“THE BIRTHPLACE OF HIP HOP” UNVEILS MURAL TO CELEBRATE HIP HOP APPRECIATION WEEK 
Desire Nobility One and a Collective of Graffiti Artists from the Temple of Hip Hop Unveil Banner Celebrating the legacy of Hip Hop at 1520 Sedgwick Avenue in the Bronx – The 1973 Location of DJ Kool Herc’s “Back-to-School Party” That Helped Launch Hip Hop 

1520 Sedgwick Ave, Bronx NY unveiled new artwork in the building celebrating Hip Hop Appreciation Week. The artwork is a collaborative effort between artists Desire Nobility One and a collective of graffiti artists from the Temple of Hip Hop. In 1973, DJ Kool Herc and his sister Cindy Campbell hosted a back-to-school party at 1520 Sedgwick Avenue that played a significant role in the evolution of Hip Hop culture. This new sound along with the energetic atmosphere in the community, propelled Hip Hop as a cultural movement. To honor this legacy, a banner spanning the entire sidewalk scaffolding outside the 102-unit building has been commissioned. 

The mural was designed in honor of the 2024 Hip Hop Appreciation Week, with the theme focusing on Graffiti Art. Artist Desire Nobility One said, “while in the process of restoring the Hip Hop Birthplace and preparing for Hip Hop’s 51st birthday, we just finished the mural outside the rec room and installed beautiful art on the outside scaffolding.” Desire Nobility One is Hip Hop’s Kultureseed, a Hip Hop cultural specialist from the Temple of Hip Hop, and an active Temple member since 2008. 

The story of 1520 Sedgwick intertwines with the rich tapestry of Hip Hop history. This event is not only a celebration of Hip Hop culture, but also commemorates the remarkable journey of 1520 Sedgwick Avenue from neglect and deterioration to a cultural landmark and beacon of housing stability. Urban Homesteading Assistance Board (UHAB) organizers working in collaboration with the 1520 Sedgwick Tenant Association to ensure the dual goals of preserving this historic landmark for the culture while delivering long term affordability for the residents. 

“We would not be the borough we are today without Hip Hop and it all started right here at 1520 Sedgwick Avenue,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “We owe a debt of gratitude to the Urban Homesteading Assistance Board, our hip hop pioneers, and community advocates who fought vehemently for the preservation of Hip Hop culture and housing stability in our borough.” 

“In the face of challenges such as predatory landlords and rising housing costs, 1520 Sedgwick continues to serve as a beacon of stability, allowing residents to thrive and contribute to the rich cultural fabric of our City,” said Margy Brown, Executive Director of UHAB. “We are honored to have played a role in ensuring that this historic landmark remains a vital part of New York City’s affordable housing landscape, empowering Bronx residents for generations.” 

“In 2008, we faced foreclosure, feeling helpless. But with UHAB’s help and John Crotty’s involvement, we rallied. Now, our community thrives,” said Gloria Robinson, President of the 1520 Sedgwick Ave Tenant Association. “Thank you, UHAB and Workforce Housing Group, for standing by us.” 

“Working with the 1520 tenants, UHAB and several Hip Hop leaders to uphold the integrity and history of Hip Hop and its birthplace has been a real education,” said John A. Crotty, part of the ownership entity. “We are grateful to the stewardship and effort played by cultural leaders such as KRS One to ensure successful preservation.” 

The exterior artwork display is part of a broader initiative made possible by a new section of Local Law 163 that permits building owners to display artwork on temporary protective structures. The installation is carried out by The Print Project, a New York-based company that produces large-scale building wrap services across the city.