One of the most important hiphop songs ever written. It is known primarily for the incisive and iconic lyrics by Melle Mel. The video is characterised by a raw documentary portrait of the South Bronx in New York City, the legendary birthplace of hiphop. Sylvia Robinson, Founder/CEO of Sugar Hill Records, was credited as a songwriter, and it is likely that she was also closely involved in the production of the music video, which makes her an early video artist in need of study.

The Message, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five, 1982, Sugar Hill Records

Writers: Edward G. Fletcher, Melle Mel, Clifton ‘Jiggs’ Chase, Sylvia Robinson

Producers: Edward G. Fletcher, Sylvia Robinson