The 1970s marked the birth of hip hop, a genre that would revolutionize music and culture. While pinpointing the exact “top” hip hop songs of the 1970s can be debated, this article delves into the era’s key tracks and influential artists who laid the foundation for hip hop’s future. We’ll explore the vibrant scene in the Bronx, New York, where block parties and park jams became breeding grounds for this innovative sound.
The Dawn of Hip Hop: Key Players and Early Influences
The 1970s were a time of experimentation and evolution in music. DJs like Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash, and Afrika Bambaataa began isolating the “breakbeats” in funk and soul records, extending these instrumental sections for dancers to showcase their moves, known as b-boying or breakdancing. This innovative DJing technique became a cornerstone of early hip hop, creating a rhythmic foundation that MCs could rhyme over. 
Early Hip Hop DJing
The Birth of the MC: From Shout-Outs to Rhymes
Initially, MCs (Masters of Ceremonies) primarily hyped up the crowd, introducing songs and giving shout-outs. However, inspired by the energy of the dancers and the rhythmic breaks, MCs like Coke La Rock and Melle Mel began developing more complex rhymes, incorporating storytelling, social commentary, and wordplay. This evolution marked a significant shift, transforming the role of the MC from a hype man to a lyrical artist.
What were the most important elements of 1970s Top Hip Hop Songs? The answer lies in the fusion of DJing and MCing, creating a dynamic and interactive musical experience. 1970’s top billboard songs often featured prominent breakbeats, which were essential to early hip hop.
The Block Party Scene: Where It All Began
Block parties became the heart of the early hip hop movement. These community gatherings provided a space for DJs, MCs, and b-boys to showcase their skills and connect with their audience. 
1970s Block Party Scene The raw energy and improvisational nature of these parties fostered creativity and pushed the boundaries of the genre. These gatherings weren’t just about music; they were about community, self-expression, and cultural identity. They provided a vital platform for marginalized communities to voice their experiences and celebrate their heritage.
From the Streets to the Studios: Early Hip Hop Recordings
While the 1970s saw the development of hip hop’s core elements, commercially released recordings were still limited. However, songs like “King Tim III (Personality Jock)” by Fatback Band, often cited as a proto-hip-hop track, hinted at the genre’s potential. This blurring of lines between genres demonstrates the fluidity and experimentation characteristic of the era. top rap songs 1980s built upon the foundations laid in the 1970s, leading to the explosion of hip hop in the following decade.
“The 1970s were a time of incredible innovation in music. Hip hop emerged from the streets, fueled by the creative energy of DJs, MCs, and dancers. These pioneers were true visionaries, laying the groundwork for a genre that would change the world.” – Dr. Emily Carter, Musicologist and Hip Hop Historian
The Legacy of 1970s Hip Hop
Although commercial success would come later, the 1970s remain a crucial period in hip hop history. The innovations of this era – from DJing techniques to MCing styles – laid the foundation for the genre’s global impact. 
Hip Hop Evolution The 1970s were a period of gestation, a time of experimentation and development that would give birth to one of the most influential musical and cultural movements of the 20th century. You can find more information about other iconic musical periods on sites like about.com top rap songs.
The foundational elements established during this era, including DJing, MCing, b-boying, and graffiti art, became cornerstones of hip hop culture. For those interested in exploring the origins of other genres, resources like best of top hindi songs and blondie top songs offer valuable insights.
Conclusion: The Roots of a Revolution
The 1970s top hip hop songs, while not always chart-toppers in the traditional sense, represent a pivotal moment in music history. These early tracks and the artists who created them laid the foundation for a cultural phenomenon that would transform music and society forever. Understanding the 1970s hip hop scene is crucial to appreciating the evolution and global impact of this dynamic and ever-evolving genre.
FAQ
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Who is considered the “father” of hip hop? While many contributed, DJ Kool Herc is often credited with pioneering techniques that became essential to hip hop.
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What is a breakbeat? A breakbeat is an instrumental section of a song, often with a strong drum or percussive element, that DJs isolate and loop to extend the rhythmic section.
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Where did hip hop originate? Hip hop originated in the Bronx borough of New York City.
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What were the main elements of early hip hop? Early hip hop combined DJing, MCing, b-boying (breakdancing), and graffiti art.
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What is the significance of block parties in hip hop history? Block parties were essential to the early development of hip hop, providing a space for artists to perform and connect with their community.
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When did hip hop start becoming commercially successful? While the roots are in the 1970s, hip hop’s commercial breakthrough came in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
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How did 1970s hip hop influence later generations of artists? The innovations of 1970s hip hop laid the groundwork for all subsequent developments in the genre, influencing countless artists and shaping the sound of modern music.
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