RIP Mr. Magic

R.I.P. MR. MAGIC
Daaammmm what can i say a black month in hip hop.
The New York DJ known as Mr. Magic had a fatal heart attack. John Rivas, better known as disc jockey Mr. Magic, helped to bring hip-hop into the mainstream. He debuted in 1983 on WBLS-FM in New York City with the first exclusive rap radio show to be aired on a major station.

Mr. Magic billed himself as 'Rap Attack' Magic's show featured Marley Marl as the DJ and Tyrone "Fly Ty" Williams as the show's co-producer. Magic's reign on the New york City airwaves lasted six years and was instrumental in broadening the scope and validity of hip-hop music.

Mr. Magic was referenced in songs by many rappers. In 1982, Whodini paid respect to the DJ in their song Magic's Wand saying "the moment he went on the air ... it was plain to see a new phase was here".

In 1994 Mr. Magic was referenced on Notorious B.I.G.'s track Juicy as being one of his early influences: "Every Saturday - Rap Attack - Mr. Magic Marley Marl".

Mr. Magic was known for his direct and often sarcastic personality on air and many artists would ask for his approval when it came to releasing a new record. It is unknown how old he was when he lost his life to a heart attack this morning.