02/11/2026
Gilbert Scott-Heron (April 1, 1949- May 27, 2011) was an American jazz poet, singer, musician, and author, known for his spoken-word performances in the 1970s and 1980s. He was often called the "Godfather of Rap," for his politically charged spoken-word performances that fused jazz, soul, and funk with sharp critiques of racism, inequality, and media manipulation, profoundly influencing hip-hop and social commentary in music. His work, like "The Revolution Will Not Be Televised," gave a powerful voice to Black American struggles and inspired generations of artists to use music for social change.