August 11th 1973 at 1520 Sedgwick Ave in the West Bronx Hip Hop was born at a birthday party hosted by DJ Kool Herc! Hip Hop Turns 50 This Year and we’re celebrating all 2023!!
If you’ve never seen it…here’s the Kool Herc flyer dated August 11, 1973.
The reason the internet wishes Hip Hop happy birthday every August 11th. pic.twitter.com/0zBWhzHxs0
— KINDA NEAT (@KindaNeat) August 11, 2020
You’re cordially invited to Hip Hop’s 50th Birthday Party with Hot Radio Maine. Weekdays at Noon listen to the Back In The Day Mixtape with DJ Pup Dawg for all your favorite Hip Hop throwbacks. During the 4:20 Throwback B. Aull educates you with On This Date In Hip Hop History. Tune In every Saturday at Noon for a special Hip Hop Turns 50 themed mix hosted by Vijay.
09/27 – A happy 41st birthday to a man who would tell you he’s the best rapper alive and actually have the talent and catalog to back it up, Lil Wayne! To celebrate Weezy, we’re going back to one of his earliest hits as “Go DJ” gets today’s spin.
09/26 – On this day in 2006, Ludacris dropped his 6th studio album, Release Therapy. The Mary J. Blige assisted “Runaway Love” is a worthy candidate, but we’re rolling with “Money Maker” featuring Pharrell to celebrate.
09/25 – A trio of worthy artists are celebrating their birthdays today: Childish Gambino, T.I., and none other than…WILL SMITH. It’s a double nickel birthday for the Fresh Prince as he clocks in at 55…we could go with one of his DJ Jazzy Jeff assisted hits, but…2005’s “Switch” is coming at you.
09/23 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ Buttaball Ed – Noreaga Tribute Mix
09/22 – Happy birthday to our own B. Aull! We’re playing his song “Show & Tell” from his 2019 EP, Collage, to celebrate.
09/21 – Happy birthday to Wale! We don’t have to go too far back for today’s 4:20 Throwback, as the 2021 J.Cole assisted “Poke It Out” is getting the nod.
09/20 – On this day in 1994, Craig Mack dropped his debut album, Project: Funk Da World, so it’s only right that we give “Flava In Ya Ear” a spin.
09/19 – Lupe Fiasco’s classic album, Food & Liquor, dropped on this day in 2006 and it doesn’t get much better than “Kick, Push”.
09/18 – X to the Z, Xzibit was born on this day in 1974. Somehow he found time to pimp countless rides while having a successful music career. We’re playing “X” for his birthday.
09/16 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ Fly – Nas Tribute Mix
09/15 – Kid Cudi released his debut album, Man on the Moon: The End of Day, on this day in 2009. How could we play anything but “Day ‘N’ Nite” to celebrate.
09/14 – Happy 50th birthday to Nas! It’s Virgo season, so of course we have to play “Virgo” featuring Ludacris and Doug E. Fresh.
09/13 – On this day in 1994, The Notorious B.I.G. dropped one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time when he released his debut album, Ready To Die. So many great songs to choose from, like “Unbelievable,” “Big Poppa,” and “Gimme the Loot,” just to name a few, but of course we have to go with the absolute classic, “Juicy.”
09/12 – Happy birthday to Bizzy Bone of Bone Thugs-n-Harmony! He turns 47 today and we’re playing “Tha Crossroads” to celebrate.
09/11 – On this day in 2001, Jay-Z dropped his 6th album, The Blueprint. Of course, the album release coincided with one of the most tragic days in American history as the attack on the Twin Towers in lower Manhattan happened that very morning.
09/09 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ H. Vidal – Ludacris Tribute Mix
09/08 – We’re going back to 2009 because on this day 14 years ago, Jay-Z dropped his 11th studio album, The Blueprint 3. We could go with the obvious picks like “Empire State Of Mind” or “Run This Town”, but “Young Forever” is getting the spin in the album’s honor.
09/07 – Happy birthday to N.W.A.’s own, Eazy-E! Today he would’ve been celebrating his 60th birthday. RIP to the West coast legend, and let’s jump in to “Boyz-n-the-Hood” to celebrate.
09/06 – We’re celebrating the birthday of Foxy Brown! Her 2003 hit “I Need A Man” is getting today’s spin. Honorable mention to “Swagga Like Us” by Jay-Z, Kanye, T.I., and Lil Wayne, which dropped on this day in 2008.
09/05 – On this day in 1989, Young MC dropped his debut album , Stone Cold Rhymin’. The classic “Bust A Move” gets the dance floor moving to this day.
09/04 – Happy birthday Beyoncé! Pop and R&B star? Yes. But she undoubtedly has some great moments giving us bars over the years, too. Her song “Formation” from 2016’s Lemonade is certainly one of those.
09/02 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ H. Vidal – T.I. Tribute Mix
09/01 – Wreckx-N-Effect comes through with their self-titled debut album on this day back in 1989. We’re rocking with the No. 1 hit “New Jack Swing” to celebrate.
08/31 – We’re going back to 2004 because on this day 19 years ago, LL Cool J dropped his album, The DEFinition. The Timbaland produced “Headsprung” is a perfect song to soundtrack the occasion.
