MC Hammer

MC Hammer is an iconic rapper, dancer, and entrepreneur who gained worldwide fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Hammer developed his stage name during his time as a batboy for the Oakland Athletics, where he was nicknamed “Hammer” for his resemblance to baseball legend Hank Aaron. Hammer’s career took off in 1988 with the release of his album "Let’s Get It Started," which introduced his energetic dance style and unique sound, combining hip-hop with pop and gospel influences. Known for his vibrant stage presence, Hammer quickly became a sensation in the rap world.

Hammer's success skyrocketed with his 1990 album "Please Hammer Don’t Hurt ‘Em," the first hip-hop album to achieve diamond certification with over 10 million copies sold in the U.S. alone. This record included the Grammy-winning single “U Can’t Touch This,” featuring an unforgettable Rick James sample. His flashy style, trademark parachute pants, and choreographed dance moves made Hammer a cultural phenomenon, setting trends in both fashion and music. MC Hammer continued to influence the pop culture world through his ventures in television, such as starring in a Saturday-morning cartoon named "Hammerman" in 1991 and his own reality show titled "Hammertime," which aired on the A&E Network during the summer of 2009.

Throughout his career, Hammer managed his own recording business, taking on the role of a record label CEO. His entrepreneurial ventures extended into the tech industry when he co-created DanceJam.com, a popular dance website. Despite facing significant financial challenges in 1996, which led to a period of reinvention, Hammer showcased his versatility and adaptability in the evolving entertainment industry. He later embraced entrepreneurship, investing in tech and launching digital media projects.

Today, MC Hammer is celebrated for his contributions to music and dance and as a cultural icon who helped bring rap to mainstream audiences. BET has recognized his influence in dance, ranking him as the No. 7 "Best Dancer of All Time." MC Hammer's influence on hip-hop and popular culture continues to be recognized and celebrated worldwide.