Meaning: This quote by Kurtis Blow, a pioneering rapper and hip-hop artist, offers a glimpse into his early life and the challenges he faced growing up in New York City. Through this quote, Kurtis Blow reflects on his experiences as a "hustler" and the various illegal activities he was involved in during his youth.

Kurtis Blow's reference to being a "hustler" suggests that he was involved in a range of illicit activities to make money and survive in a tough urban environment. He mentions "running numbers," which typically refers to participating in illegal gambling operations. This may have involved the underground betting on various games or events, a common practice in many urban communities at the time.

Additionally, Kurtis Blow admits to being a "fence" for stick-up kids, which implies that he was involved in the resale of stolen goods. A "fence" is someone who knowingly buys and sells stolen items, often acting as a middleman between thieves and buyers. This role in the criminal underworld would have exposed him to significant risks and dangers, highlighting the challenges he faced in his early life.

The quote also mentions Kurtis Blow's involvement in selling weed, indicating his participation in the illegal drug trade. This was a common source of income for many young people in inner-city neighborhoods at the time. His admission of being kicked out of the Music and Art High School for this offense sheds light on the consequences of his actions and the impact they had on his education and future prospects.

It is important to note that Kurtis Blow's experiences as a young hustler reflect the harsh realities faced by many individuals growing up in underprivileged communities. Economic hardship, limited opportunities, and exposure to criminal activities often push young people into such behaviors as a means of survival. This quote offers a candid and unfiltered look at the challenges and temptations that Kurtis Blow encountered in his formative years.

Despite his early involvement in illegal activities, Kurtis Blow later found success and fame as a musician. He is widely regarded as one of the pioneering figures in the development of hip-hop and rap music, with his 1980 song "The Breaks" being one of the first rap singles to be certified gold. Throughout his career, Kurtis Blow used his experiences and talents to address social issues and inspire positive change within the hip-hop community.

In conclusion, Kurtis Blow's quote provides a raw and honest account of his early life as a hustler and the struggles he faced growing up in New York City. It sheds light on the challenges and temptations that many young people in underprivileged communities encounter, while also highlighting the potential for personal growth and success despite early hardships. His journey from a troubled youth to a celebrated musician serves as an inspiration and a testament to the power of resilience and determination.