Imagine Classic Rap Records In A Vinyl Jukebox? It’s Happening (Video)

Regardless of whether it’s a cocktail lounge or a dive-bar, jukeboxes have been a staple of nightlife for more than 80 years. Like a DJ or a curated playlist, these public vending machines are great ways to expose yourself and others to new music, while hearing exactly the music you wish to while you’re out on the town.

Whether it’s CD-driven ‘boxes or the increasingly popular download-based machines, Hip-Hop continues to makes its way onto the litany of music choices. However, for the vintage, vinyl-based jukeboxes that were commonplace (and still are) in some venues and personal collections, what’s Hip-Hop to do?

Get On Down has it covered. Beginning June 24, the Boston, Massachusetts-based boutique label responsible for heavily-curated tribute releases from Nas (gold audiophile CD), The Pharcyde (custom made music box), and Raekwon (purple-tape re-issue) is filling the void. Get On Down’s “The Jukebox Series, Vol. 1” will release.

Label co-founder Matt Welch (a/k/a Tall Matt), a lifelong jukebox enthusiast, is officially re-issuing M.O.P.’s “Ante Up,” Mobb Deep’s “Shook Ones,” and Ghostface Killah, Raekwon, The Force M.D.s and Cappadonna’s “Daytona 500″ to 45RPM 7” vinyl. These jukebox releases will include original labels, and B-sides, designed to fit in period machines.

These records will be available exclusively via Get On Down’s website.

Previously, various Rap singles were issued on 45 in the 1980s, including hits by Biz Markie, Slick Rick, and De La Soul. In the 2000s, Peanut Butter Wolf and Stones Throw Records also released a series, “Fanclub 45’s,” putting exclusive songs by Madlib, J Dilla, Percee P, and others on limited edition 7″.

What’s the one Rap single you’d like to hear out via jukebox 45?

Related: Did Hollywood Forget N.W.A. Had 5 Members? Here’s Some Love for MC Ren & DJ Yella.