For fans of electronic music, hip-hop, or anyone curious about the roots of modern club culture, Planet Rock is an essential listen—a timeless reminder of music’s power to innovate and unite
Few tracks in the history of electronic music and hip-hop can claim the revolutionary status of Afrika Bambaataa & Soulsonic Force’s Planet Rock. Released in 1982, this EP didn’t just change the face of music—it laid the groundwork for multiple genres, from electro-funk to techno and beyond. Planet Rock is both a cultural milestone and an enduring sonic masterpiece. The song melded electronic hip hop beats with the main melody from Kraftwerk‘s Trans-Europe Express, as well as portions from records by Ennio Morricone and Captain Sky – thus creating a new style of music altogether, electro funk. It influenced many styles of electronic and dance music, e.g. freestyle music, house music and techno music…
Planet Rock
At its core, Planet Rock is a groundbreaking fusion of hip-hop, electronic music, and funk. Produced by Arthur Baker and John Robie, the track incorporates Roland TR-808 drum machine beats, an innovation that would go on to define electronic music. The production also borrows heavily from Kraftwerk’s Trans-Europe Express and Numbers, blending their robotic, minimalist synth lines with funk-driven rhythms. This hybrid approach created an entirely new sound—electro. The EP’s title track is a pulsating, futuristic anthem. Its driving basslines, iconic 808 rhythms, and hypnotic melodies provide the backbone, while Afrika Bambaataa’s commanding vocal hooks inject an undeniable energy. The interplay between robotic synths and human voices creates a dynamic tension that feels timeless.
Planet Rock isn’t just a song; it’s a movement. It marked the dawn of electro-funk and opened the floodgates for hip-hop’s integration with electronic music. Its influence can be heard across genres—Detroit techno, Miami bass, house music, and even pop owe a debt to its pioneering sound. The EP also played a crucial role in expanding the global reach of hip-hop. By merging Afro-futuristic themes with European electronic aesthetics, Planet Rock became a universal anthem, inspiring a new generation of artists worldwide. Afrika Bambaataa and Soulsonic Force redefined what music could be with Planet Rock. It’s a record that still sounds ahead of its time, even decades after its release. From its groundbreaking use of the 808 to its seamless fusion of genres, this EP remains one of the most innovative and influential releases in music history !
