Music History Happens Here

DJ Lady Edie B. was the first person to spin The Sugarhill Gang’s “Rappers Delight” in 1979 on WESL. The 14-minute-long, 12-inch single would later become known as Rap music’s first commercial hit and the beginning of Hip-Hop on the airwaves.

Despite their connection, the legendary musicians and legendary DJ never met – until they came together to make history again at KDHX on July 19, 2024.

DJ Lady Jock, co-host of Time Traveling My Way, was on hand as The Sugarhill Gang and Lady Edie B. met in person for the first time on the air, co-hosting the event with Soopaman DJ Speed on his show The Boombox. Lady Jock is also on-air legacy as the daughter of radio broadcaster, and WESL legend, Dr. Jockenstein.

The studio was packed with St. Louis radio history as “Gentleman” Jim Gates, then co-owner and program director for WESL, recalled handing Edie B. the “Rappers Delight” record and asking her to play it on her show.

Hear the July 19 broadcast again in the KDHX archives.