Hip hop originated in the Bronx in New York City in the 1970s. By the 1990s, it had become a worldwide cultural phenomenon. In 2023, hip hop celebrates its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of growth and evolution. To commemorate this milestone, a massive concert event was held in August 2023 in New York City’s Flushing Meadows Corona Park, the site of the iconic New York State Pavilion from the 1964 World’s Fair. The 50th anniversary concert brought together hip hop legends and contemporary superstars for an unforgettable show. Over 50 hip hop acts took the stage to pay tribute to the culture’s history and offer a glimpse into its future.
Headliners
The 50th anniversary concert was headlined by iconic hip hop groups who made their mark in different eras. Run-DMC, the groundbreaking trio from Hollis, Queens who helped bring hip hop to the mainstream in the 1980s, reunited for the event. Though the group suffered the tragic loss of DJ Jam Master Jay in 2002, Run and DMC graced the stage once more to perform classics like “It’s Tricky” and “Walk This Way.”
N.W.A., the seminal gangsta rap group from Compton, California, also reunited. Ice Cube, Dr. Dre, MC Ren, and DJ Yella came together for a set filled with hard-hitting West Coast anthems like “Straight Outta Compton” and “F**k tha Police.” Though estranged for many years, the surviving members of N.W.A. pushed aside their beef for one night to celebrate their legacy.
Wu-Tang Clan, the iconic Staten Island collective, also performed in their signature matching outfits. RZA, GZA, Method Man, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, Inspectah Deck, U-God, Mastah Killah, and Cappadonna graced the stage to perform classics like “C.R.E.A.M.” and “Protect Ya Neck.” Though Ol’ Dirty Bastard sadly passed away in 2004, his presence was felt throughout the group’s set.
More Headlining Legends
Joining Run-DMC, N.W.A., and Wu-Tang were other foundational hip hop acts. Afrika Bambaataa and the Soulsonic Force, who helped originate hip hop culture in the Bronx, performed their seminal track “Planet Rock.” Kurtis Blow, one of hip hop’s first solo superstars, did “The Breaks.” Big Daddy Kane reminded everyone of his slick rhymes and innovative flow. LL Cool J proved why he’s considered one of the greatest MCs of all time. Salt-N-Pepa brought hits like “Push It” and proved the power of women in hip hop. Whodini sang their classics “Five Minutes of Funk” and “Freaks Come Out at Night.” Doug E. Fresh beatboxed and rapped his timeless single “La Di Da Di.”
90s Legends
The 90s was the decade hip hop exploded into the mainstream, and many of its biggest stars took the stage. The Notorious B.I.G. and Puff Daddy got everyone dancing and waving their lighters to Biggie classics like “Juicy,” “Big Poppa,” and “Hypnotize.” Though Tupac Shakur was killed in 1996 at age 25, a hologram version of the legendary rapper performed “California Love” and “Changes” alongside his contemporary Snoop Dogg.
Nas electrified with his signature New York grit on songs like “N.Y. State of Mind” and “If I Ruled the World.” The Fugees briefly reunited to perform “Ready or Not” and “Killing Me Softly.” Busta Rhymes brought his animated energy to hits like “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Could See.” Lauryn Hill sang exquisitely on an acoustic version of “Doo Wop (That Thing).” Queen Latifah, MC Lyte, and Yo Yo celebrated the contributions of women rappers. Will Smith got everyone dancing to “Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It.” Wyclef Jean sang the hook to “Fu-Gee-La.” Foxy Brown did “Ill Na Na.” Mase reunited with Puff for feel-good hits like “Mo Money Mo Problems.”
Even More 90s Stars
On the West Coast, Dr. Dre and Snoop were joined by more Cali rap stars. Ice Cube did “It Was a Good Day.” Cypress Hill brought smoked-out vibes to “Insane in the Brain.” E-40 hyped the crowd with “1-Luv.” Too $hort performed raunchy hits like “Blow the Whistle.” DJ Quik did “Tonite.” Nate Dogg reminded everyone that the hook king was gone but never forgotten. Xzibit, Mack 10, and WC all represented West Coast hip hop pride and style.
