LL Cool J

 James Todd Smith, known by his stage name LL Cool J (short for Ladies Love Cool James), was born on January 14, 1968, in Bay Shore, New York. His parents were Ondrea Griffith and James Louis Smith Jr. Life for Smith was challenging from an early age; his father shot his mother and grandfather when Smith was just four years old. Despite these hardships, Smith and his mother moved to St. Albans, Queens, where he was raised by his grandparents.

Smith found solace in music, particularly influenced by the hip-hop group The Treacherous Three. By the age of 16, he was creating demo tapes in his grandparents' home, supported by his grandfather, a jazz saxophonist, who provided him with musical equipment. Smith's father also played a role in his music career, offering guidance and support. With determination and talent, Smith pursued a career in music, sending his demos to various record labels in New York City.

In 1984, Smith signed with Def Jam Recordings and released his first official record, the single "I Need a Beat." This marked the beginning of his successful music career, as he became one of the earliest rappers to achieve mainstream success. His debut album, "Radio" (1985), received critical acclaim and commercial success, selling over a million copies and featuring hit singles like "I Can't Live Without My Radio" and "Rock the Bells."

Throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, LL Cool J continued to release successful albums, including "Bigger and Deffer" (1987), "Mama Said Knock You Out" (1990), and "Mr. Smith" (1995). His versatility as an artist was evident in his ability to produce both hip-hop and R&B hits, such as "I Need Love" and "Hey Lover."

In addition to his music career, LL Cool J ventured into acting, appearing in numerous films and television shows, including "Halloween H20," "In Too Deep," and "NCIS: Los Angeles." He also hosted the popular television show "Lip Sync Battle."

LL Cool J's contributions to music and entertainment have been widely recognized. He is a two-time Grammy Award winner and has been honored with accolades such as being named one of VH1's "100 Greatest Artists of All Time" and receiving the Kennedy Center Honors in 2017. In 2021, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for Musical Excellence.

Offstage, LL Cool J is a devoted family man, married to Simone Johnson since 1995, with whom he has four children. He has also been involved in political advocacy, supporting causes and candidates that align with his values, including his support for President Barack Obama. Throughout his career, LL Cool J has remained an influential figure in both music and popular culture, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the pioneers of hip-hop.

Break Machine

 Break Machine, an influential American rap act, came into existence under the creative guidance of Keith Rodgers, a musician and rap radio show presenter on New York's WHBI 105.9. Rodgers, initially known as 'Bon Rock,' gained attention with his 1981 single "Searching Rap." The pivotal moment in Break Machine's formation occurred when Jacques Morali and Henri Belolo, renowned for their work with the Village People, discovered Rodgers. This collaboration aimed to explore new musical styles in the aftermath of disco's decline.

In 1983, with the addition of Fred Zarr to the lineup, Break Machine released the iconic "Street Dance." Produced by Morali and Belolo, the track became a global sensation, marking one of the earliest instances of hip-hop breaking into the mainstream. "Street Dance" achieved remarkable success, reaching #3 on the UK Singles Chart in March 1984 and securing the 39th spot among the best-selling singles of that year. The song also topped charts in Sweden and Norway, holding the #1 position for five weeks in Norway and two weeks in France, where it sold over a million copies.

Following the triumph of "Street Dance," Break Machine continued their success with subsequent singles. "Break Dance Party" and "Are You Ready?" both charted in the UK, peaking at number 9 and number 27, respectively. The eponymous album, "Break Machine," reached number 17 on the UK Albums Chart, solidifying their status as key contributors to the evolving landscape of electro-funk and hip-hop dance.

Break Machine's impact extended beyond their chart achievements. They played a pivotal role in introducing hip-hop to a broader audience and establishing its presence in mainstream music. The fusion of rap, electro-funk, and dance-pop in their music showcased the genre-blurring possibilities within the dynamic musical landscape of the early 1980s.

