Meaning: The quote "I was called Kool Dj Kurt Walker... but they wanted to call me Kurtis Blow" by Kurtis Blow, a pioneering figure in the early development of hip-hop music, encapsulates an important moment in the artist's career and the evolution of the hip-hop genre as a whole. Born Kurtis Walker, he adopted the stage name Kurtis Blow, which ultimately became a pivotal part of his identity and legacy.

Kurtis Blow is often recognized as one of the first commercially successful rappers and a key figure in the popularization of hip-hop music during the late 1970s and early 1980s. His impact on the genre is significant, as he helped to bring rap music to a wider audience and set the stage for the global phenomenon that hip-hop has become today.

The quote reflects the process of artistic identity formation and the influence of external forces on an artist's career. The name "Kurtis Blow" was not initially Kurtis Walker's preferred moniker, as he was originally known as "Kool Dj Kurt Walker." However, it is clear from the quote that external pressures or industry demands led to the adoption of the name "Kurtis Blow." This decision ultimately shaped his public persona and contributed to the establishment of his brand within the music industry.

The evolution of an artist's name is often a significant aspect of their career trajectory. In the case of Kurtis Blow, the transition from "Kool Dj Kurt Walker" to "Kurtis Blow" marked a pivotal moment in his journey as a musician. The new name not only served as a rebranding effort but also became synonymous with his contributions to hip-hop culture.

Furthermore, the quote sheds light on the power dynamics within the music industry and the role of record labels and marketing in shaping an artist's image. It suggests that there are often external influences that impact an artist's self-presentation and public perception. In the case of Kurtis Blow, the decision to change his name was likely influenced by the desire to create a marketable and memorable persona that would resonate with audiences and contribute to his commercial success.

Kurtis Blow's impact on the hip-hop genre extends beyond his stage name. He is credited with releasing the first rap song to be certified gold, "The Breaks," in 1980. This achievement solidified his position as a trailblazer in the industry and set the stage for the future commercial success of hip-hop music.

In conclusion, the quote "I was called Kool Dj Kurt Walker... but they wanted to call me Kurtis Blow" by Kurtis Blow encapsulates the process of artistic identity formation and the influence of external forces on an artist's career. It reflects the impact of industry dynamics on an artist's public persona and underscores the significance of a name in shaping an artist's brand within the music industry. Kurtis Blow's journey from "Kool Dj Kurt Walker" to "Kurtis Blow" represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of hip-hop music and highlights the enduring legacy of one of the genre's pioneering figures.