yo! mtv raps Archives - New Hip Hop News

Happy 65th Birthday To Hip Hop Cultural Icon Fab 5 Freddy!

August 30, 2024 by newhiphopnews

What dictates cool? Originality, tenacity, courage, creativity? Is it the will to stand alone beside your own thoughts and ideas or simply just being the first and flyest to ever do”it”? Whatever the definition may be, Bedford-Stuyvesant’s own Fab 5 Freddy was its embodiment throughout the ’80s and ’90s. As the host of Hip Hop’s most important TV show Yo! MTV Raps! Fab brought Hip Hop culture to the living rooms of millions of Americans and thousands abroad. Through the sheer exposure alone, Fab 5 Freddy turned Hip Hop from an underground subculture to the dominating force of a blooming international popular culture.

For a long time, Yo! MTV Raps! was Hip Hop’s grandest stage. It was the Soul Train for the 80s generation and paved the way for shows like TRL and 106 & Park. As its host, Fab Five Freddy was the public’s ambassador to a new and exploding scene. Some of the most historical moments of the culture happened behind Fab Five Freddy’s microphone, and in honor of his born day here is a list of some of the most memorable.

1989 Grammy Boycott

In 1989 The Grammy’s awarded their first Hip hop Grammy to DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince for “Parents Just Don’t Understand,” What could have been a huge moment for Hip Hop culture was turned into a farce. Although the award was given out, the Grammys refused to televise the reception speech. This discrimination outraged the rap community and caused a widespread anti-Grammy campaign to get underway. Fab Five Freddy was actually on the scene and able to get a short interview with The Fresh Prince and Jazzy Jeff about the incident that can be seen in full here.

Interviewing 2Pac with Digital Underground

In one of 2Pac‘s earliest interviews, Fab Five Freddy gets a chance to pick the brain of a young man who would grow to become one of the most influential figures in Hip Hop.

Leaders of the New School Break Up

In one of the tensest interviews ever conducted on Yo! MTV Raps, one of New York’s brightest groups, completely self-destructed on screen. Leaders of the New School had already been under scrutiny with rumors of standout Busta Rhymes looking to venture onto a solo career. What started as a normal interview broke apart into the group stepping off-camera to have a heated discussion. When the pow-wow finally broke up, Busta Rhymes apologized for the group’s actions, concluding the interview. The group officially announced its parting ways in the week following the interview.

Grand Finale Freestyle

In 1995 MTV decided to pull the plug on Yo! MTV Raps. What resulted was one of television’s greatest show finales of all time. With a cypher featuring Rakim, MC Serch, Erick Sermon, Chubb Rock, and a few other legends, Yo! MTV Raps bid a fond farewell to the fans and supporters that tuned in day after day for their daily dose of Hip Hop culture.

The post Happy 65th Birthday To Hip Hop Cultural Icon Fab 5 Freddy! first appeared on The Source.

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Today In Hip Hop History: YO! MTV Raps Debuted On MTV 36 Years Ago

August 6, 2024 by newhiphopnews

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36 years ago on this date, MTV premiered the first episode of the Hip Hop generated video show, YO! MTV Raps.

Everybody has their own personal memory of MTV Raps. Whether it was during the era of comedians Ed Lover and Doctor Dre or during the Fab 5 Freddy reign, YMTVR gave the world its first continual, visual experience of Hip-Hop music. Not to downplay the world famous VJ Ralph McDaniels and the esteemed Video Music Box show based in NYC as well, but the scenarios, special guests, live performances, and other exclusive footage was only available on Music Television’s first Hip Hop show.

Created by late film director Ted Demme, Yo! MTV Raps‘ first video to appear was Rakim’s “Follow The Leader”, which was shown on the 1987 pilot, however, Shinehead’s “Chain Gang” was the actual first video shown during the show’s debut season. It helped spread Hip Hop across the globe with the help of MTV Europe, MTV Asia, and MTV Latino.

The series finale aired on August 17, 1995, with an unforgettable freestyle session. There were several attempts by MTV to relaunch a Hip Hop video show that had a cultural impact like Yo!, including Direct Effect and Sucker Free, however, Yo! MTV Raps remains an unparalleled aspect of Hip Hop culture.

The post Today In Hip Hop History: YO! MTV Raps Debuted On MTV 36 Years Ago first appeared on The Source.

The post Today In Hip Hop History: YO! MTV Raps Debuted On MTV 36 Years Ago appeared first on The Source.

