On this day in hip-hop history, one of the most important films for hip-hop culture was released in theaters around the world.Directed by Stan Lathan beat street The film helped push hip-hop culture as a whole into the mainstream market, showing a side of the scene that people outside of New York had never heard before.
The plot follows Kenny Kirkland, aka DJ Double K, a young man who aspires to become one of New York’s top DJs. Through performances, trials and tribulations, Kenny is able to grow as a DJ and achieve his goal of performing at New York’s famous club, The Roxy. The film’s story of perseverance and struggle to achieve a dream inspired generations growing up, many of whom have become prominent figures in hip-hop today.
The film includes Afrika Bambaataa and Soul Sonic Force, The Treasureous Three (including Kool Moo Dee), Rock Steady Crew, New York City Breakers, Doug E. Fresh and many others. It features many of hip-hop’s pioneering artists and personalities. A person who had a great influence on the culture of the time.
The film’s commercial success has spread beyond the country’s borders and influenced cultures across the globe. Grossing $16,595,791 at the box office, the film was a huge hit not only in the United States, but also in Europe, especially in Germany. At a time when East and West were still divided, this film is said to have single-handedly sparked a boom in hip-hop culture in both West Germany. The film also helped popularize graffiti culture not only in the United States, but throughout East and West Germany.
Referenced in songs by Jay Electronica, The Notorious BIG, Arizona, Las Kass, and others, it’s clear that this painting has inspired rap music across generations and across all walks of life. If you haven’t seen it yet, watch it and see for yourself what brought this beloved genre to so many, from urban fads to international cultural booms.
