Kurtis Blow, born Kurtis Walker on August 9, 1959, in Harlem, New York, is a pioneering figure in hip-hop music. He is recognized as one of the first commercially successful rappers, notable for his contributions to the genre's early development in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Blow's music primarily falls within the hip-hop and rap genres. His most famous tracks include "The Breaks" (1980), which was one of the first rap songs to receive gold certification, and "Christmas Rappin'" (1979), one of the earliest hip-hop holiday songs. Blow was also the first rapper to sign with a major record label, Mercury Records, paving the way for future artists. Beyond his musical contributions, Kurtis Blow played a significant role in bringing hip-hop to mainstream audiences and fostering its cultural impact. He has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts and served as an advocate for hip-hop culture. His influence extends beyond music into television and education, making him a key figure in the evolution and acceptance of hip-hop as a legitimate art form.