The scene we know as hip-hop today started with a self-proclaimed "kid scientist" in the Bronx. Soon, a new book will trace that entire history.
Over 50 years ago, Joseph Saddler decided to create a new sound in American music. He grew up to become Grandmaster Flash and together with other DJs in his neighborhood, the musical backbone on which hip-hop would be built was born. Birth of a Culture, due out Sept. 22 from Amistad, an imprint of Harper Collins, will tell that story and PEOPLE can exclusively reveal the cover.
Told with Robert "Scoop" Jackson, the new book "tells the chronological and comprehensive origin and extended story of the last great creative contribution," according to the book's official synopsis.
Widely regarded as one of the founding fathers of hip-hop, Grandmaster Flash revolutionized the art of DJing, according to a press release shared with PEOPLE. In his upcoming memoir, he takes readers "back to the Bronx, where it all began — to the block parties, the beats and the brilliance that gave rise to an enduring global phenomenon."
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Best guide to hip hop, soul, reggae concerts & events in San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles & New York City + music, videos, radio and more
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Wednesday, Oct 7 @ Greek Theatre, Berkeley
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