In the US, hip hop reigns as the genre that influences every aspect of our culture. From fashion to film, the dominance of this prolific sound can be traced back to one year - 1988. From Public Enemy to The Fresh Prince, these twelve months gave rise to the superstars and styles that still resonate in songs released today. Through the unique perspective and personal experiences of Will Smith, Class of ’88 reveals the milestone moments, albums and artists that inspired a sonic evolution and secured 1988 as hip hop’s most important year. Rich with archival material, new interviews with hip hop’s biggest stars, and personal recollections from Will himself, Class of ’88 delivers fresh untold stories from the year that hip hop overcame the forces that were hell bent on blocking its rise. This series features interviews and stories from the revolutionary Artists that impacted that year and many more afterwards, including: Queen Latifah, Jazzy Jeff, DMC, Salt-N-Pepa, Chuck D, Fab Five Freddy, Rakim, Slick Rick, DJ Red Alert, and Rick Rubin. Listen to Class of '88 wherever you get your podcasts. You can binge the entire series, right now, on the Amazon Music App or Audible.
The Class of '88 with Will Smith podcast is a riveting and engaging journey through the early years of hip hop. As a fan of the genre, I was completely captivated by the storytelling and nostalgic feel of each episode. It made me wish I had been there during that time to witness the doors being opened by so many influential artists.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is the way in which it paints vivid pictures with words. Without visuals, it can be challenging to convey the essence of a story, but The Class of '88 does it effortlessly. The host, Will Smith, uses articulate details, tones, and inflections to transport listeners back in time and make them feel like they are right there experiencing the birth of hip hop firsthand. This attention to detail creates a thirst for more and keeps listeners hooked episode after episode.
Another great aspect of this podcast is its ability to showcase the humble beginnings and authentic nature of hip hop. Will Smith, as both a fan and an industry insider, brings a unique perspective that pays homage to the roots of the genre. From giving credit to DJ Kool Herc for kickstarting hip hop with his Jamaican "ride di mic" style to reliving iconic moments like Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince's hit songs, The Class of '88 celebrates the foundations on which hip hop was built.
While it's difficult to find any flaws in this exceptional podcast, if there was one criticism, it would be that visual elements are missing. Hip hop is known for its vibrant culture and visuals play a significant role in conveying its impact. Although The Class of '88 compensates with excellent storytelling techniques, some listeners may still crave visuals that enhance their understanding and connection with the subject matter.
In conclusion, The Class of '88 with Will Smith is a brilliant podcast that beautifully relives the early years of hip hop. It successfully transports listeners back in time through its captivating storytelling and attention to detail. Will Smith's humble and authentic approach, along with the inclusion of iconic artists, makes this podcast a must-listen for any fan of hip hop or anyone interested in learning about its influential beginnings. Overall, it's a phenomenal series that deserves all the praise it receives.
Class of '88 has moved. You can binge all 8 episodes exclusively and ad-free right now by joining Audible or Wondery+ in the Wondery App. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
By late 1988, hip hop was more popular than ever. But a tragedy at a concert fueled a different narrative: that rap music was dangerous. Enter Slick Rick, an artist well-aware of the power of storytelling. Featured voices: Slick Rick, MC Lyte, and DJ Red Alert. Listen to Class of 88 wherever you get your podcasts, or you can binge the entire series ad-free on the Amazon Music, Audible, or Wondery App.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
NWA's landmark album Straight Outta Compton might never have happened without the help of of three teenage girls from Rialto. This is the story of JJ Fad. Featured voices: JJ Fad and Arabian Prince.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In 1988, Salt-N-Pepa found that they had “crossed over” with their hit song Push It. But success came with its own set of problems, especially for female rappers. Featured voices: Salt-N-Pepa and Roxanne Shante.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
For years, rap music was mostly absent from MTV. But the debut of Yo! MTV Raps changed everything. For better, and for worse. Featured voices: Fab 5 Freddy and Darryl “DMC” McDaniels. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In the summer of 1988, Public Enemy dropped an album that would take them to the top of the charts, to front page news, and even to a stage in New York's most notorious jail – Rikers Island. Featured voices: Public Enemy and Chuck D.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Hip hop started as a DJ-led medium. But with the rise of rappers like Rakim and Queen Latifah, MC's were moving to center stage. Featured voices: Queen Latifah, Rakim, and DJ Red Alert.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Run-DMC were the kings of hip hop. But in 1988, they faced new competition from a generation of artists they had helped inspire. Featured voices: Run-DMC and Darryl “DMC” McDaniels. Listen to Class of 88 wherever you get your podcasts, or you can binge the entire series ad-free on the Amazon Music, Audible, or Wondery App.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In January of 1988, the music industry was treating hip hop like a fad. But that was all about to change – along with the lives of two kids from Philly. Host Will Smith brings us straight into the most pivotal year in hip hop history. It started at the Battle for World Supremacy, the world's largest DJ competition in NYC. Featured voices: Will Smith and Jazzy Jeff. Follow Class of '88 wherever you get your podcasts. Listen to episode 1 everywhere or you can binge the entire series right now on the Amazon Music app or Audible. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Hip hop reigns as the genre that influences every aspect of our culture. From fashion to film, the origins of this prolific sound can be traced back to one year - 1988. Through the unique perspective and personal experiences of host Will Smith, Class of '88 reveals the milestone moments, albums and artists that inspired a sonic evolution and secured 1988 as hip hop's most important year.Listen to Class of '88 wherever you get your podcasts. You can binge the entire series, right now, on the Amazon Music App or Audible.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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