This Day in Hip Hop & R&B History: February 4
February 4th marks the release of groundbreaking music, timeless performances, and other events that have shaped Hip Hop and R&B. On this date in 2007, music legend Prince brought down the Super Bowl halftime show with an otherworldly performance of “Purple Rain.” On the same date in 2015, American rapper and singer Post Malone, then 19, uploaded a demo version of his debut single “White Iverson” on his Soundcloud account. The single, now certified Diamond by RIAA, went viral, landing Malone his first record deal with Republic Records and launching his career.
Breakthrough Hits and Milestones
Several chart-topping singles and albums have been released on this date over the years, many of which have left a lasting mark on these genres:
- 2008: G-Unit releases the acclaimed “This is 50 Vol. 1: The Return Of The Body Snatchers” mixtape.
- 2022: Atlanta rapper 2 Chains releases his seventh studio album, “Dope Don’t Sell Itself,” through Def Jam Records.
- 2022: American rapper Saba releases his third studio album, “Few Good Things,” through Pivot Gang LLC, featuring notable artists like 6lack, G Herbo, Krayzie Bone, Mereba, and Smino.
Cultural Milestones
Apart from marking the release of many influential albums, February 4th has hosted many events that have shaped the culture:
- 1986: Janet Jackson, then 19, asserts creative control on her groundbreaking third studio album, “Control,” which would pave the way for future R&B icons like Destiny’s Child, Beyonce, and TLC.
- 2024: Atlanta rapper Killer Mike sweeps the rap categories at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards, bagging the Best Rap Album, Best Rap Performance, and Best Rap Song.
- 2024: Jay Z becomes the second-ever recipient of the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards for his numerous achievements over a career spanning decades.
Notable Recordings and Performances
Several iconic performances and recordings have also taken place on February 4th:
- 2002: Music legend Stevie Wonder sings the single “Happy Birthday” from his Hotter Than July (1980) album to civil rights activist Rosa Parks during her 89th birthday celebration.
- 2024: R&B legend Brandy and rapper 21 Savage join Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Burna Boy for his performances of “City Boys,” “On Form,” and “Sitting On Top Of The World” at the 66th Grammy Awards.
- 2024: Singer-songwriter SZA excites the audience with a performance of her single “Snooze” from her second studio album after bagging a win for the same in the Best R&B Song category at the 66th Grammy Awards.
Industry Changes and Challenges
The Hip Hop and R&B scenes have also witnessed numerous changes and evolutions on February 4th over the years:
- 2011: Rapper and DJ Funkmaster Flex is arrested for assaulting his wife and texting threats.
- 2013: R&B and Soul singer Darlene McCrea, who founded The Cookies before becoming a member of The Raelets, dies at age 76.
- 2021: Singer-songwriter Nolan Porter, best known for his hit “Keep On Keeping On,” dies at age 71.
From groundbreaking album releases to unforgettable performances, February 4th has witnessed some of the most influential moments in hip-hop and R&B history. As this genre continues to grow, these milestones serve as reminders of the genre’s power, influence, and ability to push boundaries.
