Fatback Band – King Tim III (Personality Jock)

On March 25, 1979, the Fatback Band released the single King Tim III (Personality Jock) which is often cited as the first recorded hip hop song,^[1] even if a record called Enterprise who was released in the play Runaways (Original Broadway Cast Recording) on July 7, 1978,^[2][3] is also considered as the first recorded hip hop song. However, the exact origins of hip hop remain debated, with various recordings and performances from the 1970s contributing to its early development. Regardless of the specific milestone, these early releases laid the foundation for the vibrant and influential genre that hip hop would become.^[4]

The Sugarhill Gang – Rapper's Delight

On September 16, 1979, The Sugarhill Gang released the single Rapper's Delight which became the first commercially successful hip hop song. It is often mistaken as the first recorded hip hop song.^[1] In 2011, the song was preserved into the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress stating that the infectious dance number might have launched an entire genre.^[5]

Kurtis Blow – Christmas Rappin'

Russell Simmons decided that he wanted to create a rap record with Kurtis Blow. He realized that the best way of earning money was by creating a Christmas record as it would be played every year. After playing the song for 22 labels, they finally got it released on Mercury Records.^[6] The record was eventually sold over 500,000 times.^[7]There were obstacles in their way as they tried to make "Christmas Rappin'" widely available. Even with the song's obvious popularity, record labels refused to support Simmons and Blow because they doubted rap music could succeed, particularly when it comes to Christmas music. They continued anyhow, playing the song for a number of labels before they eventually signed a record deal with Mercury Records.

Hip-hop history reached a major turning point with the publication of "Christmas Rappin'," which propelled the genre into the public eye over the Christmas season. Sales of more over 500,000 copies proved its success beyond all predictions, demonstrating its ongoing appeal and cultural influence. December is a time for celebration, and the combination of hip-hop and Christmas music adds a special touch to the season. "Christmas Rappin'" by Kurtis Blow, a groundbreaking song in the genre, is one noteworthy example. Not only was the creation of this timeless song a creative inspiration, but it was also a calculated move to capitalize on the popularity of holiday-themed music. Russell Simmons, a creative entrepreneur with a keen understanding of the music business, was the inspiration behind "Christmas Rappin'". Seeing Christmas albums as a rich man's opportunity, Simmons went to work with one of the leading names in the new hip-hop scene, Kurtis Blow. Together, they set out to produce a song that would serve as both an enduring and entertaining piece of music. As we reflect on the legacy of "Christmas Rappin'," we are reminded of the power of music to transcend boundaries and unite people in celebration. In the midst of the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, let us take a moment to appreciate the timeless classics that bring joy and cheer to our lives, including the iconic sounds of Kurtis Blow's "Christmas Rappin'."