08/30 – No sophomore slump for Kanye, as on this day back in 2005 his album Late Registration delivered in a major way. So many great songs to choose from, but we’re rocking with “Heard ‘Em Say”…we miss the old Kanye!
08/29 – On this day in 1995, Junior M.A.F.I.A. released their debut album, Conspiracy. Biggie of course spearheaded the effort, and the single “Get Money” is a great example of that.
08/28 – Mary J. Blige released her fifth album, No More Drama, on this day in 2001 and the Dr. Dre produced “Family Affair” is way too good to ever press the skip button on.
08/26 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ Fly – A Tribe Called Quest Tribute Mix
08/25 – Shock G AKA Humpty Hump would’ve been celebrating his 60th birthday today, may he RIP. How could we play anything the Digital Underground’s “The Humpty Dance” in his honor? Turn it up!
08/24 – 8 & 24…the two numbers the late, great Kobe Bryant wore in his illustrious NBA career. We’re playing Lil Wayne’s “Kobe Bryant” to celebrate the legend.
08/23 – Happy birthday to Lil Yachty! We’re going back to the song that first got him onto the scene in 2015, “1 Night”.
08/22 – Happy birthday to GZA! Doing some touring here in year 57…what’s your excuse? His track “Shadowboxin'” with Method Man off of the album Liquid Swords gets today’s spin.
08/21 – On this date in 2004, Terror Squad’s “Lean Back” went to #1 and for damn good reason. No dance floor was safe when it came on, and still it gets the people going.
08/19 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ Fly – Dr. Dre Tribute Mix
08/18 – Happy birthday to Masta Killa of the Wu-Tang Clan! Many consider his verse on “Da Mystery of Chessboxin'” to be his finest showing, so it’s getting today’s spin.
08/17 – Posdnuos of De La Soul was born on this day in 1969, and it’s always a good time to spin “Me Myself and I”.
08/16 – Safe to say Young Thug did not expect his birthday to be spent how it currently is being spent…but still, birthday celebrations are in order. His track “Stoner” is too good to pass up for today’s 4:20 Throwback.
08/15 – RIP to the late, great Nipsey Hussle – he was born on this day in 1985. We’re playing his track “What It Feels Like” with Jay-Z.
08/14 – N.W.A. releases their EP, 100 Miles And Runnin’, on this day in 1990 – a departure from Ice Cube.
08/12 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay
08/11 – HAPPY BIRTHDAY HIP-HOP! On this day in 1973, DJ Kool Herc threw the party that we all recognize as what birthed Hip-Hop. At 1520 Sedgewick Ave in the Bronx, NY, the Back To School Jam was thrown by Herc, and the rest is history. Also celebrating their birthday today is Ali Shaheed Muhammad of A Tribe Called Quest…”Award Tour” feels very fitting for today’s festivities.
08/10 – It’s 1983 and Run D.M.C. releases their single “It’s Like That / Sucker M.C.’s”. And that’s how it is!
08/09 – Happy birthday to Kurtis Blow and Mack 10! “The Breaks” by Kurtis and “Backyard Boogie” by Mack can set the birthday festivities straight.
08/08 – 12 years ago on this day we got a collab album from 2 of the greats in Jay-Z & Kanye West. There’s a handful of dope tracks to pick from but with “Otis” being the first taste of the album and having such a distinctive sound, it feels like the right choice for today.
08/07 – On this day in 2004, Juvenile and Soulja Slim’s song “Slow Motion” reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
08/05 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ H. Vidal – RUN DMC Tribute Mix
08/04 – It was on this date in 1994 that the Notorious B.I.G. and Faith Evans tied the knot, so it’s only right that we play a collaboration from the two. “One More Chance” should do the trick.
08/03 – We’re going back to 1988 because on this day 35 years ago, DRAM was born! Taking it back to his 2016 hit, “Broccoli”, featuring Lil Yachty.
08/02 – On this date in 1988, Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock released the bonafide classic, “It Takes Two” which still gets the dance floor jumping to this day!
08/01 – August 1st is a busy one! Chuck D of Public Enemy was born on this day in 1960, EPMD released their second album, Unfinished Business, on this day in 1989, Raekwon dropped his debut solo album, Only Built 4 Cuban Linx, on this day in 1995, and last but not least Big L’s 2nd and last album, The Big Picture 1974-1999, dropped on this day in 2000.
07/31 – With Adam Yauch (MCA) diagnosed with cancer, Beastie Boys cancel their appearance at the All Points West festival at Liberty State Park in New Jersey. In tribute, Jay-Z opens his set with a cover of “No Sleep Till Brooklyn.”
07/29 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ H. Vidal – Lil Kim Tribute Mix
07/28 – The first rapper to do any and everything was born on this day in 1990, shout out to the legend that is Soulja Boy! Also the first rapper to ever be born. How could we not “Crank That” for his birthday?
07/27 – Not many can say they’ve had a rap career that’s lasted quite as long as Fat Joe, who released his debut album, Represent, on this day back in 1993. The song “Flow Joe” is a classic with a staple 90’s hip-hop sound.
07/26 – Eric B. & Rakim release their 2nd album, Follow The Leader, on this day in 1988 so of course we have to jump into the title track.
07/25 – One of the most influential artists and producers of our time, Pharrell, drops his debut solo album, In My Mind. No song but “Can I Have It Like That” featuring Gwen Stefani feels right for today.
