If hip hop had a baby picture as a newborn, this is how it would look like.  Care of DJ Kool Herc, the originator and father of this revolutionary musical contagion, this party in the “Rec Room” at 1520 Sedgwick Ave. in the Bronx is widely recognized as the pivotal function of functions that spurred on a culture that we recognize today as hip hop.  Yesterday, August 11th, 2013, marked the 40th anniversary of hip hop and we at The 5th Element Magazine are truly grateful for what DJ Kool Herc, along with a host of other trailblazers and pioneers, offered to this world.  What started as a neighborhood party rockin’ affair transpired into a lifestyle, something more than just the music itself.  So if you happen to be reppin’ any of the four pillars of hip hop – emceeing, graffiti writing, breakdancing, or DJ’ing – or are simply a fan of any or all of them, please take the time to reflect on how all of the early contributions of hip hop’s forefathers have come so far as to influence what you live, rep, and enjoy today.  Cheers to 40 years, hip hop.  Here’s to 40 more.