Break Machine, fronted by Keith Rodgers and guided by the visionary production team of Jacques Morali and Henri Belolo, occupies a unique place in the history of hip-hop and electro-funk. Their breakthrough with "Street Dance" marked a turning point in the global acceptance of hip-hop, setting the stage for the genre's continued evolution. Break Machine's contribution to the vibrant soundscape of the 1980s remains celebrated, emphasizing their enduring legacy in the world of dance and urban music.

Chris 'The Glove' Taylor

Chris Taylor, born on May 22, 1962, and known by monikers such as The Glove, DJ Glove, and ChrisGlove, emerged as a prominent DJ and producer on the West Coast hip-hop scene during the 1980s and 1990s.

Taylor initiated his career as a DJ in Los Angeles, establishing his presence on the West Coast music scene. His breakthrough came with a notable appearance in the 1984 film "Breakin'," where he showcased his skills alongside the legendary Ice-T. During this period, Taylor produced the electro-influenced track "Reckless" for the film's soundtrack, setting the stage for his influential contributions to the hip-hop genre.

A significant chapter in Taylor's career involves collaboration with Ice-T, resulting in the production of several electro-influenced records. Their 1984 single "Reckless" stands out as a testament to their creative synergy.

Chris Taylor's impact extends to his production credits, notably on Nas's "Phone Tap." He claims to have played a crucial, albeit uncredited, role in producing tracks like "Stranded on Death Row" and "Doggy Dogg World" on Dr. Dre's "The Chronic" and Snoop Dogg's "Doggystyle," respectively. Additionally, Taylor asserts involvement in crafting tracks like "Xxplosive" (Dr. Dre) and "Hello" (NWA), despite lacking official credits.

Beyond his role as a producer, Taylor's versatility is evident in his contributions as an engineer, mixer, and musician. He reportedly played these roles on Dr. Dre's groundbreaking album "The Chronic."

Chris Taylor's career continued to evolve. He collaborated with Ice-T on various projects, including the electro-influenced records of the 1980s. Taylor diversified his portfolio by being a founding member of Po' Broke & Lonely?, an R&B act signed to Ruthless Records. Additionally, he accrued producer credits with The Firm and was involved in projects like "Phone Tap," "Welcome to the Aftermath," and "Focus."

As of recent times, Chris 'The Glove' Taylor remains active in the music industry. Notably, he has been working on Fatlip's forthcoming album, contributing to the lead single "Dust in the Wind" featuring Krayzie Bone. Released on February 18th, 2022, this single is set to be part of the album titled “Sccit & Siavash The Grouch Present… Fatlip - Torpor.”

Taylor's involvement extends beyond music production. He served as the music supervisor for various BET reality series, including "Tiny and Toya," "Frankie & Neffie," "Monica: Still Standing," "Hell Date," and "Played by Fame."

Chris 'The Glove' Taylor's enduring influence and ongoing contributions underscore his status as a pivotal figure in the West Coast hip-hop legacy.

Doug E. Fresh

Doug E. Fresh, born as Douglas Davis, is a Barbados-born American rapper, record producer, and beatboxer, known as the "Human Beat Box" and a pioneer of beatboxing in the 20th century. He can accurately imitate drum machines and various special effects using only his mouth, lips, gums, throat, tongue, and a microphone.

Doug E. Fresh was born in Barbados, with family roots also in Trinidad and Tobago. His grandfather brought him to Harlem, where he was raised alongside his mother. Initially interested in music, Fresh attended a school with a music program, playing drums, percussion, and trumpet. However, due to budget cuts in the music department, he had to return the trumpet.

He was introduced to rap by his brother, who brought tapes of Grandmaster Flash and Furious Five and DJ Hollywood into the house. He started participating in rap sessions with a group called D & D Express, where he experimented with beatboxing. Fresh was also a fan of Langston Hughes and won the local Langston Hughes award.