Today In Hip Hop History: YO! MTV Raps Debuted On MTV 36 Years Ago

August 6, 2024 by newhiphopnews

36 years ago on this date, MTV premiered the first episode of the Hip Hop generated video show, YO! MTV Raps.

The post Today In Hip Hop History: YO! MTV Raps Debuted On MTV 36 Years Ago first appeared on The Source.

The post Today In Hip Hop History: YO! MTV Raps Debuted On MTV 36 Years Ago appeared first on The Source.

Ed Lover Net Worth 2024: What Is The “Yo! MTV Raps” Icon Worth?

April 2, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Ed Lover is intrricately involved in the evolution of hip-hop culture and media. He has built a net worth of $5 million by 2024, as reported by CelebrityNetWorth. Lover’s influence spans several decades, during which he has made significant contributions as a rapper, radio host, actor, and comedian. His role in popularizing hip-hop through various media platforms has endeared him to a generation of fans and solidified his status as a pivotal figure in the entertainment industry. Ed Lover’s journey reflects a deep connection to hip-hop culture and an innate ability to engage and entertain diverse audiences.

Pioneering Hip-Hop Media

Ed Lover’s early contributions to hip-hop culture were marked by his co-hosting role on Yo! MTV Raps. It was a groundbreaking television show that brought hip-hop to a global audience. His dynamic presence and genuine enthusiasm for the music helped bridge the gap between the burgeoning hip-hop scene and mainstream media, making the genre more accessible to millions of viewers worldwide. This platform showcased Lover’s charismatic personality and deep-rooted knowledge and passion for hip-hop, contributing to the genre’s explosive growth during the late 80s and early 90s.

Versatility On Air & Beyond

Beyond television, Ed Lover has made significant strides in radio. It further establishing his influence in the media landscape. His tenure as a radio personality has been marked by engaging content and insightful commentary. This has alsoIhas resonated with listeners and contributed to the evolution of hip-hop radio programming. Lover’s ability to adapt and thrive in the changing media environment underscores his versatility and enduring appeal. Additionally, his ventures into acting and stand-up comedy have showcased his wide range of talents, from dramatic roles to comedic performances, highlighting his multifaceted career in entertainment.

Legacy & Continuing Influence

Ed Lover’s legacy in the entertainment industry is measured by his contributions to hip-hop culture. It is also built on his ability to inspire and mentor the next generation of artists and media personalities. His dedication to the growth and preservation of hip-hop culture has made him a respected figure among peers. As he continues to engage with audiences through various platforms, Lover’s impact on entertainment and hip-hop culture remains significant. It furthe reflects an influential and inspiring career.

Ed Lover’s net worth encapsulates a career that has been instrumental in shaping the landscape of hip-hop and entertainment media. From his early days on Yo! MTV Raps to his success in radio and beyond, Ed Lover’s journey is a testament to his talent and commitment to hip-hop culture. His enduring influence and contributions to the industry have paved the way for future generations. Overall, Ed Lover ensured his place as a pivotal figure in the annals of hip-hop history.

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How “Yo! MTV Raps” Defined A Generation Of Hip Hop

September 19, 2023 by newhiphopnews

As far as the union of television and Hip Hop goes, Yo MTV Raps was undefeated during its run. The groundbreaking two-hour music video program significantly contributed to the rise of Hip Hop between the late ‘80s and the early to mid-90s. It shone a much-deserved light on the genre and raised an entire generation of rap enthusiasts. This also happened during a time when Hip Hop did not have half as much publicity as it does right now.

Yo MTV Raps successfully stepped onto the scene to propagate the needed buzz and pushed the genre further into the mainstream. Premiering during the golden age of rap, there was no better time for the show to be on screens. Consequently, it helped introduce the dense pool of hip-hop talent to a wider audience. A reboot series currently airs on Paramount Plus, in an attempt to introduce the famed show to a new generation.

Background Of Yo! MTV Raps

Yo! MTV Raps emerged at a crucial time in the history of Hip Hop and MTV. What resulted was a platform for a genre that would eventually go on to dominate the music industry. MTV launched in 1981 as a cable channel dedicated to music videos, and at its inception, primarily featured rock and pop music. However, throughout the ‘80s, Hip Hop continued to grow in popularity and was becoming increasingly impossible to ignore.

Following Hip Hop’s ascent, there was a growing appreciation for the genre throughout the ‘80s. Similarly, rappers started being taken a lot more seriously for their artistic output. Recognizing the cultural significance and commercial potential of Hip Hop, MTV finally decided to create a dedicated Hip Hop show. Yo MTV Raps was eventually given the green light, and premiered on August 6, 1988, with none other than the iconic rap group, Run-DMC, hosting the pilot episode. Fab 5 Freddy was the original host, before popular MTV VJ, Doctor Dré took over from 1989 until 1995.