07/24 – Masta Ace released his debut album, Take A Look Around, on this day back in 1990.
07/22 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ BEZ MUSIQl – Pop Smoke Tribute Mix
07/21 – House of Pain’s self-titled debut album dropped on this day back in 1992, and the only way to celebrate release day properly is to “Jump Around”, so let’s do it.
07/20 – A 4:20 Throwback highlighted by Cypress Hill? It just makes sense. On this day in 1993 they released their second album, Black Sunday. We’re playing “Insane In The Brain” to celebrate!
07/19 – We’re going back to 1994 to celebrate the release of Coolio’s debut album, It Takes A Thief. His song “Fantastic Voyage” is getting today’s spin. RIP to Coolio!
07/18 – On this date in 2020, five months after his murder, Pop Smoke goes #1 in the U.S. with his debut album Shoot For The Stars, Aim For The Moon. 50 Cent, a mentor to the young artist, helped complete the album after Pop’s passing so today we play “The Woo” featuring the 2 artists together on one track. RIP Pop!
07/17 – Happy birthday to Guru of Gang Starr! If he were still here today, he’d be celebrating his 62nd birthday. RIP to the man with “Mass Appeal”.
07/15 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ H. Vidal – Missy Elliot Tribute Mix
07/14 – On this date in 1998, the Beastie Boys released their fifth album, Hello Nasty. “Intergalactic” has to be the go-to for today.
07/13 – Happy birthday to the late, great, MF DOOM! Perhaps slept on by the mainstream, hip-hop heads everywhere know he was one of them ones. We’re turning his birthday into “Doomsday” for today’s 4:20 Throwback.
07/12 – 2 great movies in hip-hop history hold some weight today – on this day in 1991, Ice Cube hits the big screen as Boyz N The Hood releases in theaters. On this day in 2005, the Hustle & Flow soundtrack released a week before the movie hit theaters.
07/11 – Happy birthday to Lil Kim! Her hit “How Many Licks” featuring Sisqo still gets the party going to this day.
07/10 – One half of the legendary Kid ‘n Play, Christopher Martin, celebrates his 61st birthday today. We’re playing their song “Ain’t Gonna Hurt Nobody” to celebrate.
07/08 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay – Drake & 21 Savage Tribute Mix in honor of our Drake Night tonight at The Bar & Bites in the Old Port – come win some Drake & 21 Savage tickets!
07/07 – It’s been 36 years since the release of Eric B. & Rakim’s Paid In Full, an absolutely classic and defining hip-hop album. We’re playing “I Ain’t No Joke” for it’s birthday.
07/06 – We just hooked it up with tickets to see this guy, so we have to celebrate his birthday properly – a major birthday shout out to 50 Cent! No song’s more fitting for the occasion than “In Da Club”.
07/05 – Happy birthday to 2 great artists and producers – Royce Da 5’9″ and Wu-Tang Clan’s RZA!
07/04 – Happy 4th of July! On this day in 2013 Jay-Z dropped Magna Carta Holy Grail – the title track featuring frequent collaborator, Justin Timberlake, gets today’s spin.
07/03 – 4th of July festivities have begun as we play nothing but throwbacks all day today and tomorrow – but on this day in 1995 D’Angelo dropped his debut album, Brown Sugar, which has been sampled in countless hip-hop songs from artists like The Game, Drake, and many more.
07/01 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ H. Vidal – Public Enemy Tribute Mix
06/30 – On this day in 2017 Jay-Z dropped his album, 4:44. It’s only right that the title track gets a spin for today’s 4:20 Throwback.
06/29 – Biggie’s debut single, “Party And Bullshit” turns 30 years old today. The years to follow would see one of the greatest rap careers we’ve ever known, and in such a short period of time. RIP to the Notorious B.I.G.!
06/28 – Today marks the 35th anniversary of Public Enemy’s 2nd album, It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back. Allow us to “Bring The Noise” to celebrate.
06/27 – It’s the 23 year anniversary of one of the biggest debut albums of all time, none other than Nelly’s Country Grammar! A true game changer, and the hits still ring true to this day. Time to play that title track!
06/26 – The founder of Murder Inc., Irv Gotti, is celebrating his birthday today. He produced and curated music from a handful of artists you know and love, like Ja Rule, Ashanti, and Fat Joe, just to name a few. We’re playing “Down 4 U” with Ja Rule, Ashanti, Charli Baltimore, and Vita from the album Irv Gotti Presents: The Inc.
06/24 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay – Ice Cube Tribute Mix
06/23 – We’re going back to 1992 because on this day 31 years ago we received the final album from Eric B. & Rakim, Don’t Sweat The Technique. The title tracks says it all.
06/22 – On this day in 1999, Missy Elliot dropped her 2nd album, Da Real World, produced entirely by Timbaland. “She’s A B*tch” feels like the right choice for today.
06/21 – Happy 53rd birthday to Pete Rock! “They Reminisce Over You” with CL Smooth remains a certified classic.
06/20 – It’s been 6 years since the passing of Mobb Deep’s Prodigy. RIP to a legend! “Shook Ones Pt. II” should do the trick.
06/19 – Happy Juneteenth! So many great songs to choose from to celebrate this great holiday, but we’re rolling with “Alright” from Kendrick Lamar’s, To Pimp A Butterfly.
