Eddie Cheba, a legendary figure in Hip-Hop’s early days has passed away, according to reports.
As confirmed by his close friend Van Silk and sister Sarah Shawn on February 13, 2024, Cheba passed away after facing health issues, including strokes. His memory lives on, not just as one of Hip-Hop’s earliest rapping DJs, but as a source of inspiration for industry giants like Russell Simmons, co-founder of Def Jam Records.
Eddie Cheba, a DJ who made his mark in the bustling music scene of 1970s New York City, was a force to be reckoned with. His electrifying performances captivated audiences and set the stage for the evolution of Hip-Hop. Cheba, along with contemporaries like Hollywood and Love Bug Starsky, played a pivotal role during the genre’s formative years, laying the groundwork for its future success.
Cheba’s influence extends far beyond his own career. His performances served as the catalyst for Russell Simmons’ foray into Hip-Hop. In an emotional tribute on Instagram, Simmons expressed his disappointment in the Hip-Hop community for not recognizing Cheba’s contributions. He urged others to acknowledge the late DJ’s role in shaping the culture and to give him the respect he rightly deserves.
“one more legendary groundbreaking rapper has passed and the hip-hop community was too uneducated to give him the proper flowers he deserved.”
He said, “It was Cheba or Hollywood, and if you couldn’t get one of those, definitely go get smaller venues make sure u reach out and get Love Bug Starsky (rip) and charge less but that’s the fact . Is it was in that order they were the 3 biggest stars and they were the reason we got to make rap records as a promoter of hip hop promoting all 5 boroughs, I’m 100000% sure that before there was a recording art when there was only performance artists Eddie Cheba was a major mastermind of hip hop all these rich rappers and “moguls” you are standing on his shoulders!!!!! GIVE THE MAN HIS FLOWERS RIP THE GREAT LEGENDARY EDDIE CHEBA.”
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Cheba’s legacy is not only defined by his influence on industry legends but also by his own accomplishments. In 1979, he released the rap record ‘Lookin’ Good’ on Treeline Records, a testament to his talent and vision. As the Hip-Hop community mourns the loss of this legendary figure, his music continues to inspire new generations of artists and fans alike.
As we remember Eddie Cheba, it’s essential to honor his contributions to Hip-Hop. His impact on the genre is immeasurable, and his legacy continues to reverberate through the music that defines our culture. Rest in peace, Eddie Cheba.
