Afrika Bambaataa & The Soulsonic Force stand as pivotal figures in the evolution of hip hop and are widely revered for their groundbreaking contributions to the genre. Formed in the South Bronx during the early 1980s, they are led by Afrika Bambaataa, a DJ and community leader recognized for his genre-bending music and for promoting the four pillars of hip hop culture: DJing, MCing, breakdancing, and graffiti art. The collective's unique approach to music fused funk, electronic, and world rhythms, which played an instrumental role in shaping the sound and ethos of early hip hop.

Their most celebrated hit, "Planet Rock," originally released in 1982, is one of hip hop's seminal tracks, incorporating elements of Kraftwerk's "Trans-Europe Express" and defining the electro-funk sound. The song's influence extended well beyond hip hop, affecting various genres including dance music and pop, and has been sampled by countless artists over the years. Afrika Bambaataa & The Soulsonic Force's later releases like "Planet Rock Remixes Vol. 1" and "Planet Rock Remixes Vol. 2" (both 1996 versions), signified their enduring legacy and the timeless appeal of their groundbreaking work in reshaping music. Despite facing controversy and allegations concerning Bambaataa later in his life, the collective's musical output remains a foundational cornerstone of hip hop history.

Genres

Bronx Hip Hop

Electro

Old School Hip Hop

Latest Release

Planet Rock (1996 Version)

Afrika Bambaataa & The Soulsonic Force

Ep - 5 Tracks - Released May 4, 2012