06/17 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay – 2Pac Tribute Mix
06/16 – Capping off a string of birthdays this week is none other than the icon, a fallen legend, and a man we surely would’ve seen accomplish so much more if he wasn’t taken far too soon…RIP and happy birthday to 2Pac!
06/15 – “It Was A Good Day” the day that Ice Cube was born…happy birthday to the NWA frontman himself!
06/14 – Happy birthday to Freddie Gibbs! His collaborative projects with Madlib over the past decade have been staples for hip-hop heads, and his song “Too Much” with Moneybagg Yo is a heater.
06/13 – We’re going back to 2006 to celebrate the anniversary of Busta Rhymes’ album, The Big Bang. His song “Touch It” can still make a dance floor move to this day.
06/12 – On this day in 2009 at the Bonnaroo music festival, the Beastie Boys performed together for the very last time before Adam Yauch (MCA) was diagnosed with cancer. Today we’re playing “Ch-Check It Out” from 2004. RIP to MCA!
06/10 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay – Kendrick Lamar Tribute Mix
06/09 – On this day in 1989, LL Cool J released his 3rd album, Walking With a Panther. To celebrate, we’re “Going Back To Cali” for today’s 4:20 Throwback.
06/08 – It’s the birthday of an icon…one who, let’s just say, we miss the old him. Happy birthday to Kanye West! Since we miss the old him, we’re playing “Through The Wire” for today’s throwback.
06/07 – A couple of great hip-hop projects dropped on this day in history – EPMD’s debut album, Strictly Business, in 1988 and Warren G’s debut album, Regulate…G Funk Era, in 1994.
06/06 – On this day in 2003, 2 Fast 2 Furious hit theaters…and 20 years later, they’re still going strong and all about FAMILY. Ludacris’ “Act A Fool” was undoubtedly the theme song for the film, so it’s our 4:20 Throwback today!
06/05 – Marky Mark & The Funky Bunch delivered us the 90’s classic “Good Vibrations” and for Mark’s birthday today, that’s all we can ask for!
06/03 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay – Post Malone Tribute Mix – Giving away tickets all next week 06/05-06/09!
06/02 – It’s B-Real’s birthday! The Cypress Hill member contributed to a number of great 4:20 throwbacks, and for his 53rd birthday we’re rocking with “Hits From The Bong” to celebrate.
06/01 – On this day in 1999 Ja Rule released his debut album, Venni Vetti Vecci. One of the standout tracks, “It’s Murda” features the likes of DMX and Jay-Z. Nothing but legends on the track for today’s throwback.
05/31 – Happy birthday to the legendary Darryl “D.M.C.” McDaniels of Run D.M.C.! He was born on this day in 1964. “It’s Tricky” feels like the only joint that makes sense for the day.
05/30 – Today marks what would’ve been the 49th birthday of the late, great, Big L. Like a number of great NY rappers of the 90’s, his life and career were cut much shorter than they should’ve been. We’re playing his song “Flamboyant” on his birthday.
05/29 – On this day in 1987 we got the 2nd album from LL Cool J, Bigger And Deffer. We’re playing “I’m Bad” in celebration.
05/27 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ Menace – The Lox Tribute Mix
05/26 – Eminem’s album “The Eminem Show” is officially old enough to drink! On this day 21 years ago, Shady dropped his 4th album, and we’re playing “Without Me” to celebrate.
05/25 – On this day in 1996, the Fugees’ iconic album The Score went #1 on the charts. Lauryn Hill absolutely shined on the classic, “Killing Me Softly”.
05/24 – G-Eazy celebrates his 34th birthday! Over the past decade plus, the Bay Area rapper has had a lot of success whether it be with pop-crossover joints like “Him & I” featuring Halsey, or, what we’re playing today, “No Limit” with A$AP Rocky and Cardi B.
05/23 – 28 years ago, Hip-Hop was right in the middle of what many would consider it’s “golden age” and with it, came some experimenting. With hooks being sang as opposed to rapped becoming more prominent, Luniz’s “I Got 5 On It” became a defining song of the era. It came out on this day in 1995, and is still an anthem to this day.
05/22 – On this day in 2010 Eminem’s “Not Afraid” went #1 in the U.S. for the very first time.
05/20 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ H. Vidal – Busta Rhymes Tribute Mix
05/19 – Sometimes you’re just in the mood for something a little more ratchet, and since we’re celebrating Yo Gotti’s 42nd birthday today, it’s only right we spin the Nicki Minaj assisted “Rake It Up” from 2017.
05/18 – It’s the 56th birthday of one of Hip Hop’s pioneers, a big birthday shout out to Rob Base! We’re going back to his 1988 hit, “It Takes Two” with DJ EZ Rock to celebrate.
05/17 – The boundaries of Hip Hop constantly get pushed here in it’s 50th year, and on this day in 2019, Tyler, The Creator released an album that would showcase that in full when he dropped Igor. The album would go on to become his first #1 album and won him the Grammy for Best Rap Album. The hit single “Earfquake” having a lot to do with that!
05/16 – We have a birthday and the release of a debut album all in one! Shout out to Special Ed who was not only born on this day in 1972, but at the age of 17 in 1989 celebrated by dropping his debut album, Youngest In Charge. We’re playing “I Got It Made” to celebrate.