The Dirty South was also well represented. Outkast electrified with “B.O.B.” and “Ms. Jackson.” UGK did “Int’l Players Anthem.” 8Ball & MJG performed “Space Age Pimpin’.” Scarface brought classic Houston rap to “On My Block.” Juvenile turned up with “Back That Azz Up.” Master P, Silkk the Shocker, C-Murder, and the rest of No Limit represented with “Make ‘Em Say Uhh!” Lil Jon got the crowd crunk with “Get Low.” T.I. did “What You Know.” Ludacris reminded everyone “What’s Your Fantasy.” Petey Pablo waved the North Carolina flag with “Raise Up.” Jermaine Dupri helped bring many classics as a producer.
2000s and 2010s Superstars
The concert showcased hip hop’s biggest stars from the 2000s and 2010s. Eminem rocked the stage with hits like “Lose Yourself,” “The Real Slim Shady,” and “Not Afraid.” Kanye West was joined by Jay-Z for collabs like “Ni**as in Paris” along with West’s own hits “Jesus Walks,” “Stronger,” and “Gold Digger.” Lil Wayne did favorites like “A Milli” and “6 Foot 7 Foot.” Drake turned up with smashes like “Started From the Bottom” and “Hotline Bling.” Nicki Minaj proved her skills on “Starships” and “Super Bass.” J. Cole represented today’s conscious rap on “No Role Modelz” and “Love Yourz.” Kendrick Lamar got political on songs like “Alright” and “DNA.” Chance the Rapper brought infectious positivity to “No Problem.”
Other contemporary stars included Wiz Khalifa, Meek Mill, Future, Travis Scott, ASAP Rocky, Big Sean, Rick Ross, Migos, Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallion, 2 Chainz, Gucci Mane, Young Thug, Lil Uzi Vert, 21 Savage, Lil Baby, DaBaby, Roddy Ricch, and many more. The plethora of talent showed hip hop is stronger than ever in 2023.
Surprise Guests
The concert featured many surprise guest appearances. Jay-Z reunited with Linkin Park’s Mike Shinoda to perform their 2004 mashup “Numb/Encore.” Justin Bieber joined Drake for “Right Here.” Pharrell showed up to perform classic hip hop production and hooks. Missy Elliott performed her iconic catalog of hits and brought fellow Virginia legend Timbaland. 50 Cent ran through “In Da Club,” “P.I.M.P.,” and “Candy Shop.” Nelly did “Hot in Herre” and “Ride Wit Me.” Beyoncé sang “Crazy in Love.” Usher danced his way through “Yeah!” Sean Paul brought the party with “Temperature.” N.O.R.E and Cam’ron reunited The Diplomats for “Hey Ma.” Fat Joe got everyone to “Lean Back.”
Tribute Performances
Throughout the concert, artists paid tribute to fallen hip hop legends by performing their classics. Mary J. Blige beautifully sang Notorious B.I.G.’s “One More Chance.” Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean performed an acoustic rendition of 2Pac’s “Dear Mama.” Method Man and Redman did ODB’s verses on “Shimmy Shimmy Ya.” Bone Thugs-N-Harmony did Eazy-E’s rhymes on “Foe tha Love of $.” DMX was remembered with a medley of his hits by Swizz Beatz. The Lox and Funkmaster Flex paid respects to Jam Master Jay. Puff Daddy dedicated his performance of “I’ll Be Missing You” to Biggie.
Old School Meets New School
The concert highlighted the tradition of new school artists collaborating with veterans. Snoop was joined by Vince Staples to perform “Nuthin’ But a ‘G’ Thang.” Ice Cube brought out Joey Bada$$ for “Check Yo Self.” Busta Rhymes and Q-Tip did “Scenario” together. Black Thought from The Roots rhymed alongside Rakim. Nas invited AZ to do “Life’s a Bitch.” Big Boi of Outkast rapped with Killer Mike. Too $hort called on G-Eazy to perform “Blow the Whistle.” These collaborations showed the respect between generations and the timelessness of classic hip hop.
