Afrika Bambaataa founded the Zulu Nation, which transformed the New York street gangs of the late '70s into the productive hip-hop ensembles of the '80s.
He was born Kevin Donovan on April 10, 1960, in New
York. He took the name Afrika Bambaataa from a 19th-century Zulu chief; it means "Chief Affection." The Zulu Nation tribe was inspired by the Michael Caine film "Zulu."
From the late '70s to the mid-'80s, Bambaataa was a member of the Black Spades gang. He also was an MC and a DJ who organized breakdances. His knowledge of funk earned him the nickname "Master of Records."
Bambaataa formed the rap crews the Jazzy 5 and Soul Sonic Force, who
specialized in hip-hop party anthems. In 1980, Jazzy 5 cut its debut, "Jazzy Sensation," and Soul Sonic Force recorded "Zulu Nation Throwdown."
Two years later, Bambaataa had a high-tech hit with "Planet Rock" (RealAudio excerpt), which influenced a bevy of electro-boogie rap tracks. Other innovative singles, all chart failures, included "Renegades of Funk."
Last year, Afrika Bambaataa Vs Danmass issued Electro Funk Express.
Other birthdays Monday: Bobbie Smith (Spinners), 64; Babyface, 42; Kenny Lattimore, 30; Eddie Hazel (Parliament), 1950–1992; and Nate Nelson (Flamingos, Platters), 1932–1984.
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