Afrika Bambaataa is a DJ legend, hip-hop icon and founding father of electro funk. Listen to a live mega mix from the mighty hands of the master...
Afrika Bambaataa (born in New York City in 1957) was instrumental in the early development of hip-hop throughout the 1980s and is one of the three originators of break-beat deejaying. Also known as the "Grandfather" and "The Amen Ra of Universal Hip Hop Culture" as well as "The Father of The Electro Funk Sound", he's quite rightfully respected around the world as a true musical pioneer.
Influenced by George Clinton and his numerous musical projects, Afrika Bambaataa formed the Soul Sonic Force and had an idea for a record revolving around Kraftwerk's Trans-Europe Express in 1982 which was worked it into a gold record with the help of Arthur Baker. In 1990, Bambaataa was featured in LIFE magazine's "Most Important Americans of the 20th Century" issue...
“Afrika Bambaataa has been spinning records since your dad was in grade school, and he casts a broader shadow over rap and dance culture than Puff Daddy or Tupac. There likely wouldn't even be such a genre if it weren't for Afrika Bambaataa. His seminal Planet Rock is one of the most important records of the past millennium, and his influence can be heard (and felt) in everything from disco and rock to electronica. He's also been a lifelong advocate of peace and nonviolence, and has used music as a universal mediator for over 20 years.” - Justin Kownacki
Today, Bambaataa is still looking for the perfect beat around the globe and keeping the triad of music, graffiti and breakdancing alive.
Get down on the floor with a Bambaataa-mix on Red Bull Music Academy recorded live at Las Vegas' Rain Club:
Part 1:
Part 2:
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