Hip Hop Awards 2023: Marley Marl Honored For His Contributions to Hip Hop
This year, “BET Hip Hop Awards” 2023 honored the unsung architects who helped shape the genre into the global movement it is today. Legendary DJ and producer Marley Marl received the “I Am Hip Hop” award from rappers and fellow honorees Swizz Beatz and Timbaland.
The producer graciously dedicated his award to the memory of the late pioneering hip-hop radio DJ, John “Mr. Magic” Rivas, who had given him his start as the DJ of “Rap Attack.” With heartfelt words, he expressed, “One of us made it, brother, and this victory belongs to you.”
In a touching gesture, Swizz took a moment to acknowledge Marl, crediting him for inventing sampling on a hip-hop record. The crowd responded with cheers and applause, honoring Marl’s profound impact on the genre.
“It all started with a little dream in the crib. Queensbridge, I love you. This goes out to you too,” the industry veteran continued. “I accept this award and thank you for giving it to me because I am hip hop DJ Marley Marl.”
Marl’s innovative work dates back to his iconic productions with the Juice Crew in the early 80s. His distinctive sound, marked by intricate beats and soulful samples, not only influenced countless producers but also set a new standard for the art of production within hip-hop music.
In honor of this year’s celebration, get familiar with the hip-hop pioneer with these five interesting facts.
Watch Marley Marl Being Honored:
He founded an iconic record label
Marley Marl co-founded Cold Chillin' Records, a record label that played a pivotal role in the "golden age" of hip-hop. The label released music from influential artists like Big Daddy
Kane, MC Shan, Roxanne Shanté, and Biz Markie.
He’s immortalized on a track from Biggie Smalls
Marl is famously referenced on Notorious BIG’s debut single “Juicy” as a nod to his early influence on the late Brooklyn rapper.
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He pioneered the art of sampling
Before artists like Kanye West sped up classic Motown records, Marl introduced the idea of sampling in hip hop music. He introduced the concept of chopping up drum beats and samples from various records, laying the foundation for the distinctive sound of 1980s and 1990s hip-hop.
He was a DJ on the first-ever rap radio show
Marl initially started out on Mr. Magic’s “Rap Attack” series on WBLS, the first on-air platform for hip hop. He later hosted “In Control with Marley Marl'' which highlighted emerging hip-hop artists.
He’s produced some of the most iconic albums in rap
Marl’s collaboration with Big Daddy Kane on the classic album "Long Live the Kane" elevated both artist and producer to legendary status. He’s also behind LL Cool J’s double platinum album “Mama Said Knock You Out.”
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