Ten of the Best-Selling Albums from the Early days of Hip Hop

1. The Sugarhill Gang (1980)

“The Sugarhill Gang” album, released in 1980, stands as a cornerstone in the history of hip-hop music. Produced by Sugar Hill Records, this pioneering work by the Sugarhill Gang helped propel rap music into the mainstream spotlight. With its infectious beats and clever rhymes, the album laid the groundwork for the genre’s expansion and influence in the years to come.

A seminal album that revolutionized hip-hop in 1980. Featuring the groundbreaking single “Rapper’s Delight,” the album became a cultural phenomenon, blending funk-infused beats with innovative rhymes. Tracks like “Apache” and “8th Wonder” showcase the group’s lyrical prowess and infectious energy, capturing the essence of early rap music. As the first hip-hop album to enter the mainstream charts, “The Sugarhill Gang” cemented its place in music history. Its success paved the way for future rap artists and albums to break into the mainstream, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of hip-hop culture. With its timeless appeal and influential sound, “The Sugarhill Gang” remains a classic in the annals of hip-hop history.

Click here to Purchase The Sugarhill Gang

2. Kurtis Blow (1980)

“Kurtis Blow,” the eponymous debut album by Kurtis Blow, marked a significant moment in the evolution of hip-hop music. Released in 1980, the album introduced Kurtis Blow as a prominent figure in the emerging rap scene and laid the groundwork for his enduring influence in the genre.

A groundbreaking album that played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of hip-hop. Featuring tracks like “The Breaks” and “Christmas Rappin’,” the album showcases Kurtis Blow’s charismatic delivery, innovative rhymes, and infectious beats. As one of the earliest hip-hop albums to gain mainstream recognition, “Kurtis Blow” helped popularize rap music and set the stage for future artists to follow. With its timeless appeal and cultural significance, the album remains a classic in the annals of hip-hop history, solidifying Kurtis Blow’s legacy as a pioneer and trailblazer in the genre.

3. The Breaks (1980)

Kurtis Blow’s “The Breaks” album, released in 1980, stands as a significant milestone in the early days of hip-hop and rap music. As one of the genre’s pioneering artists, Kurtis Blow brought his unique style and energy to the forefront, solidifying his place in music history with this iconic release.

A seminal album that helped shape the landscape of hip-hop music. With its infectious beats, innovative rhymes, and charismatic delivery, Kurtis Blow’s debut album became an instant classic. Tracks like the title song “The Breaks” and “Christmas Rappin'” showcase Blow’s lyrical prowess and dynamic flow, captivating audiences worldwide. As one of the earliest hip-hop albums to gain mainstream recognition, “The Breaks” played a pivotal role in popularizing the genre. Its timeless appeal and cultural significance continue to resonate with fans of hip-hop music, solidifying Kurtis Blow’s legacy as a trailblazer in the world of rap.

4. The Message (1982)

“The Message” by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, released in 1982, stands as a seminal album in the history of hip-hop. With its socially conscious lyrics, innovative production, and groundbreaking storytelling, the album cemented its place as a cornerstone of the genre and solidified the group’s status as pioneers in rap music.

A landmark album that revolutionized hip-hop culture in 1982. Featuring the iconic title track “The Message,” the album addressed social issues and urban realities with raw honesty and authenticity. Tracks like “White Lines” and “Scorpio” showcased the group’s lyrical prowess and innovative use of sampling and scratching techniques. “The Message” became a critical and commercial success, garnering widespread acclaim for its groundbreaking sound and impactful storytelling. Its influence on hip-hop and popular culture remains profound, inspiring generations of artists and setting new standards for authenticity and creativity in rap music.

Click here to purchase The Message

5. Run-D.M.C (1984)

“Run-D.M.C.” marked a pivotal moment in the history of hip-hop, as it showcased a raw and authentic sound that would redefine the genre. Released in 1984, this eponymous album by Run-D.M.C. laid the groundwork for modern rap music, setting a new standard for authenticity, style, and lyrical prowess.

A seminal album that revolutionized hip-hop culture. Featuring tracks like “It’s Like That” and “Sucker M.C.’s (Krush-Groove 1),” the album introduced a stripped-down sound characterized by hard-hitting beats and socially conscious lyrics. Run-D.M.C.’s pioneering approach to rap music resonated with audiences worldwide, propelling the album to commercial success and critical acclaim. With its minimalistic production and innovative storytelling, “Run-D.M.C.” became a blueprint for future hip-hop artists, shaping the direction of the genre for decades to come. Its impact on music and popular culture is undeniable, solidifying Run-D.M.C.’s legacy as trailblazers in the world of hip-hop.

