I just wanted to respond to last weekends sad news of the loss of another Hip Hop pioneer. London's Derek Boland came to prominance during the late 80's as a DJ, rapper, remixer and A&R for his record label Music Of Life.It really is amazing he broke through at all, with the lack legal Hip Hop radio stations in the UK back then, but break through he did, braking many barriers as he went. Derek B was the first UK rapper to go gold in the UK. The first (and only) UK rapper to sign with Russell Simmon's Rush Management company. The first UK rapper to tour with Public Enemy, Run DMC, LL Cool J, Salt 'N Pepa and Fat Boys...and the first rapper (period!) to play on Yo! MTV Raps.
Still one of the most successful UK rappers, although sometimes accused of using corny American twang in his flow; it was matched with a solid mic presence and heavy barraging rhymes.
Pour out a 40 and check out Derek's first two 12"s.
>Get Down 12" (1987<
>Rock The Beat 12" (1987)<
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