There were many BIG moments that happened in hip hop during the 1980s and early 90s and Marley Marl happened to be a part of many of them. One of these moments, and perhaps his first major recognition, came when he produced "Roxanne's Revenge", the response track by Roxanne Shante to UTFO. While coming out on the winning side of that "battle", this would not be the last legendary back-and-forth Marl would be involved in.

Marley Marl is perhaps best known for his work with MC Shan, and more specifically, their track "The Bridge". This track, which Marley produced, started one of the most documented battles in hip hop history, known as The Bridge Wars, and helped propel Boogie Down Productions into hip hop superstardom. However, Marl has done much more than just been involved in battles.

Known as one of the innovators when it comes to sampling and reprogramming breakbeats, Marl produced for some of the biggest artists in hip hop throughout his career. His label Cold Chillin' housed several of them, with the collective going by the name of the Juice Crew. The Juice Crew was made up of legendary artists Roxanne Shante, Kool G. Rap & DJ Polo, Biz Markie, Big Daddy Kane, MC Shan, and Masta Ace. The individual careers of each of these artists had significant impacts on the culture, but they also showed what they could do as a collective when they dropped the single "The Symphony".

Marley's biggest hit came in 1990 when he produced LL Cool J's "Mama Said Knock You Out" and although he hasn't been as relevant in recent years, his work and the artists he helped establish continue to leave a footprint on hip hop today. So, to Marley Marl we say...Respect Due.

What are your thoughts on Marley Marl? What's your favorite Marley Marl song or instrumental? Leave all your thoughts and comments below. You can send any e-mails to straightouttahiphop@gmail.com.

Peace.

Sources:
http://www.allmusic.com/artist/marley-marl-p101803/biography
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marley_Marl