Despite all of the Lil' Young Knockoffs out there, hip-hop isn’t dead—just take a look at the lineup for last weekend’s Rock the Bells (Aug. 3). Featuring reunited acts Pharcyde, De La Soul, and A Tribe Called Quest, big names like Nas and Mos Def, and up-and-coming artists like Santogold, this concert is a prime example of the genre’s vitality. Even if you don’t make it to the show or the after-party at Cielo, there’s no denying the appeal of classic hip-hop’s fresh style. Wondering where else to take it back to the old school in NYC? Let us break it down for you.
Southpaw
125 5th Ave. (Sterling Pl. & St. Johns Pl.)
Park Slope 718.230.0236
Get your monthly “Rub”-down every first Saturday at Southpaw with the three dudes that make up this hot-on-the-circuit trio—DJ Ayres, Cosmo Baker, and DJ Eleven. The Rub mashes beats from decades past, with an emphasis on the ‘90s. But if the music isn’t enough to bring back memories, the drinks are cheap, as is the admission ($10), just like back in the day.
Santos’ Party House
100 Lafayette St. (@ Walker St.)
TriBeCa 212.714.4646
This cavernous club might be better known for its dance culture, but Andrew W.K. and his party team have not forgotten about those who would rather nod their heads to the beat than bust a move. That’s not to say you can’t get down to resident DJs Q-Tip (of A Tribe Called Quest) and New York mainstay Rich Medina every second and last Friday of the month. "Beats, rhymes and life" is the mantra of the party, and what a sweet life it is with the likes of Nas and Busta Rhymes making guest appearances.
B.B. King Blues Club & Grill
237 W. 42nd St. (7th & 8th Aves.)
Midtown 212.997.4144
The classic, jazzy setting of this renowned lounge and grill is enough reason to scramble to Times Square anytime, but when the club hosts hip-hop acts, expect the crowd to step away from the tables and onto the dance floor. Mos Def, Chuck D, Flava Flav, and Ghostface Killa have all played at this intimate venue. Next up, bad girl Foxy Brown on Aug. 14.
S.O.B.’S
204 Varick St. (@ W. Houston St.)
SoHo 212.243.4940
Contrary to popular belief, S.O.B. stands for Sounds of Brazil, and the SoHo club owns up to its acronym by hosting world and reggae musicians. Buy a reasonably priced ticket ($10-$25) to one of these shows and get immersed in the influential beats that continue to impact hip-hop. Or come out to see harder but equally stimulating shows like reggaeton rapper Don Omar.
PowerHouse Arena
37 Main St. (@ Water St.)
DUMBO 866.992.7362
As a longtime supporter of hip-hop culture, PowerHouse Arena is a community center for the movement. On any given day, you can pop in and check out hip-hop books such as “Wild Style the Sampler,” a compilation of literature and images dissecting the 1982 hip-hop cult documentary Wild Style, as well as catch acts like local MC Fresh Daily, who recently performed as part of the Brooklyn Hip Hop Festival.
this article does not let me know what's happening in hip hop this weekend???? what ages are partying at these spots that are mentioned? i'm over 30 and don't want to party with 22 yr olds so what's the dealie yo? this article tells me about foxy in aug and it sept???how about an update? ur killing me
9/6/2008 11:40:11 PM
Want to make a comment? Log in below (it's free!) to give us your two cents. C'mon, don't be shy!
Log In
Please enter your e-mail address and password to log in.
Not A Member Yet?
Why deny yourself? New members are always welcome to join our club.
