Comments

Interviewee: Mark "Po" Dean

The interviewer is Dr. Steven Payne, Research Librarian and Archivist for The Bronx County Historical Society (Now Director of The BCHS).

Summary by Emma Garr

June 9, 2022

This interview of Bronx resident Mark “Po” Dean recounts life in the West Bronx during the mid 1970’s. Dean is a former resident of 1520 Sedgwick Ave, who resided in the building at a critical time in hip hop and Bronx history. Being one of a number of kids to grow up in the building, his family came later than the first few residents, but early enough to have witnessed the community form. Remembering a strict upbringing in early childhood, he tells of an inability to interact much with the music and building community due to his father’s strict adherence to the Nation of Islam. Though, soon after moving to 1520 Sedgwick Ave, upon the moving out of his father, Dean was allowed to experience the expression that took place all around him.

Disciplines

African American Studies | Public History

Abstract

Dean, first exposed to music through his mother’s occasional record playing, would attend parties and occasionally dance against other b-boys. Upon watching DJ Kool Herc continually unload equipment, Dean found himself immersed in hip hop by first helping DJ Kool Herc move his equipment. He reminisces on the free park parties that these sound systems were taken to, and the ability of the people across the river to hear the sound. Continuing, he discusses the difference between b-boys and breakers, the profound influence of MC’s on hip hop, and the necessary contributions of graffiti to the overall culture. Each part of this culture serves a crucial part in the story of his childhood, from a strict early upbringing to a creative trajectory that would ultimately lead him to bring the music he experienced in the Bronx to Philadelphia years later. For Po Dean, the pivotal time he grew up in is a conglomerate of memories, strength, love, family, and rugged consistency that ultimately describe his fond experience with the Bronx.

LINK TO VIDEO INTERVIEW: https://cdm17265.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/baahp/id/98/rec/51

Download
COinS