Title: St. Louis Radio Station Makes History by Playing “Rapper’s Delight” in 1979
Subtitle: Rappers Jim Gates and Edie Anderson unknowingly gave birth to a movement
Date: [Current Date]
By: [Author’s Name]
In 1979, “Gentleman” Jim Gates and Edie “Lady Edie B.” Anderson, two radio personalities from St. Louis radio station WESL, made a monumental decision that would forever change the music industry. With little knowledge of what was to come, Gates interrupted Anderson’s midday show and instructed her to play a 14-minute-long 12-inch vinyl single called “Rapper’s Delight” by the Sugarhill Gang.
Little did they know, this decision would mark the birth of rap music as we know it today. “Rapper’s Delight” became rap music’s first commercial hit, introducing many people to hip-hop, and is now celebrated as the genre’s 50th-anniversary anthem.
Surprisingly, “Rapper’s Delight” had never been played on the radio before. Gates, considered an underdog at the time, attributed his success to his relationship with Sugar Hill Records founders Sylvia and Joe Robinson. He often played their music and had built a rapport with Joe Robinson during visits to the East Coast.
Furthermore, Gates revealed that prominent DJ Frankie Crocker of WBLS in New York City had the opportunity to play the song first but passed. Crocker, reportedly feeling threatened by the younger rappers on the track, didn’t want them to overshadow him. This opened the door for Gates and Anderson to make history.
Despite their initial reservations, both Gates and Anderson took a chance on “Rapper’s Delight.” Gates admitted to being skeptical about the song’s scratching and mixing, fearing it would be too much for listeners. However, his belief in the track led him to play it in his office before giving it to Anderson.
When Gates handed the record to Anderson, she was reluctant to play it, being a jazz enthusiast herself. However, as soon as the song hit the airwaves, the reaction from listeners was immediate and overwhelming. The station’s phone lines lit up, and everyone wanted to know what they were listening to. “Rapper’s Delight” became an instant sensation, solidifying its status as a groundbreaking hit.
Reflecting on that momentous day, Anderson humbly states, “I just happened to be on the air. I just came to work. And on that particular day, I made history.” She recognized the song’s catchy nature and knew it would take over the airwaves.
Since its debut, “Rapper’s Delight” has continued to captivate audiences, transcending generations and becoming a beloved classic. Gates emphasized its lasting impact, even today, when the bassline drops in clubs, and people still excitedly sing along to every word.
As the rest of the world celebrates 50 years of hip-hop in cities like New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and New Orleans, St. Louis can proudly claim its own influential role in the genre’s history. Gates and Anderson may not have known they were making history when they decided to play “Rapper’s Delight” that day, but their actions paved the way for countless artists and changed the music landscape forever.
Today, Gates is venturing into a new radio venture while Anderson continues to showcase her passion for jazz as a host on KDHX. Their actions in 1979 will forever be remembered as the moment rap music exploded onto the scene, forever transforming the music industry.
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This article was written by [Author’s Name] for [Newspaper/Media Outlet].