Disco King Mario facts for kids

Disco King Mario (born July 1, 1956 – died May 21, 1994) was an important early figure in Hip Hop. In the 1970s, Mario was a well-known DJ in the New York area of Bronx. He lived in the Bronxdale Housing projects. His exciting parties there made him very popular in his neighborhood.

Early DJing Days

In the 1970s, Hip Hop was just starting out. In The Bronx, DJs were the main stars at block parties. Rappers were also part of the show, but the DJ was the most important. Mario hosted many early parties in Rosedale Park, also called 'Big Park'. Mario and his group, known as Chuck Chuck City, mostly played fast-paced disco music.

Mario was famous for his excellent sound system. He built his sound system over many years. Having a great sound system was very important for DJs back then. It helped them make their music sound amazing for everyone at the parties.

Influence on Hip Hop

Disco King Mario never released any music records. He was a pioneer in Hip Hop, but he did not become famous nationwide. Many other early rap and hip hop artists became well-known performers or producers.

Afrika Bambaataa started his career as an assistant to Mario. Mario even lent Bambaataa the equipment for his first DJ shows. Bambaataa's first DJ battle was against Mario in 1976. This battle took place at New York Junior High School 123. DJ Jazzy Jay also had his first performances with Mario.

Mario also helped rapper Busy Bee Starski find his unique voice. Busy Bee Starski mentioned Mario in his 1988 song Old School. This song was on his album Running Thangs. Grandmaster Caz also spoke about Mario in a song released in 2005.

Remembering Disco King Mario

Many Hip Hop legends honored Disco King Mario in Rosedale Park. This is the same park in The Bronx where Mario used to play music in the 1970s. Famous artists like Grand Master Melle Mel and Kurtis Blow were there. Many female pioneers, including Lisa Lee, also attended. They all came to remember Mario's important role in Hip Hop history.