in ,

Funky 4+1 was the first rap group to appear on national television

Share

February 14, 1981 –– Valentine’s Day 1981, marked the first time a group appeared on national television.

‘s Deborah Harry was the host and musical guest on the Valentine’s Day 1981 season- six episode of Saturday Night Live. She sang covers of Teddy Pendergrass’ “Love TKO” backed by the  house band and Devo’s “Come Back Jonee.” joined onstage by Blondie guitarist and boyfriend Chris Stein and drummer Clem Burke. Introducing them as “among the best street rappers in the country” and “her friends from the Bronx.” she then brought out the to perform “That’s the Joint.

Watch the (featuring Sha-Rock) at the 11 minute mark.

Blondie’s guitarist, and Deborah’s then-boyfriend Chris Stein told Wax Poetics contributing editor Andrew Mason, “They let us pick a musical guest to be on with us,” he said. “The people on the were so nervous about them doing it. I remember trying to explain to them how scratching worked. Trying to verbalize what that is for someone who has no idea, it’s really difficult.” and “they wound up going on with a tape.” 

Purchase our 100 Hip-Hop Facts (1973-2000) Book

Read: Kurtis Blow was the first rapper to appear on national television

Read: “Graffiti Rock” was the first hip-hop TV show

Read: ABC News 20/20 presented the first national television coverage of Hip-Hop

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by MC Sha-Rock (@iammcsharock)

New Wu-Tang TV Show will star Dave East

Wu-Tang TV Show Starring Dave East Is Now On Hulu

MC Sha Rock First female rapper

MC Sha-Rock was Hip-Hop’s first female MC