6. King of Rock (1985)

“King of Rock” by Run-D.M.C., released in 1985, stands as a seminal work in the history of hip-hop music. With its bold lyrics, raw energy, and innovative sound, the album solidified Run-D.M.C.’s status as a pioneers of the genre and helped usher in a new era of rap music.

A landmark album that epitomizes the golden age of hip-hop. Released in 1985, the album features iconic tracks like “King of Rock,” “Can You Rock It Like This,” and “You Talk Too Much.” Fusing rock-infused beats with powerful rhymes, Run-D.M.C. revolutionized the hip-hop landscape and catapulted the genre into the mainstream. “King of Rock” showcases the group’s lyrical dexterity, innovative production, and unapologetic attitude, cementing their place as cultural icons. With its timeless appeal and groundbreaking sound, “King of Rock” remains a cornerstone of hip-hop history and continues to inspire generations of artists and fans alike.

Click here to Purchase King of Rock

7. Radio (1985)

LL Cool J’s debut album, “Radio,” released in 1985, marked the emergence of a rap legend and set new standards for the genre. With his distinctive flow, charismatic presence, and groundbreaking style, LL Cool J revolutionized hip-hop and solidified his place in music history.

An album that helped define the landscape of hip-hop in 1985. Featuring hit tracks like “I Can’t Live Without My Radio” and “Rock the Bells,” the album showcases LL Cool J’s lyrical prowess, smooth delivery, and magnetic stage presence. With its infectious beats and innovative production, “Radio” captured the attention of audiences worldwide and propelled LL Cool J to stardom. The album’s blend of streetwise lyrics, catchy hooks, and dynamic performances laid the foundation for future rap artists and solidified LL Cool J’s status as a hip-hop icon. “Radio” remains a classic in the genre, continuing to inspire and influence generations of hip-hop enthusiasts.

Click here to Purchase Radio

8. Planet Rock (1986)

“Afrika Bambaataa and the Soulsonic Force’s “Planet Rock: The Album,” released in 1986, stands as a groundbreaking work that redefined the landscape of hip-hop and electronic music. Led by Afrika Bambaataa, this album propelled the electro and rap genres into new realms of creativity and innovation.

The album fuses hip-hop, electro, and dance music. Featuring iconic tracks like “Planet Rock” and “Looking for the Perfect Beat,” the album revolutionized the music scene with its innovative use of electronic sounds and futuristic beats. Afrika Bambaataa’s visionary production, combined with the Soulsonic Force’s dynamic performances, created a sonic landscape that transcended genre boundaries. “Planet Rock: The Album” remains a cornerstone of hip-hop and electronic music, inspiring generations of artists and shaping the evolution of dance culture. Its enduring legacy cements Afrika Bambaataa’s influence as a pioneer in the world of urban music.

Click here to Purchase Planet Rock

9. Licensed to Ill (1986)

“Licensed to Ill,” the debut album by Beastie Boys, unleashed a seismic shift in the landscape of hip-hop upon its release in 1986. Infusing irreverent humor, infectious beats, and punk-rock sensibilities, the album marked a watershed moment in music history and solidified the Beastie Boys’ status as cultural icons.

A groundbreaking fusion of rap, rock, and punk that revolutionized the hip-hop genre. Featuring iconic tracks like “Fight for Your Right,” “Brass Monkey,” and “No Sleep Till Brooklyn,” the album propelled the Beastie Boys to international fame. With its rebellious spirit and infectious energy, “Licensed to Ill” captured the hearts of fans worldwide and became the first rap album to top the Billboard 200 chart. Its innovative blend of genres and irreverent lyrics paved the way for future hip-hop artists and solidified the Beastie Boys’ legacy as pioneers of the genre. “Licensed to Ill” remains a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire generations of music lovers.

Click here to Purchased Licensed to Ill

10. Raising Hell (1986)

“Raising Hell” by Run-D.M.C., released in 1986, represents a pinnacle in the evolution of hip-hop music. This groundbreaking album pushed the boundaries of the genre, solidifying Run-D.M.C.’s position as trailblazers and influencing countless artists in the years to come.

An iconic album that revolutionized hip-hop in 1986. Boasting hit singles like “Walk This Way” featuring Aerosmith and “It’s Tricky,” the album seamlessly blends rap with rock elements, catapulting Run-D.M.C. to international fame. Known for its innovative production and bold lyricism, “Raising Hell” became the first rap album to achieve mainstream success, reaching the top of the charts and earning critical acclaim. Its impact on the music industry is undeniable, as it introduced hip-hop to a wider audience and paved the way for future crossover collaborations. With its infectious energy and timeless appeal, “Raising Hell” remains a cornerstone of hip-hop culture, inspiring generations of artists and fans alike.

Click here to Purchase Raising Hell