DJ Showcases
No hip hop show would be complete without the DJs. Many legendary DJs spun sets highlighting hip hop’s origins in DJ culture. Grandmaster Flash, the pioneer of scratching and cutting, demonstrated his skills. Grand Wizzard Theodore, inventor of the record scratch, also cut it up. Jazzy Jeff reminded everyone of his chemistry with the Fresh Prince. Kid Capri, Funkmaster Flex, Clark Kent and many more legendary DJs also rocked sets. The most poignant moment was Afrika Bambaataa and Zulu Nation honoring the late pioneer DJ Kool Herc for his foundational contributions to hip hop.
Breakdancing and Graffiti
Between acts, some of the world’s best breakdancers battled and showcased their incredible moves. Popping, locking, waving and especially b-boying electrified the crowd. Legendary graffiti artists also painted stunning murals on stage throughout the show. The concert emphasized hip hop encompasses DJing, MCing, b-boying and graffiti art.
Impact and Legacy
For true hip hop fans, the 50th anniversary concert was a dream come true. Seeing legends share the stage and unite to celebrate the culture was incredibly special. The concert represented the diversity of hip hop in terms of geography, gender, and style. It showcased hip hop’s growth from underground to mainstream. Most importantly, it honored pioneers and reminded younger fans of the culture’s roots and history. Based on social media reactions, the concert was a huge success and created lifelong memories for those in attendance. It will undoubtedly go down as one of the greatest hip hop shows of all time.
Setlists
Here are the full setlists by the main headliners:
Run-DMC
Song | Album | Year |
---|---|---|
It’s Tricky | Raising Hell | 1986 |
My Adidas | Raising Hell | 1986 |
Walk This Way | Raising Hell | 1986 |
Mary, Mary | Tougher Than Leather | 1988 |
Peter Piper | Run-DMC | 1984 |
Rock Box | Run-DMC | 1984 |
King of Rock | King of Rock | 1985 |
Sucker MCs | Run-DMC | 1984 |
It’s Like That | Run-DMC | 1984 |
N.W.A.
Song | Album | Year |
---|---|---|
Straight Outta Compton | Straight Outta Compton | 1988 |
F**k tha Police | Straight Outta Compton | 1988 |
Gangsta Gangsta | Straight Outta Compton | 1988 |
Express Yourself | Straight Outta Compton | 1988 |
Appetite for Destruction | N.W.A. and the Posse | 1987 |
Dopeman | Straight Outta Compton | 1988 |
Boyz-N-The-Hood | N.W.A. and the Posse | 1987 |
8 Ball | Efil4zaggin | 1991 |
Wu-Tang Clan
Song | Album | Year |
---|---|---|
C.R.E.A.M. | Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) | 1993 |
Protect Ya Neck | Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) | 1993 |
Bring da Ruckus | Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) | 1993 |
Clan in da Front | Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) | 1993 |
Wu-Tang Clan Ain’t Nuthing ta F’ Wit | Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) | 1993 |
Method Man | Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) | 1993 |
Can It All Be So Simple | Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) | 1993 |
Tearz | Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) | 1993 |
Conclusion
The 50th anniversary hip hop concert was an epic event showcasing the culture’s rich history. It brought together pioneers and contemporary hitmakers for an unforgettable celebration. The variety of artists demonstrated hip hop’s regional diversity and influence across America. Collaborations between new school and old school artists emphasized the genre’s generational connections. Moving tributes were paid to fallen legends who paved the way. By all accounts, the concert was a joyous, spirited commemoration of hip hop and its ability to unite people. It will live on as a marker of the culture’s global impact and continued evolution over 50 incredible years.