His interest in beatboxing grew as he listened to records from artists like Grandmaster Flash, Spoonie Gee, and Funky 4 + 1. He stood out at a party in the Lincoln Projects in East Harlem, where he rapped and beatboxed live. Eventually, Kurtis Blow recruited him to beatbox in his performances.

In his musical career, Doug E. Fresh released "The Show" and "La Di Da Di" with the Get Fresh Crew, two of the early hip-hop classics. "La Di Da Di" is one of the most sampled songs in music history.

After a few successful albums, Doug E. Fresh faced a hiatus and returned in 1992 with the album "Doin' What I Gotta Do." Over the years, he continued to contribute to hip-hop music, collaborating with other artists and, more recently, releasing the album "This One's for Chuck Brown: Doug E. Fresh Salutes The Godfather of Go-Go" in 2021.

Apart from music, Fresh is also known for his appearance on American Idol, his participation in award events, and his role as a celebrity judge on the Apollo Live TV show. He received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the American Beatbox Championships in 2019.

Doug E. Fresh is a member of the Church of Scientology and performed at events of the church. He also opened a store called Doug E.'s Chicken and Waffles in Harlem, inspired by Sylvia's.

In his personal life, he faced financial challenges, including foreclosure and IRS tax liens. He has a foundation called Hip Hop Public Health and six sons. Additionally, he manages the hip-hop group Square Off, consisting of his sons Slim and Trips.

Doug E. Fresh continues to be an influential figure in the hip-hop scene, recognized not only for his impact on music but also for his contributions to the community and public health.

Discography:

Oh, My God! (1986)
The World's Greatest Entertainer (1988)
Doin' What I Gotta Do (1992)
Play (1995)

Egyptian Lover

DJ Roots with Uncle Jamm's Army: Egyptian Lover started his musical journey in Los Angeles as a DJ with Uncle Jamm's Army, performing at massive events, including dances at the L.A. Sports Arena for crowds of up to 10,000 people.

Radio Crew and Uncle Jamm's Army: In 1982, he became part of the Radio Crew and continued contributing to the vibrant music scene fostered by Uncle Jamm's Army.

Collaborations with Hip-Hop Icons: Engaged with influential groups like Uncle Jamm's Army and the World Class Wreckin' Cru, featuring members like Dr. Dre, The Unknown DJ, Ice-T, and Kid Frost. These collaborations played a crucial role in shaping the early West Coast Hip-Hop sound during the 1980s.

Early Recordings: Egyptian Lover's early recordings, mostly 12" singles, contributed significantly to the b-boy culture. "Egypt, Egypt" became one of his most popular tracks.

On the Nile (1984): Released in 1984, "On the Nile" showcased an alternate mix of his hit single "Egypt, Egypt" and achieved moderate success, reaching the Billboard Top 200. It was recognized as one of the first hip-hop records emerging from the West Coast.

Analog Tradition: Throughout his career, Egyptian Lover adhered to an all-analog approach, using equipment like the Roland TR-808, reminiscent of his 1980s recordings.

Record Label: Established Egyptian Empire Records, featuring artists like Rodney O & Joe Cooley and 2 O'Clock & Te & Joezee.

Back from the Tomb (1994): After a hiatus in the early 1990s, Egyptian Lover returned with "Back from the Tomb," marking his comeback after over a decade.

2015 Release - 1984: Continuing the analog tradition, his 2015 release "1984" paid homage to his earlier albums and was recorded in studios with historical significance to his career.

Collaborated with artists like Jamie Jupiter, Dez Dickerson, Clone Machine, Egypt Ear Werk, Jamie Jones, M.I.A., and others.

Released singles on iTunes, worked on projects like "They Killed the Radio," and contributed to new compilations.

Resumed touring in 2004, captivating audiences across Europe, Asia, and North America.

Known for his dynamic performances, blending turntable mixing with live renditions of his original compositions.

Egyptian Lover's legacy extends beyond his pioneering contributions to the electro and rap scenes. With a commitment to analog authenticity and a career spanning decades, he remains a revered figure in the world of hip-hop and dance music.