On This Day in 1979: The Sugarhill Gang Released One of the First Ever Rap Songs “Rappers Delight”

The start of a genre can rarely be attributed to one song. However, when it comes to rap and hip-hop it can, and it all starts with The Sugarhill Gang in 1979. On this day in 1979, the New Jersey rap group released the song that would change music history forever—”Rappers Delight.”

It was monumental and innovative and became the keystone that the rap and hip-hop world stands upon to this day. Big Bank Hank, Wonder Mike, and Master Gee saw an opportunity coincide with a risk. Although, the payoff of that risk was far too large to ever pass up. Thus, the gang took their chances and introduced a genre of music unheard of by the masses.

The Sugarhill Gang’s Debut Single

The unique sound of the gang would seemingly appear to be coming from a seasoned group of music veterans. That is far from the case, as the song was the gang’s debut single and was released just a few months after their formation. Following its release, the single’s sound led to numerous Billboard placements, including the No. 36 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 4 spot on Billboard’s Hot Soul Singles chart.

Far after its release, the single secured a Grammy Hall of Fame induction, recognition in the National Recording Registry, and a spot on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time list. Even though the gang struck gold with the song, they would go on to have little success in the States. However, they would remain popular in Europe until the mid-80’s. Even though these accolades are commendable, the song’s influence stands above tangible success. Rather, it’s the everlasting influence that the song ensues.

The Irreversible Impact of “Rapper’s Delight”

Once the gang released “Rapper’s Delight” there was no going back. The masses had a taste of hip-hop, loved it, and wanted more than they could even fathom. Well, 45 years later, rap and hip-hop of become an integral part of not just music, but pop culture as a whole. Be that the case, artists such as Queen Latifa, Method Man, and E-40 associate their love for the genre with song.

With older genres such as blues and bluegrass, it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact moment the genre was created. For newer genres such as hip-hop and rap, it’s easier, and that being so many people coin “Rapper’s Delight” as the song that got the ball rolling. If it weren’t for The Sugarhill Gang who knows where rap and hip-hop would be? But good thing we don’t have to worry about thanks to three fellas from Englewood, New Jersey who took an enormous leap of faith.

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