05/15 – We’re going back to 1986 because on this day, 37 years ago, Run DMC released their third album, Raising Hell. This album produced one of the first big genre-bending hip-hop hits in “Walk This Way” featuring Aerosmith.
05/13 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ Fly – Wu-Tang Tribute Mix
05/12 – On this day in 1998, we received the debut album from the legendary DMX when he dropped the highly anticipated, It’s Dark And Hell Is Hot. Swizz Beatz recently told a funny story about how X never wanted to do “Ruff Ryders Anthem”, but ultimately lost a bet that led to him not only making the song but placing it on the album. The rest is history.
05/11 – It’s been 30 years to the day since Onyx declared the second single for their debut album, Bacdafucup. The single in question? None other than “Slam”, which still to this day remains a classic party starter.
05/10 – It’s been just over 5 years since we lost one of the OG members of Bad Boy, Craig Mack. Today would’ve been his 52nd birthday. We of course have to play his 1994 hit single, “Flava in Ya Ear” to celebrate.
05/09 – Happy birthday to Ghostface Killah! He turns 53 years old today. Of course, his contributions to the legendary Wu-Tang Clan speak for themselves. Today we play “Daytona 500” featuring Wu-Tang members Raekwon and Cappadonna to celebrate.
05/08 – In 2001 we got the acting debut of Beyonce when she starred in Carmen: A Hip Hopera, which premiered on this day on MTV. A star-studded cast included Mekhi Phifer, Mos Def, Bow Wow, Wyclef Jean, and more. The soundtrack was mostly highlighted by Beyonce and Destiny’s Child, but another standout comes by way of Royce Da 5’9″ and his song, “Boom”.
05/06 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ Bez Musiq – Meek Mill Tribute Mix
05/05 – On this day in 1976, Hi-Tek was born! He’s produced a number of songs for artists such as Big L, Common, Ghostface Killah, Mos Def, Phife Dawg, The Game, Anderson .Paak, and more! We’re playing “Best Friend” by 50 Cent and Olivia.
05/04 – It was this day in 2012 that we lost the Beastie Boys legend Adam Yauch, better known as MCA. A pivotal player in one of hip-hop’s earliest and most influential groups – we play “Brass Monkey” from the album, Licensed to Ill.
05/03 – Some would say Lil Wayne was at the peak of his powers in the late 2000’s, and his smash hit “Lollipop” went #1 on Billboard on this day in 2008 to back that up.
05/02 – We’re going back to 1995 because on this day 28 years ago, Masta Ace released the album Sittin’ On Chrome. Let’s take “The I.N.C. Ride” to celebrate.
05/01 – On this day in 1991 marks the first time that MTV Unplugged featured rap acts! They had acts such as De La Soul, MC Lyte, and A Tribe Called Quest hit the stage but it was LL Cool J who ultimately stole the show with a shirtless (as he often was) rendition of “Mama Said Knock You Out”
04/29 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ H. Vidal – State Property Mix
04/28 – Too $hort turns 57! The Bay Area legend goes on and on and, to this day, so does the dance floor when “Blow The Whistle” gets played.
04/27 – Today we look back to 1999 when Naughty By Nature released their 5th album, Nineteen Naughty Nine: Nature’s Fury. This album features not only the hit “Jamboree”, but also a song with some Maine ties as “Radio” features Rustic Overtones.
04/26 – The debut album of one of the most influential hip-hop groups of all time dropped on this day in 1994 when Outkast released Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik. We’re headed to the “Player’s Ball” to celebrate.
04/25 – We’re going back to 1992 because on this day 31 years ago, “Jump” by Kris Kross hit #1 in the U.S., where it would stay for 8 weeks.
04/24 – On this day in 1999, Nas’ album “I Am…” topped the Billboard 200 for the first time. We’re playing “Hate Me Now” featuring Diddy.
04/22 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ Fly – Method Man & Redman Tribute Mix
04/21 – It was on this day in 2014 that Big Sean became the first rapper in history to perform at the White House when he performed “Right There” with his boo at the time, Ariana Grande.
04/20 – Today marks 13 years since we lost one-half of one of the greatest hip-hop duos of all time, RIP to Guru of Gang Starr. For 4/20 it feels fitting that we play one of his stand-out moments, fittingly titled, “Above The Clouds”.
04/19 – One of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time came out on this day in 1994 when Nas decided to drop an amazing debut in Illmatic. NY State Of Mind. Life’s A Bitch. Halftime. Represent. So many classics.
04/18 – It was on this day in 2000 that one of the most controversial artists of the era, and perhaps of all time, Eminem, dropped “The Real Slim Shady”. This was the first single from his album, The Marshall Mathers LP.
04/17 – Today we celebrate the 53rd birthday of one of the most charismatic artists hip-hop has seen, Redman! To celebrate, we’re going back to his 2001 hit, “Let’s Get Dirty”, which was also a staple in the soundtrack for Def Jam: Fight For NY.
04/15 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ Fly – Neptunes Tribute Mix
04/14 – 50 years of hip-hop and 49 years of Da Brat! She’s celebrating her birthday today and so of course we have to go back to 1994 for her song “Funkafied”
04/13 – On this day in 2015, Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth’s “See You Again” broke the then Spotify record for most streams by a song in a single day with 4.2 million streams.
