Planet Rock

“Planet Rock” is the 1982 hit single from Afrika Bambaataa and the Soul Sonic Force. The lyrics encouraged the idea of coming together and having fun. Afrika Bambaataa and the Soul Sonic Force, along with producers Arthur Baker (b. 1955) and John Robie (birthdate unknown), released “Planet Rock” in April 1982, which innovated Hip-Hop and Electronic music by being the first and most notable group to use synthesizers and the TR-808 drum machine. The New York Times  named “Planet Rock” the most influential Black Pop record of 1982 and it eventually became a certified Gold record. “Planet Rock” remains a sampling staple in the Hip-Hop community and continues to influence innovation in music with the wide use of drum machines found in many subgenres of Hip-Hop such as Miami Bass and Trap Music.