Beyond its technical achievements, "Planet Rock" helped define the term "Hip-Hop" globally as Bambaataa began using the phrase on promotional posters during his subsequent world tours.
Released in 1982 by Tommy Boy Records, by Afrika Bambaataa & The Soulsonic Force is considered a "year-zero" for electro and a cornerstone of hip-hop culture. The track famously fused Bronx street culture with European electronic futurism, specifically borrowing the melody from Kraftwerk's "Trans-Europe Express" and the rhythm from their track "Numbers". The Birth of Electro-Funk Afrika Bambaataa & The Soulsonic Force - Planet...
The song was a collaborative effort between Bambaataa, producer Arthur Baker, and musician John Robie. The Birth of Electro-Funk The song was a
: Lyricist Emcee G.L.O.B.E. developed a unique "MC popping" style for the track, which involved rapping off-time—a significant departure from the disco-oriented rap popular in the late '70s. producer Arthur Baker