Read More: Run-DMC’s Greatest Hits

The Format

The show was conceived as a way to showcase the burgeoning Hip Hop genre and its talents to a broader audience. It was primarily a music video program dedicated to rap music. However, Yo! MTV Raps also provided a more intimate look into the music with interviews with artists, behind-the-scenes segments, and live performances. This format enabled audiences to get an up-close and personal view of the show’s guests, and become more familiar with them. Some of the most lauded hip-hop acts of all time were given spotlights on the show including Nas, NWA, Tupac Shakur, and Public Enemy, among others.

The End of Yo! MTV Raps

Yo! MTV Raps ran for seven years, between 1988 and 1995. During this time, it helped elevate Hip Hop to audiences worldwide. The show played a pivotal role in Hip Hop’s transition from a subculture to a rising mainstream genre. However, the show began to wane in popularity as it drew closer to the mid-90s and ultimately aired its finale in August 1995.

Cultural Impact and Revivals

Yo! MTV Raps played a recognizable role in breaking down racial and cultural barriers. By helping bridge gaps and reduce stereotypes, it was a symbol of unity through music. Although the original show ended in 1995, its legacy lived on with several iterations, although Hip-Hop fans hold a special place in their hearts for the original format. It also paved the way for future Hip Hop television programs and contributed to the genre’s enduring global appeal.

MTV celebrated the 20th and 30th anniversaries of Yo! MTV Raps with short-run revivals of the iconic show on the channel. A revival on Paramount Plus was announced in 2021, and it premiered on May 24, 2022, 27 years after the finale of the original show aired. It has now aired for two seasons on the TV network.

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Today In Hip Hop History: YO! MTV Raps Debuted On MTV 34 Years Ago

August 6, 2022 by newhiphopnews

34 years ago on this date, MTV premiered the first episode of the Hip Hop generated video show, YO! MTV Raps.

The post Today In Hip Hop History: YO! MTV Raps Debuted On MTV 34 Years Ago appeared first on The Source.

‘Yo! MTV Raps’ Co-host Conceited Details His Journey to Reviving the Classic Hip-Hop Series

May 23, 2022 by newhiphopnews

Yo! MTV Raps officially returns on Tuesday, May 24, with new co-hosts Conceited and DJ Diamond Kuts.

According to Conceited, he has campaigned for the show’s revival since he was cast in the reboot of Nick Cannon’s Wild N’ Out almost a decade ago. As one of the show’s most coveted cast members, the Brooklyn native was first noticed by Cannon after making waves as a battle rapper.

Con says that Cannon, a big fan of battle rap, reached out to him via Twitter to tell him about the show’s revival.

“So he (Nick Cannon) hits me on Twitter,” starts Conceited. “He’s like, ‘yo, I’m bringing Wild N’ Out, and I want you to be a part of it. I’ve always wanted to be on Wild N’ Out as well.”

After an audition, which Con believes was lackluster, he received a call a few weeks later confirming his casting to the hit MTV show.

While Conceited’s Wild N’ Out popularity became a catalyst for new ventures, Reginald Sergile’s humble beginnings began in Brooklyn.

He split his youth between New York City and Florida. While in the South, he noticed the amount of Tri-State natives that migrated to Florida. Although true, the style of living was a complete culture shock.

“Here in New York City, people move at a much faster pace and you have that New York attitude. You rep your borough to the fullest,” he says. “If you go anywhere else, you already have a confidence boost being from here. It’s like a fashion show here in New York too.”

Conceited claims Brooklyn as NYC’s most fashionable borough, although Harlem natives would contest that sentiment.

He became confident in his lyrical ability at the age of 19 after a few years of making his name for himself in battle rap. Once his notoriety grew on the east coast, he took his talents to Da Jungle in Stockton, CA. Later, his battle was featured on WorldStarHipHop, after they initially denied him, and the rest was history.

Conceited quickly became one of the most viewed battle rappers on the internet. His witty bars, dominant punchlines, and his signature “slow it down, I just dissed you” catchphrase attributed to his viewership.

Since his first appearance on Wild N’ Out, Conceited flawlessly shined, especially during the “wildstyle” battles.

After years of campaigning for the revival of Yo! MTV Raps, Conceited manifestation would come into fruition when he was contacted to become the show’s new co-host.

