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Introduction
From the 1970s to the end of the 20th century, Hip-hop as a genre slowly worked its way into the mainstream. Simultaneously, the music itself was evolving as more and more upcoming artists were innovating the genre. -
Sugarhill Gang Releases "Rappers Delight"
In 1979, Hip-hop group Sugarhill Gang released a song that would begin hip-hops entrance into the mainstream. "Rapper's Delight" would go on to peak at number 36 on the Billboard Hot 100 and brought awareness and interest into hip-hops sound while it was still in its infancy. This image shows the group performing live in 1979 -
Hip-hops First Album Goes Gold
In 1984, hip-hop group RUN-DMC released their self-titled album, which would go on to be the first hip-hop album to sell 500,000 units. RUN-DMC would go on to innovate and solidify hip-hop's role in the mainstream by incorporating elements of rock music into their sound. This image shows the group performing live with an ABC camera crew recording the performance -
Eric B. and Rakim Release "Paid In Full"
In 1988, one of the most important hip-hop albums would be released by D.J Eric B. and rapper Rakim. "Paid In Full" set the bar for lyricism in hip-hop. Rakim elevated lyricism by using complex, intricate techniques such as internal and multisyllabic rhymes as well as with creative use of figurative language. This image of Rakim performing live shows his intense, serious personality as well as his passion for hip-hop -
Tupac Shakur Releases "All Eyez on Me"
In 1996, popular West Coast rapper Tupac released his 4th studio album "All Eyez on Me." The double album would go on to be one of the most celebrated hip-hop albums ever, selling over 10 million units to date. The album was key in solidifying the sound of West Coast rap into the mainstream, which had been dominated by the East Coast sound through the 1980s. This image of Tupac performing in front of a diverse crowd shows how hip-hop began to appeal to wider audiences in the 1990s