04/12 – We don’t have to go too far back for this one, and if you were in high school when this dropped you already know the school dances turned into dance battles when this came on. Teach Me How To Dougie! It was on this day in 2010 that Cali Swag District dropped one of the best dance tracks of all time.
04/11 – On this day in 1995 we received the soundtrack for an absolutely classic movie, Friday! So many great artists graced the mic for this one – Dr. Dre, The Isley Brothers, Cypress Hill, 2 Live Crew, and more, but of course we have to rock with the star of the film and the title track, Ice Cube’s “Friday”.
04/10 – Today we celebrate the 53rd birthday of A Tribe Called Quest’s own, Q-Tip! His debut solo album, Amplified, dropped in 1999, and “Vivrant Thing” is feeling like the perfect choice for today’s 4:20 Throwback!
04/08 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ Menace – DMX Tribute Mix
04/07 – 31 years ago on this day, we received the debut album from a group that often gets underrated when talking about 90’s hip-hop – Das EFX! Today we play “Mic Checka” from that debut album, Dead Serious.
04/06 – On this day in 1999 one of the GOAT’s, Nas, dropped his third album, I Am…. It’s only right that we play “Nas Is Like” to celebrate.
04/05 – Today we’re celebrating 50 years of hip-hop and 50 years of Pharrell! One half of The Neptunes and a hell of a solo career with countless hits on his hands, we’re going back to 2006 for a song that sometimes goes forgotten – “Can I Have It Like That” with Gwen Stefani!
04/04 – It’s been 28 years since Montell Jordan released his debut studio album, This Is How We Do It. It might not be a Friday night, but today we’ll be celebrating like it is as well play the title track that still to this day gets the party started.
04/03 – Today marks the 31st birthday of Young M.A! Fun fact – B. Aull did a show with her at the University of Southern Maine back in 2019. Her hit song “OOOUUU” had people going crazy when it dropped in 2017, so today we play it to celebrate!
04/01 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay – Nipsey Hussle Tribute Mix
03/31 – It’s been 4 years since we lost one of the truly great independent hip-hop pioneers, none other than LA’s own, Nipsey Hussle. More than just a great artist and advocate for independent hip-hop artists, he was heavily respected for his community activism where he focused on giving solutions and inspiration to young black men growing up in LA as he did. The Marathon Continues. Today we play “Last Time That I Checc’d”. RIP to a legend!
03/30 – One of NY’s most energetic groups, Onyx, helped define hip-hop during it’s golden era of the ’90s, and on this day in 1993 they released their debut album, Bacdafucup. The first single from the album, “Throw Ya Gunz”, wins the day.
03/29 – We’re going back to 1988, when Will Smith was known primarily as a rapper. On this day 35 years ago, DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince released their second studio album, He’s The DJ, I’m The Rapper. Of course, we gotta hit you with that “Brand New Funk”.
03/28 – It’s been 28 years since we returned to the 36 chambers with the legendary Ol’ Dirty Bastard! It was on this day in 1995 that the Wu-Tang legend released his solo debut album, Return to the 36 Chambers, the same day that Big L dropped his debut studio album, Lifestylez ov da Poor & Dangerous. A great day for hip-hop! “Shimmy Shimmy Ya” is how we’re getting down today. RIP to ODB!
03/27 – On this day in 1984 the legendary Run DMC released their self-titled debut studio album and a legendary career was underway. So don’t ask me why we’re playing this song today, because “It’s Like That” and that’s the way it is!
03/25 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ Buttaball Ed – Dipset Mix
03/24 – It’s been 31 years since Arrested Development released their debut album, 3 Years, 5 Months & 2 Days in the Life Of…, so it only makes sense that we play “People Everyday” to celebrate.
03/23 – We’re going back to 1999 because on this day 24 years ago the player and the poet known as none other than Atlanta’s Outkast released their single “Rosa Parks” from their classic album, Aquemini.
03/22 – Today we mourn the loss of a hip-hop legend, Phife Dawg, as he passed away on this day in 2016. Hard to believe it’s already been 7 years. The songs he made with A Tribe Called Quest will live on forever, and thankfully so, as Phife was one of the best to grace the mic. ATCQ’s “Electric Relaxation” should do the trick. RIP Phife!
03/21 – It was on this day in 1966 that one of the greatest hip-hop producers of all time was born, a big happy birthday to DJ Premier! He’s produced some classic golden era hip-hop songs over the years such as Jay-Z’s “D’Evils”, Big L & Fat Joe’s “The Enemy”, Notorious B.I.G.’s “Unbelievable”, and of course “Mass Appeal” and “Above The Clouds” from his own group, Gang Starr. Today we play maybe the most well-known song that Premier produced, Nas’ “NY State Of Mind”.
03/20 – Happy birthday to Big Tymers’ own, Mannie Fresh! The producer and rapper himself had a hand in a lot of the Hot Boys and Cash Money’s early success, and songs like “Real Big” solidified his prowess, but “Still Fly” with the Big Tymers feels like the obvious choice as we celebrate Mannie’s 54th birthday.
03/18 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay – Megan Thee Stallion Mix
03/17 – Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Back in 1992, House of Pain filmed the music video for their hit song “Jump Around” at the New York City St. Patrick’s Day parade, forever linking the two together since. Frontman, Everlast, was even rocking a Boston Celtics jersey in the video. Good to know he’s a fan of the good guys (surely that’s why he was wearing it).