“As far as the process, I did not have to audition,” he says. “I get on a Zoom call about the show, and they tell me that they are auditioning DJs for a chemistry test for a co-host.

No one else stood a chance once the chem test was done with DJ Diamond Kuts. Conceited notes that Diamond Kuts was a no-brainer given her extensive experience. The duo’s chemistry was the bonus.

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Conceited’s journey from Da Jungle Battle Raps to hosting Yo! MTV Raps exemplifies his diverse talent as a personality.

Be sure to check out Yo! MTV Raps every Tuesday from May 24 through July 12 exclusively on Paramount+. Featured guests include Freddie Gibbs, Latto, Saba, J.I.D, Shenseea, Tee Grizzley, IDK, and Trina.

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‘Yo! MTV Raps’ Is Officially Back With A Trailer And A Premiere Date

May 2, 2022 by newhiphopnews

Once upon a time, back before we all had supercomputers in our pockets but after video killed the radio star, the place to go to learn more about the then-nascent music and culture of hip-hop was Yo! MTV Raps (at least for those of us outside the New York tri-state area). Airing in the US from 1988 to 1995, the two-hour video block was the first of its kind on the network, airing rap videos, interviews with rappers, and in-studio performances. It was the first time many folks outside of urban America got to see the exciting new art form as it gained in popularity and power.

With the exception of a few anniversary shows, the block has been off the air for over 25 years. However, that’s soon to change thanks to the new streaming service Paramount+, which is relaunching the show with battle rapper/MTV fixture Conceited as the host alongside DJ Diamond Kuts. Like its predecessor, the show revival is set to feature interviews, performances, and, perhaps inspired by the original show’s legendary final episode, live ciphers from some of hip-hop’s hottest rising stars.

The show will premiere on May 24 with Freddie Gibbs and will air weekly, with future takeovers from Latto, Saba, JID, Shenseea, Tee Grizzley, IDK, and Trina. According to Complex, more stars including Baby Tate, Just Blaze, and Maino will appear throughout the season. In addition, Paramount+ will feature archived episodes from the show’s original run alongside past episodes of VH1’s Behind The Music and another pivotal MTV staple, Unplugged.

Check out the trailer for the return of Yo! MTV Raps above.

‘YO! MTV RAPS’ to Return with New Hosts Conceited and DJ Diamond Kuts

February 18, 2022 by newhiphopnews

The revival of the trailblazing hip-hop series YO! MTV RAPS will be hosted by legendary battle rapper Conceited and celebrated deejay DJ Diamond Kuts, according to Paramount+. The new worldwide edition, from MTV Entertainment Studios, will feature hosted segments, live performances, cyphers, lifestyle content, and a complete deep dive into the present condition of hip-hop. The series will premiere on Paramount+ in the United States and other international territories where the streaming service is available, as previously stated.

YO! MTV RAPS became the go-to show for all things hip-hop after its launch on August 6, 1988, 33 years ago. The start of the series coincided with the birth of hip-hop, and it was critical to the genre’s global appeal, igniting a worldwide passion for the genre and hip-hop culture, which has since become the most dominant force in mainstream music and pop culture.

“‘YO! MTV RAPS’ is truly one of the most groundbreaking, iconic music series to date. The wildly popular franchise introduced hip-hop to the world and along the way helped launch the careers of countless artists,” said Bruce Gillmer, Chief Content Officer, Music, Paramount+ and President of Music, Music Talent, Programming & Events, Paramount. “Conceited and DJ Diamond Kuts are the perfect pair to bring new life and energy to our storied past, as we merge the show’s legacy with the fresh faces of hip- hop’s present and future, taking YO! worldwide to a whole new generation of fans on Paramount+.”

Conceited is a multi-faceted artist most recognized for his work as a SMACK/URL battle rapper and as a recurrent cast member of the smash franchise “Wild ‘N Out.” He rose to prominence in the critically praised “Motherland of Urban Renaissance” in Harlem, New York, where he was born. His first major-league battle took place in the Lion’s Den in the fall of 2009, among battle rap veterans like Murda Mook and Loaded Lux’s. His new-school style of uncontested delivery, continuous bars, and lyrical talent has earned him praise. Conceited began broadcasting the MTV internet series Sneaker Wars on the “Wild ‘N Out” YouTube channel in February 2020.

Executive Producers for the series include Kurt Williamson, Warren Oliver, and Michelle Kenner of HollandWest Productions. Kim Velona is Head of Production. Bruce Gillmer and Jennifer Demme serve as Executive Producers for MTV.

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