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Photo: CC BY 3.0/ John Leffmann
In 1985 two University friends Chuck D and Flavor Flav formed a pioneering rap group on Long Island, New York that would change the face of music culture.
Chuck D’s unique style and delivery was ahead of the curve. Born 12 years before the official ‘birth’ of hip hop, the co-founder of the prolific group Public Enemy had the privilege of watching the culture evolve in front of him.
The musician is still a passionate champion of New York, a city synonymous with hip hops delivery. His love for The Knicks Basketball team keeps Chuck D looped into his hometown while on tour.
He adopted pilates as his preferred tool for keeping fit on the road in his 50’s, a practice he credits with helping him stay fit for performing.
Now, at age 63 he has combined three of his greatest loves, illustration, sport and music in a new book called Rap Pilates. A collaboration between the hip hop icon and his instructor Kathy Lopez, which includes hand drawings from the artist of each Pilates pose.
He is also a prolific artist and believes he has made 15000 pieces over the past eight years.
"I have a art career that has exploded over the last eight years and I didn't reject It I wanted to go into it but one thing lead to another"
"I always like to do art, love it or hate it draws and strikes an emotion with you".
Hip Hop legends Flavor Flav and Chuck D and from Public Enemy Photo: Sanjay Suchak
Chuck D’s insightful social and political commentary in Public Enemy inspired a wave of youth in Aotearoa and now after 10 years he and his friend Flavor Flav are ready to play for fans at home.
"I am actually writing this book right now and 2024 is about all the incidents that have happened. This crazy wild ass year all the way up to days a go in the United States and yesterday at the republican convention"
"I can not explain what I am seeing and I cannot even pretend I know what I am seeing".
Now the legendary hip hop group are back in Aotearoa to perform in October to Auckland's Trust Arena on October 15. Joined by local rapper, MELODOWNZ for their On The Grid 35th Anniversary Tour.
Maggie Tweedie speaks to Chuck D about his surprising passion for Pilates, his many memorable live performances and his prolific work as a musician and artist.