The New York Public Library has released its 50th anniversary of hip-hop card inspired by what is regarded as the first hip-hop movie “Wild Style”.
In recognition of the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, The New York Public Library (NYPL) will release a limited edition collectible library card that celebrates the genre and New York City’s central role in its rise as a global cultural movement that endures to this day. The cards will be available in branches in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island starting July 14, 2023.
The NYPL card features the iconic “Wild Style” mural from the original soundtrack of the 1983 film by the same name. That film, directed, written, and produced by Charlie Ahearn and set in the South Bronx, is considered the first ever hip-hop film, with appearances by some of the most formative figures of the genre, including Fab 5 Freddy, the Cold Crush Brothers, Lady Pink, and Grandmaster Flash.
The New York Public Library chose the “Wild Style” mural image because the soundtrack’s original cassette is part of NYPL’s extensive hip-hop research collection at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture in Harlem. The distinct “Wild Style” mural created by artists Zephyr, Revolt, and Sharp serves as the art for the front of the library card, while the back of the card depicts the original soundtrack cassette.
Over the years, the Wild Style soundtrack has influenced a range of artists, including Cypress Hill, Nas, Common, Beastie Boys, and many others.
Other items in the Schomburg’s hip-hop collection include Hip-Hop Archive Project files, the James Topp art collection, and the Talib Haqq pictorial history of hip-hop.
- Broadway’s Rising Stars Converge: A Day Of Inspiration At Broadway Express y Más
- Adams, Hochul And More Toast $5 Billion Housing Plan: Building Dreams Together!
- Alicia Graf Mack, Dancer, Educator, And Leader Appointed Artistic Director Of Ailey
- Update: More Illnesses Have Been linked To The McDonald’s E. Coli Outbreak
- Bronx: NYWF’s 30th Annual Dinner Honors Community Leadership And Purpose
Become a Harlem Insider!
By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: . You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact
