Grooves & Samples #18: The Mohawks – Beat Me ‘Til I’m Blue (1968)

Pianist and composer Alan Hawkshaw is no secret among crate diggers and hip hop enthusiasts. His arrangements played a major part in the early development of hip hop and were utilized by the likes of Afrika Bambaataa, Marley Marl, Eric B., DJ Jazzy Jeff, and so many more. In particular, “The Champ” was sampled extensively and is still a massive b-boy anthem.