Grandmaster Flash on “Birth of a Culture”
Summary
David Remnick interviews Grandmaster Flash about his new memoir, Birth of a Culture, exploring the origins of hip-hop in the Bronx. Flash details his innovative DJ techniques, such as using crayons and felt to extend drum breaks, and recounts his journey from local block parties to headlining the Audubon Ballroom. He also reflects on the early dynamics between DJs and MCs, the impact of his group The Furious Five, and the music industry’s shift away from their collaborative formula.
Topics discussed
Sponsorship and show introduction
Introduction to Grandmaster Flash and his memoir
Childhood fascination with electronics and records
The influence of disco and the desire for longer breaks
Inventing the technique of extending drum breaks
The math behind seamless looping and mixing
Adding vocals to engage the crowd
Early DJ scene in the Bronx and neighborhood parties
The Audubon Ballroom performance and record-breaking crowd
Record shopping and the code of respect among DJs
Sponsorship segments
Audio clip and the precision of 3-turntable mixing
The role of the MC and DJ prestige
Playing at Studio 54 and inventing the felt slipmat
The legacy of 'The Message' and group dynamics
Current touring and closing remarks
Credits and New Yorker subscription promotion
Listen ad-free on Castria