About the Song
Released in 1980, “The Breaks” by Kurtis Blow is widely considered one of the pioneering tracks in the history of hip hop. As one of the genre’s first major commercial successes, “The Breaks” introduced a broader audience to hip hop music and culture, solidifying Kurtis Blow‘s place as one of rap’s early stars. Known for its catchy beat, storytelling lyrics, and infectious energy, the song helped lay the groundwork for the evolution of rap music.
Lyrically, “The Breaks” is a clever commentary on the ups and downs of life. The term “breaks” in the song refers to the various challenges and setbacks people face, whether it’s in relationships, finances, or personal struggles. Despite these challenges, the song maintains a playful, upbeat tone, with Kurtis Blow celebrating the resilience required to keep going in the face of adversity. The lyrics are delivered in a rhythmic, almost chant-like style, making it both a memorable and anthemic track. The repeated refrain “These are the breaks” gives the song a catchy, sing-along quality that helped it stand out in the early hip hop scene.
Musically, “The Breaks” features a funk-driven beat, with a catchy bassline and percussion that became emblematic of early hip hop production. The song’s upbeat rhythm and simple, looped melody make it easy to dance to, while the addition of a call-and-response vocal style and the inclusion of a fun, infectious chorus helped it cross over into mainstream popularity. The beat is somewhat stripped-down compared to later hip hop productions, but it served as a blueprint for the genre’s focus on rhythm and wordplay.
“The Breaks” was a commercial breakthrough for Kurtis Blow, becoming the first rap single to be certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The track helped Kurtis Blow gain widespread recognition, and it remains one of the most important songs in hip hop history for its role in bringing the genre into the mainstream.
Overall, “The Breaks” is a landmark song in the history of hip hop, notable not only for its catchy beat and memorable lyrics but also for its role in paving the way for future generations of rap artists. Kurtis Blow‘s charismatic performance and the song’s energetic, positive message made it a trailblazer in the genre and a timeless anthem for overcoming life’s struggles.