Top Shelf 1988 - Top Shelf 1988 (1988)

1988 was a transformative year in Hip-Hop, both commercially and culturally. It was a year marked by the emergence of now legendary artists such as N.W.A., Slick Rick, Big Daddy Kane, Ultramagnetic MCs, EPMD & MC Lyte (to name only a few) and their classic debut projects. Similarly, groups such as Public Enemy, Boogie Down Productions and Eric B & Rakim were tasked with following up their own classic debut’s—and managed to raise the bar(s) with their respective sophomore offerings.

Undoubtedly, 1988 was one of the genre’s most important and influential years, as its voice and reach grew exponentially and its cultural impact still reverberates to this day.

The immediate question that comes to mind about Top Shelf 1988 is where did this virtual treasure trove of recordings from the genre’s most influential artists in their prime originate from?

A small studio/hang-out-spot existed on Manhattan’s Lower East Side, where a pseudo artist-colony of Hip Hop began to take shape. Top Shelf 1988 Studio was a sanctuary of sorts, a safe haven away from the prying eyes of label execs and their minions, rappers could take a chance with their lyrics and sound. This studio had the presence of forward thinking producers stretching the creative boundaries of Hip-Hop production in 1988. The free atmosphere and dope beats drew the best in the game, as well as the top up-and-comers to lay down classic tracks.

History was in the making until one unfortunate and violent incident. On the weekend of August 6th & 7th 1988 a riot took place on the outskirts of Tompkins Square Park. These hot summer nights were filled with smoldering clashes between police and demonstrators. When the smoke cleared the following Monday, August 8th, the producers returned to their studio to find much of their equipment was looted during the melee. More importantly, the masters were gone as well. Shortly thereafter the studio closed its doors; and along with it a little-known chapter in Hip-Hop history.

For three decades the content of the missing tapes was never heard…

Until now!

“Top Shelf 1988 is many years in the making. I’m so honored that we’re a part of this momentous album” Rostrum Records President Benjy Grinberg exclaimed. “Our hope with the release is that it will inspire people to rediscover all the amazing music from this era. It’s really a celebration of the artists and the artistry of the time.”