Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on April 2012

You know hip-hop’s come of age when its founding fathers start showing up at posh supper clubs. A member of NYC’s Juice Crew, Big Daddy Kane debuted in the ’80s with the “fast-rap” style, and went on to mentor Jay-Z and influence Eminem’s delivery. Honored guest for the night is Kurtis Blow, who predates even Kane in the history of hip-hop. With his 1979 single “Christmas Raps” Blow claims one of rap’s very first hits—he went on to pen a stream of hits for himself and Run DMC through the ’80s. The pair have been performing together recently including a tribute to Heavy D at last year’s Soul Train Awards.

Billboard Live, Apr 25-26 (listing).