Chuck D (b.1960,) fully Carlton Douglas Ridenhour, is an American rapper, activist, and author, best known as the leader of Public Enemy, which revolutionized politically conscious hip-hop in the late 1980s and 1990s. His work shaped rap music, social commentary, and cultural activism.
Born in Hempstead, New York, Chuck D studied graphic design at Adelphi University, where he met Flavor Flav, his future bandmate. In 1985, they co-founded Public Enemy, releasing Yo! Bum Rush the Show (1987.) Their follow-up, It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back (1988,) became a hip-hop landmark, featuring Bring the Noise and Don’t Believe the Hype.
Chuck D has authored several books, including Fight the Power: Rap, Race, and Reality (1997,) examining hip-hop’s role in social justice, and Welcome to the Terrordome: The Pain, Politics, and Promise of Sports (2009.) His latest, Livin’ Loud (2023,) showcases his artwork and reflections on hip-hop culture.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Chuck D
Never let a win get to your head, or a loss to your heart.
—Chuck D
Topics: Sports
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