The Art and Influence of Hip Hop

[Jazzy Jay]

Jazzy Jay's stage-worn Soulsonic costume, [1982]

Lot Closed

March 30, 04:11 PM GMT

Estimate

5,000 - 8,000 USD

Lot Details

Description

Jazzy Jay's Soulsonic Costume, worn on-stage during the peak of Planet Rock's popularity, ca. 1982.

Custom made one-piece performance costume, shoulder to end approx. 53 in. (134.6 cm.), length from shoulder to wrist approx. 23 in. (58.4 cm.), back-zip, glittery green, black, and gold, with amber sequins, brown tassels on both arms, accompanied by matching headpiece and large gold belt.

DJ JAZZY JAY'S CUSTOM SOULSONIC FORCE STAGE COSTUME

The costume offered here was worn on stage in 1982 as Jazzy Jay DJed for the Soulsonic Force during “Planet Rock's" peak of popularity. As one of the first members of the Zulu Nation, a funky, futuristic vibe was standard for Jazzy Jay whose imagery, iconography, and fashion referenced the group's ideals of bringing together all races, religions, and nationalities, all in service of “peace, love, unity, and having fun.” Starting in the late '70s in New York City, the Zulu Nation would convene youth events that combined all the various elements that now fall under the cultural umbrella of Hip Hop.

In the '70s, in the Bronx, at the young age of 13, Jazzy Jay began his career in Hip Hop before Hip Hop was even a thing. During the early '80s—first at countless local parties and then on his own radio show on Kiss FM—Jay would spin records at classic New York City clubs including The Roxy, T-Connection, Danceteria, and Negril.

Provenance:

From the personal collection of Jazzy Jay

Condition Report:

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