COLLECTION · Series · 1984

Graffiti Rock

"Graffiti Rock was a TV show based on hip-hop, debuting on June 29, 1984. Intended as a regular series, it only aired a pilot episode on WPIX 11 in New York and 88 markets nationwide, drawing good Nielsen ratings. Graffiti Rock resembled a hip-hop version of popular dance shows like Soul Train and American Bandstand. Created and hosted by Michael Holman, who managed the renowned breakdance crew, the New York City Breakers. The episode featured Run D.M.C., Shannon, the New York City Breakers, DJ Jimmie Jazz, Kool Moe Dee and Special K of the Treacherous Three. The New York City Breakers, riding high after the success of the film Beat Street, made a special appearance. The episode also featured actress Debi Mazar and actor/director Vincent Gallo as dancers. A clip from the show was sampled on the Beastie Boys' album Ill Communication. "[...] it's, you're doing rap now, cut the disc back and forth against the needle, back and forth, make it rap, but let me tell you something, don't try this at home on your dad's stereo, just under the supervision of hip-hop, right?". The show became a must-see for hip-hop fans, alongside titles like Wild Style and Beat Street."