanye West. Three 6 Mafia Presents "Choices: The Album" in 2001 Three 6 Mafia released "Choices: The Album," a soundtrack to their independent movie of the same name, depicting the choices and penitentiary chances of a Memphis ex-con. The album featured collaborations with crew members like DJ Paul, Juicy J, and guest artist Ludacris. Juvenile's Lesson in "Project English" In 2001 Juvenile's album "Project English" provided an ironic twist as it led to his departure from Cash Money Records, despite achieving No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and featuring collaborations with Cash Money artists Lil Wayne, B.G., and Big Tymers. "Lean Back" Propels Terror Squad to the Top On August 21, hip-hop group Terror Squad achieved the pinnacle of the US Billboard Hot 100 chart with their hit single "Lean Back." Rihanna Drops "Hate That I Love You" Featuring Ne-Yo In 2007 Rihanna released "Hate That I Love You," a platinum-certified ballad from her album "Good Girl Gone Bad," co-written and produced by Norwegian beatmakers Stargate and Ne-Yo. M.I.A. Releases Globally-Influenced Album "Kala" In 2008 M.I.A. dropped "Kala," her second album, recorded across the world due to US Homeland Security concerns. Despite challenges, the album reached No. 18 on the Billboard 200, fueled by the enduring single "Paper Planes." Swizz Beatz Becomes the "One Man Band Man" Swizz Beatz showcased his solo talents with "One Man Band Man," featuring guest appearances by notable artists. The album achieved No. 1 on the Top R&B/ Hip-Hop Albums chart and debuted at No. 7 on the Billboard 200. Talib Kweli Delivers "Eardrum" In 2007 Talib Kweli released "Eardrum," his first album under Blacksmith Records and distributed by Warner Brothers. The album boasted a diverse lineup of guest collaborators, including UGK, will.i.am, KRS-One, and more. Eminem's Triumph with "Recovery" Eminem's seventh studio release "Recovery" topped the UK Albums chart, earning nominations for three Grammy Awards and achieving No. 1 status in seventeen countries. Flo Rida and David Guetta's Chart-Topping "Club Can’t Handle Me" In 2010 The UK singles chart witnessed American rapper Flo Rida and French producer David Guetta's collaboration, with their single "Club Can’t Handle Me" reigning at the top. 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!