Know Your History # 49 – Rap Names by Thewordisbond.Com on Mixcloud

Welcome to Know Your History, your monthly dose of hip-hop knowledge. We are kicking off Season 5 of the program today with a special hour-long edition of the show. This documentary series gives us a chance to explore a wide variety of topics and look closely at hip-hop music and culture.

Today, we are exploring the names we use in this art-form. Rappers, DJs, and producers often adopt a moniker that becomes them. And while it is rare to use your actual name as your stage name, it is done. We will see that today.

But first, let’s explore the embarrassing names some rappers have had in the past. I know there are several of us that donned names we would rather forget and erase for the history banks completely. Sometimes, that is easier said than done.

Finding a name that works, that represents us, and that is unique and original isn’t as easy as it sounds.

In this episode of the show, I talk to these talented individuals about their names

Marco Polo
Branded Moore
Philly Moves
Cesar Comanche
Bishop Nehru
Frankie Payne
Lee Reed
Run-DMC
Eklipz
J57
Animal Farm

and I play these tracks

Branded Moore – The MC
Marco Polo / Masta Ace – Nostalgia
Run-DMC – Jam Master Jay
Eklipz – Just Do It
Brown Bag All Stars – The Agenda
D-Sisive – If

The Word is Bond Rap Radio Hour – bringing you the best in real hip-hop music and talk every week on your radio dial, Internet browser, and podcast provider.