03/16 – Public Enemy’s own Flavor Flav is celebrating his 64th birthday today! Almost as notable as his PE career was his time spent on his own reality TV show, The Flavor of Love. We all tapped in, don’t deny it. We’re playing his song “911 Is A Joke” in celebration.
03/15 – It was on this day in 2011 that we lost one of the greatest voices in hip-hop, Captain Hook himself, nobody does it better than the one and only, Nate Dogg. From his solo career to his plethora of head bobbing hook features (Area Codes, 21 Questions, I Like That) the man had a gift and the voice to match. Today we play arguably his most notable effort, with Warren G, the legendary “Regulate”.
03/14 – Today marks the 28-year anniversary of 2Pac’s 3rd studio album, Me Against The World. To honor him, the album, and 50 years of hip-hop, it’s only right that we play “Old School”, in which 2Pac pays homage to a number of hip-hop greats that came before him.
03/13 – Big birthday for the renowned rapper, producer, poet, and actor, Common! He’s turning 51 years old today so we had to spin the Jay Dilla produced “The Light” from Common’s album, Like Water For Chocolate.
03/11 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ Fly – Timbaland Mix
03/10 – A couple of legendary producers are celebrating their birthdays today. Shout out to a man whose sound defined the 2000s and has some of the nicest drums we’ve heard to date, Timbaland! He’s turning 51, and shares his birthday with Def Jam co-founder and the man who played a major role in the careers of some of hip-hop’s earliest stars, Rick Rubin! Celebrating the big 60. March 10th got some sizzle to it.
03/09 – It was on this day 26 years ago that we lost one of the greatest, if not THE greatest, voices to ever grace the mic…the untimely loss of the Notorious B.I.G. will forever be a tough pill to swallow. Who knows what else he would’ve accomplished in his life and career, but with the short time he had he left an everlasting impression. RIP to Biggie, we’re playing “Party and Bullshit” to celebrate a fallen legend.
03/08 – One of the greatest hip-hop duos of all time released their 4th studio album, Hard To Earn, on this day in 1994 – of course I’m talking about Gang Starr! RIP to Guru, him and DJ Premier made some amazing music during hip-hop’s golden age. We play “Mass Appeal” to celebrate the anniversary.
03/07 – We’re going back to 1995 because on this day 28 years ago, Dr. Dre dropped his single, “Keep Their Heads Ringin'”. The song was part of the soundtrack for the absolute classic starring Ice Cube and Chris Tucker, Friday.
03/06 – The Big Diesel, Superman, The Big Shamrock, The Big Shaqtus, The Big Aristotle…the nicknames go on and on for today’s biggest birthday, NBA legend, Shaquille O’Neal! At the age of 52, he’s seen success in a number of fields. Whether it’s basketball, DJing, TV hosting, acting (ok…maybe not), and of course his platinum-selling rap career. “Still Can’t Stop The Reign” with The Notorious B.I.G. feels appropriate as Shaq continues doing everything he set out to and more!
03/04 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ Fly – Big Pun Tribute Mix
03/03 – We’re going back to 1989 because on this day 34 years ago De La Soul released their debut studio album, 3 Feet High and Rising. A group that helped define the golden era of hip-hop and their song, “Me Myself & I”, with its myriad of funk samples is easily one of De La’s early standout tracks.
03/02 – One of Wu-Tang’s OGs and most prominent members, Method Man, is celebrating his 52nd birthday! M-E-T-H-O-D…MAN! We’re celebrating by playing arguably his biggest hit, “You’re All I Need To Get By” with Mary J. Blige from his album, Tical.
03/01 – March is officially here! You know what that means…it’s the 1st of the month! Shout out to Bone Thugs-n-Harmony holding us down 12 times a year
02/28 – On this date in ’04, Usher’s club anthem “Yeah!”, featuring Ludacris and Lil Jon, hits #1 in the United States. It would stay at the top for 12 weeks to become the biggest hit of 2004, and still the biggest hit in our hearts to date. Play this at any function and tell me I’m lying!
02/27 – One of the best-selling girl groups of all time, TLC, celebrates their member Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas’s 52nd birthday! Some great hits to choose from in songs like “Creep” and “Waterfalls”, but today we play “No Scrubs” which is the first time Chilli sings the lead vocals on a TLC song.
02/25 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ H. Vidal – Ja Rule Mix
02/24 – Chad Hugo, one half of the legendary Neptunes, celebrates his 49th birthday! One of the greatest producers of our generation, he has hits on hits under his belt – from pop to hip-hop and R&B.
02/23 – It was this day 24 years ago, the last year of the millennium, that one of the most controversial rappers ever burst onto the scene letting the world know exactly what his name is…SLIM SHADY! Eminems drops his second studio album, The Slim Shady LP.
02/22 – On this day in 2000, the late, great Aaliyah released her single “Try Again” with Timbaland. Such an amazing career and discography in a life that was cut far too short. RIP Aaliyah!
02/21 – The Grammy’s took place on this day in 2001, highlighted by a somewhat controversial performance of “Stan” by Eminem and Elton John. The duo took the stage together to show unity between an openly gay artist in Elton John and Eminem who, at the time, had a lot of questions swirling about his character and whether or not he was homophobic, thanks to some of the lyrics in his songs. We play their live version of “Stan” for today’s 4:20 Throwback!
