Kurtis Blow

Date of Birth: August 9, 1959

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: (none)

Biography

Kurtis Blow, born Kurtis Walker on August 9, 1959, in Harlem, New York City, is a pioneering American rapper and one of the first commercially successful artists in the hip-hop genre. He is most famous for his 1980 single “The Breaks,” which became the first certified gold rap song. Blow was a trailblazer in the early days of hip-hop, paving the way for future rap artists with his innovative style and rhythm. Blow’s career began as a DJ in the early 1970s, and by 1979, he had signed with Mercury Records, becoming the first rapper to be signed by a major label. His debut album, “Kurtis Blow,” included the hit single “Christmas Rappin’,” which sold over 400,000 copies. Over the years, he released several albums that solidified his role as a key figure in hip-hop, including “Deuce” (1981), “Tough” (1982), and “Ego Trip” (1984). In addition to his music career, Kurtis Blow has worked as a producer, actor, and minister. He produced tracks for artists like The Fat Boys and Run-D.M.C., and he appeared in various films and TV shows. Later in life, he became an ordained minister, dedicating himself to social causes and community service.

5 Interesting Facts about Kurtis Blow

1. Kurtis Blow was the first rapper to sign with a major record label, Mercury Records, in 1979.

2. His single “The Breaks” was the first rap song to be certified gold.

3. Kurtis Blow has produced songs for hip-hop legends like Run-D.M.C. and The Fat Boys.

4. He is an ordained minister and has been involved in various social causes.

5. In 2016, Kurtis Blow successfully underwent heart surgery, which he publicly acknowledged as a life-changing experience.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Kurtis Blow

1. “Hip-hop is the voice of this generation. Even if you didn’t grow up in the Bronx in the ’70s, hip-hop is a part of you.”

2. “The breaks in life are what really help you to grow and become the person you are.”

3. “Rap is something you do; hip-hop is something you live.”

4. “We were like the rock stars of our time, and it was an incredible journey.”

5. “Music has always been my passion, but helping people and giving back to the community is my calling.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

The highest net worth achieved by Kurtis Blow is estimated to be around $5 million.

Children

Kurtis Blow has three children: Kurtis Blow Jr., Rikki Walker, and Mark Walker. He has often spoken about the importance of family and has been involved in his children’s lives, supporting their endeavors and encouraging them to pursue their passions.