About Boom Bap Boulevard

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What's good everyone! Welcome to "Boom Bap Boulevard", your one-stop destinae Golden Era of hip-hop. My name is Ted smoov and I’m a lifelong hip-hop head, crate digger, and storyteller with an unshakable love for the raw, unfiltered hip hop sounds of the ’80s and ’90s. This blog is my love letter to the culture, the music, and the artists who shaped a generation and continue to inspire me every single day.

My Journey into the Golden Era  

Growing up, I was surrounded by the crackle of vinyl, the thump of basslines, and the sharp snare hits that defined the boom bap sound. Whether it was my older sibling’s cassette tapes, the block parties in my neighborhood, or the graffiti-covered walls of my city and the subways, hip-hop was everywhere. But it wasn’t just music to me—it was a way of life. The Golden Era of hip-hop (roughly 1986 to 1996) was a time when creativity, authenticity, and storytelling reigned supreme. It was an era where DJs, MCs, breakdancers, and graffiti artists came together to create something revolutionary, and I’ve been hooked ever since, and it changed my life.  

 What Boom Bap Means to Me  

Boom bap isn’t just a sound—it’s a feeling. It’s the thumping drums, the soulful samples, and the lyrical greatness of MCs who painted vivid pictures of their lives, struggles, and dreams. It’s the sound of New York City streets, the echo of basement ciphers, and the heartbeat of a culture that refused to be silenced. Artists like Nas, Gang Starr, A Tribe Called Quest, Wu-Tang Clan, Pete Rock & CL Smooth, Brand Nubian and Big L weren’t just making music; they were crafting timeless art. And that’s what I aim to celebrate here on Boom Bap Boulevard.

What You’ll Find on This Blog  

On this blog, I'll dive deep into the music, the stories, and the culture that defined the Golden Era. Here’s what you can expect:  

Album Reviews & Breakdowns: In-depth analyses of classic albums and hidden gems from the era.  

Artist Spotlights: Celebrating the legends and unsung heroes who shaped the sound.  

Sample Origins: Exploring the soul, jazz, and funk records that provided the backbone for iconic beats.  

Essays & Reflections: Personal stories and thoughts on how the Golden Era continues to influence modern hip-hop and my life.  

Why I Created Boom Bap Boulevard  

Me and my wife created this blog because I believe the Golden Era of hip-hop deserves to be preserved, celebrated, and passed down to future generations. In a world where music often feels disposable and trashy, the artistry and authenticity of this era stand the test of time. Whether you’re a seasoned hip-hop head or a newcomer curious about the roots of the culture, I hope this blog becomes a place where you can learn, reminisce, and feel the same passion I do for this incredible movement.

Join Me on This Journey  

Hip-hop is about community, and I want Boom Bap Boulevard to feel like a gathering spot for like-minded souls who appreciate the culture. Drop a comment, share your favorite tracks, or hit me up with your thoughts. Let’s keep the spirit of the Golden Era alive together.  

So, lace up your Timbs, grab your favorite pair of headphones, take out the cd's and let’s take a walk down Boom Bap Boulevard. The rhythm is waiting, and the stories are endless.  

Peace, love, and hip-hop,  

Ted Smoov, Johvoni  

Co-founders of Boom Bap Boulevard