Afrika Bambaataa, Hip Hop Pioneer and Zulu Nation Founder, Passes Away at 68

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 08:48:00 +0200

Afrika Bambaataa, the influential hip hop pioneer and founder of the Universal Zulu Nation, has passed away at the age of 68. Bambaataa, born in New York City in 1957, played a crucial role in the development of hip hop culture, particularly in the Bronx during its early years. As one of the genre's founding figures, he was instrumental in promoting hip hop through music, dance, fashion, and community activism. His electro-funk style was groundbreaking, and his efforts helped spread hip hop around the world. Through the Universal Zulu Nation, Bambaataa sought to unite youth and channel their energy into creative expression. However, Bambaataa’s later years were marred by serious allegations of sexual misconduct, starting in 2016 when former music executive Ronald Savage accused him of abuse. While other individuals came forward with similar claims, some allegations were later retracted or revised. Despite these controversies, Bambaataa’s legacy as a cultural icon in the global hip hop