Figure · cross-linked record
Afrika Bambaataa
Hip-hop pioneer associated with the Roxy
Biography
Afrika Bambaataa is often cited as a foundational hip-hop figure whose 1980s sets at the Roxy are associated with the music's crossover into downtown nightlife.
Sonic profile
Bambaataa's sound is cited as bridging funk, breakbeats, and European electronic music (the electro template of 'Planet Rock') and his Roxy nights are associated with hip-hop's crossover into downtown clubs.
Rooms they shaped
Roxy
1978–2007 (closed briefly 1989–1990) · Chelsea, Manhattan
DJ, Zulu Nation founder; a key DJ at the 1982–83 Wheels of Steel Fridays.
Webster Hall
1886–present (seven distinct eras) · East Village, Manhattan
DJ, Performed at The Ritz on August 29, 1981 (Bow Wow Wow support bill), a key downtown–uptown crossover moment.
T-Connection
late 1970s–early 1980s · Williamsbridge, Bronx
DJ, Performed frequently; T-Connection was a near-official Zulu Nation venue.
Ecstasy Garage
late 1970s–early 1980s · Morrisania, Bronx
DJ, Performed at Ecstasy Garage; documented on preserved flyers.
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DJ and promoter behind the Berliniamsburg / electroclash party
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