KRS-One’s Exclusive Livestream To Celebrate Hip-Hop’s 50th At Culture’s Bronx Birthplace

Hip-Hop legend KRS-One has extended an invitation to all Hip-Hop enthusiasts across the globe. The iconic rapper and performer will host a momentous livestream “jam” to celebrate the 50th birthday of the Hip-Hop movement, right from where it all began—the legendary Community Center at 1520 Sedgwick Avenue in the Bronx.

Considered hallowed ground, 1520 Sedgwick holds the distinction of being the locale where DJ Kool Herc hosted a part for his sister, Cindy Campbell. It wasn’t long until others like GrandWizzard Theodore and Grandmaster Caz also emerged as groundbreaking pioneers, contributing to the essence of Hip-Hop.

KRS-One’s party will take place Friday (August 11) at 7 p.m. ET with an eclectic mix of artists from diverse backgrounds, all of whom have played a pivotal role in propelling the culture forward over the last five decades. These guests include dancers, painters, DJs, poets and rappers to celebrate the breadth of Hip-Hop’s brilliance.

The experience will be free for fans worldwide and streamed at www.birthplaceofhiphop.nyc.

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KRS-One said, “Hip-Hop began right here in the community room at 1520 Sedgwick. It’s more than just music; it’s a shared bond and a positive message about life, creativity, and communal spirituality that’s woven into the very fabric of this space. Witnessing the constant influx of new artists and their spirit over the past 50 years is a powerful testament to the unstoppable force of Hip-Hop.”

New York City Mayor Eric Adams remarked, “August 11, 1973, was a night that changed history forever. From that humble back-to-school ‘jam,’ Hip Hop’s reach has expanded across the globe, uniting people from all walks of life. Now, with this grand celebration, we pay tribute to the movement that has enriched our lives beyond measure.”

Rapper and ambassador Kurtis Blow said the Hip-Hop community is a testament to the resilience of expression and strength of unity.

“Beyond beats and rhymes, Hip-Hop is the soul of a generation,” he said. “It’s a living legacy that continues to inspire us to stay connected to our roots and amplify our voices.”

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and others helped to defend 1520 Sedgwick Avenue against real estate threats and offered affordable housing to nurture the community’s culture.

For more, follow @birthplaceofhiphop on Instagram or go to www.birthplaceofhiphop.nyc.