The History of Mr. Magic's Rap Attack

John Rivas got his start as a Disco DJ in 1979. In 1983, as more and more hip-hop became pressed on vinyl, he created an all-rap radio show on the small radio station WHBI. In 1984, New York's WBLS picked up the show, making Rap Attack the first and only all-rap radio show on a major broadcasting station. He was accompanied by acclaimed DJ and producer Marley Marl who did all of the live mixing.

Rap Attack was on the air 'til 1989, and in that time became a major influence on the spread of hip-hop culture throughout New York and nationwide. Magic would play records that had yet to be officially released, giving many underground artists a cult following before their music could even be purchased. A number of prolific rappers would mention Magic on their songs, including Nas, Tupac, Biggie Smalls, and Madlib (as Quasimoto). Magic himself would also record a single song: 1984's "Magic's Message (There Has Got To Be a Better Way)," produced by himself alongside Spyder-D. He passed away on October 2nd, 2009, from a heart attack. Marley Marl is still active to this day.

A number of Rap Attack's original broadcasts are available online. Here's one from November 2nd, 1985. I highly recommend listening if just to appreciate Marley Marl's live mixing skills.