Common questions about Rapper's Delight

Short answers, pulled from the story.

Who performed Rapper's Delight?

The Sugarhill Gang performed Rapper's Delight. The trio consisted of Henry Big Bank Hank Jackson, Michael Wonder Mike Wright, and Guy Master Gee O'Brien.

When was Rapper's Delight released?

Rapper's Delight was released in 1979. The song was recorded in a single take at a studio in Englewood, New Jersey, during that year.

What bass line does Rapper's Delight use?

Rapper's Delight uses the iconic bass line from Chic's Good Times. Chip Shearin played the bass line for fifteen minutes straight to create the song's foundation.

Who wrote the lyrics for Rapper's Delight?

Curtis Grandmaster Caz Brown wrote the lyrics for Rapper's Delight. Big Bank Hank borrowed rhymes from Brown's personal book to construct the opening stanzas of the song.

Where was Rapper's Delight recorded?

Rapper's Delight was recorded at a studio in Englewood, New Jersey. The backing band featured musicians from the group Positive Force who played live instruments.

Why did Rapper's Delight become successful?

Rapper's Delight became successful because it was the first commercial rap song to reach the top forty in the United States and number one in Canada. The song introduced hip-hop to a global audience that had never encountered the genre.