Lately, everyone thinks they can be a disc jockey. From celebrities, such as Paris Hilton, Kanye West, and Lil Wayne, to anyone with a couple hundred songs on their iTunes and the latest demo of Virtual DJ. It’s one of those “cool” occupations people fantasize about. But remember, it takes a certain level of talent, determination, and musical intelligence to become a great DJ. Even with all that you would probably still be a step behind Grand Master Roc Raida.

Roc Raida, a New York City native, was a part of the DJ crew The X-Ecutioners (Originally known as The X-Men). Similar to something you would expect to see from a WWE wrestler, Roc Raida had a trademark move when in a DJ battle of crossing his arms to form the letter X as a representation of his crew. He was best known for these types of outrageous and comical stage antics. Roc Raida would eventually go on to win the 1995 DMC World DJ Championship. This propelled his stardom which allowed him to produce songs for artist such as Big Pun, Busta Rhymes, and The Jungle Brothers.

Due to a car accident Roc Raida experienced a cardiac arrest and passed away on September 19, 2009. Below is a video tribute that includes interviews about his personality and DJ skill, old footage of Roc Raida’s performances, other DJ’s paying homage through mixing and concludes with his daughter touching the wheels of steel to honor her father. Respect the DJ!

The post Respect Your Elders: DJ Roc Raida appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.