A pioneering figure in the creation of hip-hop culture, he is often credited with developing the breakbeat DJing technique. Born in Jamaica, he moved to the Bronx, New York, where he began hosting parties in the early 1970s. His innovative use of two turntables to extend the break section of songs laid the groundwork for hip-hop music. While primarily known for his contributions to music rather than film, his influence on urban culture has been profound and enduring.