02/20 – On this day in 1996, one of the most influential hip-hop singles of all time dropped when Jay-Z released his single, “Dead Presidents”. Coincidentally, it’s President’s Day today…
02/18 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ Fly – De La Soul Mix – Paying tribute to Trugoy The Dove who passed on Sunday
02/17 – On this day in 1988 DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince dropped their single, “Parents Just Don’t Understand”, one of the earliest and well-known entries of Will Smith’s music career.
02/16 – It’s Lupe Fiasco’s birthday! One of Chicago’s best told us how much the genre means to him in his song “Hip-Hop Saved My Life” and what better way to celebrate both Lupe’s 41st and Hip-Hop’s 50th than to play that for our 4:20 Throwback.
02/15 – On this day in 1999, we lost one of hip-hop’s greatest voices when the legendary Big L passed far too soon. Many remember him for his quick hitting lyricism and charisma and for songs such as “Put It On” and “Ebonics”, which we play today in his honor!
02/14 – It’s Valentine’s Day! We’re celebrating love today as we play the remix of “Real Love” by Mary J. Blige and The Notorious B.I.G.
02/13 – On this day in history the legendary, late, great 2Pac dropped his fourth studio album, All Eyez On Me. “How Do U Want It” with K-Ci & JoJo to this day remains a party starter.
02/11 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ Lazy Kid – Rihanna Super Bowl Pregame
02/10 – On this day in 2004, Kanye West dropped his critically acclaimed debut studio album, The College Dropout. A masterclass in sampling and production, mostly done by West himself, produced classic hits such as “All Falls Down”, “Jesus Walks”, “Slow Jamz”, and for today’s 4:20 Throwback, “Through The Wire”.
02/09 – Two hip-hop fun facts for you on this day – in 2011, Nicki Minaj’s “Pink Friday” reaches #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and, even further back, in 1993 Digable Planets releases their debut album, Reachin’ (A New Refutation of Time and Space), featuring the popular single “Rebirth of Slick (Cool Like Dat)”. They sure did love the double titles.
02/08 – Anderson .Paak celebrates his 36th birthday! One of the most talented musicians of this generation as he blends sounds of hip-hop, R&B, soul, and funk, but not many people remember how his sound has changed over the years. We go back to 2014 and one of his earliest hits, “Drugs”, to celebrate.
02/07 – Celebrating two absolute legends who would have undoubtedly continued on in creating timeless music: Jay Dilla and Big Pun. Dilla’s album, Donuts, dropped on this day (his birthday!) in 2006. On this day in 2000 we lost one of the greatest rappers to grace the mic in Big Pun – and he’s STILL Not a Player. RIP to some hip-hop royalty!
02/06 – Go shawty! It’s ya birthday! 20 years of Get Rich or Die Tryin’, the debut studio album from none other than NY’s own 50 Cent. A certified classic and easily one of the top hip-hop albums and debuts of all time. Of course, we’re “In Da Club” to celebrate.
02/04 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ DJ H. Vidal – Rick Ross Mix
2/03 – The king of Reggaeton, Daddy Yankee, celebrates his 46th trip around the sun. Reggaeton evolved from dancehall in Puerto Rico and draws strong influence from hip-hop, with artists like Daddy Yankee bringing it to the mainstream with hits like “Gasolina” and “Rompe” for decades.
2/02 – Shakira celebrates her 46th birthday…and her hips still don’t lie. The Latin-pop and reggaeton-infused record featuring a verse from Wyclef Jean still remains a party starter to this day!
2/01 – Half of the legendary ATL duo Outkast and Hot Summer alum Big Boi celebrates his 48th birthday! Here’s to celebrations that last “All Night” as we play one of the most successful solo singles of his career
01/31 – Wu-Tang Clan released their single “C.R.E.A.M.” on this day in 1994, arguably their most popular and well-recognized song in their impressive catalog
01/30 – Kid Cudi turns 39 years old today! One of the most influential artists of the last 15 years as his crooning has soundtracked many of his fans’ memories, and for that we play “Memories” by Kid Cudi & David Guetta
01/28 12PM
HIP HOP TURNS 50 THEMED MIX
Hosted by Vijay w/ Bez Musiq – J. Cole Bday Mix
01/27 – On this day in 2004, legendary Chicago rapper Twista releases his album “Kamikaze” which features some of this most popular songs such as “Slow Jamz” and “Overnight Celebrity”
01/26 – Today marks 3 years since the passing of the late, great, NBA legend Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna, and the 7 others who were in that shocking helicopter crash in 2020. To celebrate his legacy, we play Lil Wayne’s “Kobe Bryant” from 2009. RIP!
01/25 – OTD in 1981, Alicia Keys was born! One of the greatest singers and songwriters of our generation, she’s had hits like “No One” and “If I Ain’t Got You” while contributing to major songs like “Empire State of Mind” and “My Boo”
01/24 – OTD in 1970, Sleepy Brown of Organized Noise was born! He sings the hook of Outkast’s “The Way You Move”, “So Fresh, So Clean”, and has been a frequent collaborator and mentor of theirs over the years
01/23 – 2007 MIMS released his debut single “This Is Why I’m Hot”
