He is called, 'The Father of Black Radio,' and rightly so. A radio DJ in the 1940's and 1950's, 'Jack The Rapper,' became famous for creating a new style of announcing. Before Jack came on the scene all radio DJ's were allowed to sit and entertain distant audiences. However, Jack created a new style for radio control rooms where he 'elevated the equipment' causing Disc Jockeys to stand, thereby allowing greater voice projection. He was also the first National Director of Promotions and Public Relations for Motown.
In 1949 he opened the first black owned radio station station in Atlanta, specifically (WERD). Everyone (Dr. Dre, Luke Records, Death Row Records, Method Man, Mary J Blige etc )who was anyone attended, 'Jack The Rappers Conventions in the 1990's.' Unfortunately, Jack The Rapper passed away 13 years ago after a long, untimely bout with prostate cancer.
No one has held a 'Jack The Rapper Convention,' since the year 2000 'The Father of Black Radio's' passing.
Let's fast forward to present day. The 'New Jack The Rapper Convention' is being advertised as a three city convention event, targeting the following cities: Houston (All Star Weekend), Atlanta and New York City.
According to a lawsuit filed in early January 2013, promoters or shall we call them opportunists 'Steve "Face" Riley' and 'Billy D. Foster' (out of Atlanta) decided to organize this 'contrived' event without seeking permission from Mr. Jack 'The Rapper' Gibson's heirs or family members. The lawsuit alleges, 'the promoters have chosen to pirate Jacks iconic moniker and promote their event as the 'new' reincarnation of the infamous Jack The Rapper.'
Should the hip hop community support this event or should we consider the refusal or neglect to obtain permission from his family disrespectful? After all Jack does have family (he is survived by a daughter, son and grandchildren) who cared enough to file a lawsuit.
Almost forgot to mention Jacks family is planning to hold an 'authentic' Jack The Rapper' convention in later this year in Atlanta. It is recommended that you keep your ear to the streets for the original.
