Kurtis Blow Quotes

Powerful Kurtis Blow for Daily Growth

About Kurtis Blow

Kurtis Blow (born Kurtis Walker on August 9, 1959), a pioneering figure in hip-hop music, is often recognized as the first commercially successful rapper. Known for his socially conscious lyrics and smooth delivery, he has made significant contributions to the genre. Born and raised in The Bronx, New York, Blow was exposed to hip-hop culture at a young age. He honed his rapping skills in local block parties, eventually gaining notice from Sylvia Robinson of Sugar Hill Records. In 1978, he signed with the label and released "Christmas Rappin'"—the first commercial hip-hop single—which became a holiday classic. His debut album, "Kurtis Blow," released in 1980, was a critical success and included hits like "The Breaks" and "If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)." These tracks, with their infectious beats and thought-provoking lyrics, showcased Blow's ability to tackle social issues while maintaining commercial appeal. Throughout his career, Kurtis Blow has been influential in bridging the gap between hip-hop and mainstream music. His songs often addressed racial inequality, poverty, and other social justice issues, making him a voice for the voiceless within the community. In 1985, he switched to MCA Records and released "America," a poignant protest song addressing racism in America. He continued to release music throughout the '80s and '90s, though his commercial success waned as the hip-hop landscape evolved. Today, Kurtis Blow is recognized as one of the founding fathers of rap music. His impact on the genre can still be felt today, with modern rappers citing him as an inspiration. In 2007, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in recognition of his groundbreaking work. Despite not having a Billboard number-one single, Kurtis Blow remains a significant figure in hip-hop history.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything."

This quote by Kurtis Blow emphasizes the importance of having a strong personal conviction or belief system. It suggests that if one lacks a clear sense of values or principles, they run the risk of being swayed or influenced easily by anything that comes their way. Standing for something means having a firm stance on what is right and wrong, and staying true to those beliefs even when faced with challenges or temptations to deviate from them. Essentially, the quote highlights the significance of having a strong character and moral compass in navigating life's journey.


"The music business is a struggle at first, then it's a grind, then it's a bearable occupation, and then it's a matter of survival."

This quote by Kurtis Blow encapsulates the journey of an artist in the music industry. The "struggle at first" implies the initial challenges faced when trying to break into the competitive world of music, such as finding opportunities, honing one's craft, and building a fan base. The "grind" suggests the persistence and hard work required to sustain a career in the industry, which can often involve long hours, low pay, and constant promotion. As an artist becomes more established, it may become a "bearable occupation," indicating that the challenges have been overcome, and the artist finds a level of comfort and stability within their career. Finally, "a matter of survival" signifies the importance of staying relevant in the ever-evolving music landscape to continue thriving and earning a living. Essentially, Kurtis Blow is highlighting that success in the music industry requires perseverance, adaptability, and resilience.


"Rap is the voice of the unheard, a tool to speak out against injustice."

This quote by Kurtis Blow emphasizes that Rap music serves as an expressive outlet for marginalized voices and communities who often lack representation or opportunity to be heard within mainstream society. As a medium, rap allows individuals to voice their concerns, experiences, and perspectives on social issues such as injustice, discrimination, and inequality, providing a platform for dialogue and change. In essence, rap music functions not just as entertainment, but also as a powerful tool for social activism and advocacy.


"The only thing that separates women from men is anatomy, but when it comes to talent, intelligence, drive and determination, there's no difference."

This quote by Kurtis Blow emphasizes the fundamental equality between men and women in terms of abilities such as talent, intelligence, drive, and determination. He suggests that biological differences should not be used to justify disparities in opportunities or achievements, and instead, focus should be placed on recognizing and valuing individual capabilities regardless of gender. The message encourages a society where everyone is given an equal chance to succeed based on merit and personal qualities rather than preconceived notions or stereotypes.


"Hip-hop has always been about expressing what's going on in the streets, reflecting the culture and giving a voice to the voiceless."

This quote by Kurtis Blow suggests that hip-hop is a genre of music rooted in societal reflection, particularly focusing on urban culture and experiences. It offers an outlet for voices often unheard, providing a platform to express the struggles, triumphs, and realities of communities living at the intersection of popular culture and social issues. Essentially, hip-hop is a powerful tool for storytelling, advocacy, and giving voice to those typically marginalized in mainstream discourse.


When I was 13 I had a fake Id that said that I was 19. I was getting in all the clubs.

- Kurtis Blow

Getting, Had, Clubs, Fake

That's the job of the entertainer, to entertain, not to motivate or inspire people to get violent!

- Kurtis Blow

Inspire, Violent, Entertain, Motivate

I was called Kool Dj Kurt Walker... but they wanted tocall me Kurtis Blow.

- Kurtis Blow

DJ, Wanted, Kool, Blow

My first jam was at Hotel Diplomat opening for Hollywood.

- Kurtis Blow

Hotel, Hollywood, Jam, Diplomat

I was signed when I was 19 years old, in 1980. I went to Germany and France. Seeing the world at that time was just an awesome experience for a teenager.

- Kurtis Blow

Old, Germany, Signed, Teenager

The Bronx is famous for two things. Hip-hop, and 26 world championships.

- Kurtis Blow

World, Famous, Bronx, Hip-Hop

I started DJing, breakdancing and MCing in the '70s and I got my record deal in 1979 with 'Christmas Rap.'

- Kurtis Blow

Deal, Started, Rap, Record Deal

Hip Hop is thee dominant youth culture in the world right now.

- Kurtis Blow

World, Thee, Hip Hop, Youth Culture

I used to date Latoya for awhile, I was a close freind of the family.

- Kurtis Blow

Family, Date, Used, Awhile

Yeah when I was 7 or 8 my moms would have little parties, and I would play the music.

- Kurtis Blow

Music, Play, Would, Moms

The music business is really a spiritual business whether we know it or not.

- Kurtis Blow

Business, Music, Whether, Music Business

Pete Dj Jones was the first person that I saw with 2 turntables. This was 1972.

- Kurtis Blow

Person, First, Saw, DJ

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