Today we remember Nikki Giovanni on what would have been her 83rd birthday.
Known as “the people’s poet,” she helped shape the Black Arts Movement and inspired generations through her powerful voice, truth, and imagination.
Rest in power, Nikki Giovanni.🕊️
34 years ago today, Gang Starr release their 3rd LP, Daily Operation, on Chrysalis Records. lyrically, musically, and visually, Daily Operation is one of the more culturally rich hip-hop records ever. Preem’s production is a tribute to multiple decades of black music, and Guru is in top form. “Take it Personal” stands alone as possibly one of the five songs that define the signature sound of the group with an impeccable catalog, 34 years later it still stands as one of the best examples of top-tier lyricism over flawless production. like the rest of their work, Daily Operation raised the bar artistically upon its release in the spring of 1992, inspiring heightened cultural awareness and somehow making it all look easy, like just another day in the office for hip-hop’s greatest MC/DJ combo. an absolute perfect record and my personal favorite from their (brilliant) discography. listen to it today, and bask in its glory.
Rest in peace, James Gadson…
One of the most in-demand session drummers in soul, funk, and R&B, he recorded with an incredible range of artists across decades.
His groove helped shape the sound of legends like Bill Withers, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, The Jackson 5, The Temptations, Paul McCartney, Quincy Jones, Herbie Hancock, Aretha Franklin, B.B. King, Ray Charles, Smokey Robinson, and so many more.
Remembering the legendary drummer, James Gadson.
"Some drummers are soulful. Some drummers are funky. Some drummers are rockin'. Some drummers are swinging, but NO drummer has impacted the art of breakbeat drumming like James Gadson," said @questlove.
Gadson was 86.