So, for many years, I've been blessed to be involved in Philly's Hip Hop scene as an MC, DJ, beatmaker, writer, show organizer, and appreciator.

In the spirit of love and appreciation for my city, I wanted to do a thread touching on some lesser-known aspects of Philly Hip Hop:

I had the pleasure of interviewing Lady B for the piece I wrote on the Women of Philly Hip Hop's first generation. She's a pioneer in every sense of the word.

This is my piece on the Women of Philly Hip Hop in the 80s. Philly has consistently produced the best Women MCs across eras, I'll share some of the Women of the 90s and 2000s later. https://thekey.xpn.org/2020/03/03/women-philly-hip-hop-80s/

Schoolly D rocking at the legendary Latin Quarter in NYC.

Pre-dating Hip Hop's formal introduction as a culture, North Philly artist Darryl "Cornbread" McCray invented graffiti as we know it.

He infamously tagged on The Jackson 5's private jet and an elephant in the Philadelphia Zoo.

Lasy B also had her own radio show in the 80s. Lots of folks got inspired to rap, DJ and make beats from listening to her

A classic film that gives insight into Philly's gang war movement of the 60s, which served as a sort of proto-culture for Hip Hop. In addition to the graffiti, you'll notice that the gang members also do their own rhyming routines.

A young Jazzy Jeff getting busy

The infamous battle between Big Daddy Kane and South Philly's own Jazz Fresh. S/O to @KevinBeacham for uploading this.

Jazz Fresh's clashes with Kane were legendary back in the day.

DJ Spinbad and Force 5 displaying classic Philly party-rocking

MC Parry P talks rap and Philly slang in the 80s.