Explores the birth of hip-hop and its roots in the 1970's NYC block parties organised by DJ Kool Herc and Afrika Bambaataa.

Close To The Edge

The Hip Hop Years is a three part series of one hour television documentaries, made for Channel 4 in 1999.

The series was devised by David Upshal who produced, directed and narrated the series. He also produced the 33-track compilation CD which accompanied the series and co-wrote the book with Alex Ogg, also titled The Hip Hop Years.

The series charts the definitive story of Hip Hop, rising from the streets of the Bronx to become, what Upshal calls, "the new Rock'n'Roll". The programmes combine archive clips and performance from TV, movies and music videos with specially shot material and interviews with key players.

All Episodes of The Hip Hop Years

All Episodes of The Hip Hop Years

Season 1

Close To The Edge

Season 1 Episode 1 - Aired 1/1/1999