After Rapper’s Delight introduced the world to the underground hip-hop scene, more and more record labels began releasing rap singles. Many preferred the Disco Rap standard created by the Sugar Hill Gang, while others were trying to stick to their hip-hop jam roots. One group did a little bit of both to make their mark – the Funky 4+1.
In this episode of Bring the Noise, we’ll follow the Funky 4 as they form around a duo of DJs, record their first single, and then go on to make history as the first rap crew to be seen on national television. Their story has more ups and downs than a Coney Island roller coaster, so hang on tight for this episode of Bring the Noise: A History of Early Hip-Hop!
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If you have Spotify, search for “Bring the Noise Podcast” and you’ll find a new playlist after each episode with songs from the featured artist, as well as others mentioned in the show. Or you can just click here for the latest playlist.
This episode contains a lot of rare tracks, so the Spotify list is not very complete. Be sure to check out this special YouTube playlist to hear all the music mentioned in this episode.
SHOW NOTES
Spotify Playlist for Episode 4
YouTube Playlist for Episode 4



The Funky 4+1 on Saturday Night Live
The Funky 4+1 perform at The Kitchen in 1980
NAS & AZ Stoop Rap Sprite Commercial
Bomb’s Aren’t Cool – Music Video Shown in U.S. Schools (1986)