Hip Hop Legends Come Together for an Epic Night of Music and Celebration
On a Thursday night at Webster Hall in New York City, the hip hop community came together for an event that celebrated the best of the genre's history and culture. Featuring some of the biggest names in the game, the event showcased the talents of DJs, MCs, and performers who have shaped the sound of hip hop over the past few decades.
2023 marks a significant milestone for hip hop as it celebrates its 50th year of existence. This year also brings the long-awaited arrival of De La Soul's eclectic record collection to streaming services, a defining moment for the pioneering group. However, the joyous occasion was tinged with sadness following the recent passing of founding member Dave "Trugoy" Joliceur aka Plug 2, mere weeks before this momentous occasion.
Rich Medina set the tone for the night with his selection of classic tracks from KRS-One, A Tribe Called Quest, and Redman. Stretch Armstrong followed suit with his high-energy set that got the crowd pumped up. The impressive DJ lineup continued with Tony Touch and Clark Kent, each showcasing their skills on the decks and taking the audience on a trip down memory lane with classic hip hop tracks. Clark Kent's mesmerizing Biggie cuts were a highlight of the night. DJ D-Nice kept the party going with his heavy reverb style mic, reminiscent of the late 80s park jam scene, and added an authentic touch to his numerous shoutouts to the crowd. Overall, the lineup of DJs delivered an exceptional performance that took the audience on a journey through the golden age of hip hop.
As the night went on, more legends took to the stage, including Chuck D, Black Thought, and Talib Kweli, each delivering unforgettable freestyles that left the audience in awe.
The concert was also attended by a number of celebrities, including Dave Chappelle,who showed his support for the genre and the artists who have helped to shape it. The decorations and balloons that adorned the stage, including Pterodactyl-sized daisies, added to the festive atmosphere, and as the clock struck midnight, the balloons fell from above, signaling that De La Soul music is now available for streaming.
Throughout the night, the performers paid homage to the late Plug 2 and the legacy he left behind, with group member Maseo signing off the night with a heartfelt thank you to the fans and a birthday shoutout to hip hop.
As we celebrate 50 years of hip hop, the arrival of De La Soul's music on streaming services is a testament to the enduring power and influence of this groundbreaking art form.In a time when the hip hop scene has become more commercialized and mainstream, events like this serve as a reminder of the true essence of the genre and the artists who have helped to shape it. The night was a celebration of the art form and a tribute to the legends who continue to inspire a new generation of hip hop fans and artists alike.
