History of the Bay: Hugh E MC

Hugh EMC is possibly the first San Francisco rapper to distribute an official release with the 1988 single, "It's The Game." His early songs like "H-Nigga Groove" (aka "Keep A Bitch Broke") and EP "Gangsta Knowledge" with DJ X-1 inspired an entire generation of SF hip-hop. Hugh's hardcore storytelling raps were directly inspired by witnessing the Fillmoe neighborhood change during the crack era. As a teen, he co-founded a gang from his projects, the Outta Control Posse, and entered into drug dealing and pimping. Hugh transitioned into starting his own record label and distributing tapes, eventually signing with In-A-Minute Records. Along the way he linked up with San Francisco rap legend Cougnut and helped mentor aspiring artists from his neighborhood like JT The Bigga Figga. After a prison stint derailed his rap career, Hugh transitioned into college education, radio broadcasting, and youth mentoring. He continues to work with youth and makes new music with a positive message.