Taco Bops

Taco Bops, born and raised on the West Side of Chicago, is a pioneering figure in the development of hip hop and hip house in Chicago. Known for his distinctive name, lyrical skill, and foundational contributions to hip hop radio, Taco Bops is also recognized by his earlier alias "Taco Bop Ski." His name, an acronym for "The Admired Cool One," reflects both his charisma and presence in Chicago's music scene. Over the decades, Taco Bops has been a rapper, DJ, beatboxer, producer, radio personality, and background actor, with deep roots in the local and national hip hop community.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Taco Bops grew up in the East Garfield Park neighborhood of Chicago. His musical journey began at the age of 14 as a DJ. Inspired by artists and DJs on Chicago college radio stations such as WHPK, KKC, and WNUR, he became immersed in the hip hop culture early on. Among his early influences were DJs like P. Fresh, Jamming Jack Stalin, and T-Shot.

He initially performed with a crew called the Cold Chillin' Crew (CCC) before they rebranded as F.I.O. (Figure It Out), coined by their manager Tracy. This crew, which included notable figures like Snake Rock (later Chicago 3Es) and Chaz, would become central to Chicago's emerging hip hop scene.

Introduction to Radio and the Birth of "Rap Down"

Taco Bops was instrumental in bringing hip hop to commercial radio in Chicago. In 1988, while still in high school, he became affiliated with \[\[WGCI-FM]] through the Junior Achievement program, inspired by daily calls to radio personalities Doug Banks and Ramonski Luv. His persistence and passion led to a role producing for the newly created Rap Down show on WGCI, where he provided music crates and interview prep.

He played a key behind-the-scenes role, including selecting the playlist and educating hosts on hip hop acts. Despite his integral involvement, internal station politics eventually led to his departure from the show. However, his contributions marked the first time hip hop was aired regularly on Chicago's commercial radio.

"Free James Brown" and the Hip House Movement

In 1989, Taco Bops became part of the \[\[Hip house]] movement with the release of "Free James Brown," produced by Farley "Jackmaster" Funk and released on London/FFRR Records, later licensed by Select Records. The single is widely regarded as the first Chicago rap video to receive airplay on national TV channels such as \[\[MTV]] and \[\[BET]].

Though he began as a beatboxer and DJ, he stepped up to rap on the track after his crew declined participation. His verse was the first he ever wrote, and the success of the song helped propel hip house into broader recognition, cementing his place in the genre's foundation.

Acting and Later Career

Outside of music, Taco Bops has also worked as a background actor, appearing in projects like My Best Friend's Wedding, Empire, Chicago Fire, Spike Lee's Chi-Raq, and Barbershop. He often balanced his artistic pursuits with DJ gigs and music production.

He later worked behind the scenes in the music industry, including promotional and marketing roles for artists like \[\[Common (rapper)|Common]] (formerly Common Sense), \[\[Twista]], and \[\[Infamous Syndicate]]. Taco Bops also served as a Midwest street rep for multiple labels, including \[\[Relativity Records]], contributing to the rise of many prominent Chicago artists.

Health Challenges and Recovery

In November 2019, Taco Bops suffered a stroke that left the right side of his body paralyzed and temporarily impacted his speech. His son discovered him days after the incident, and he was hospitalized and began a long process of recovery. Through therapy at Schwab Rehabilitation Hospital and his own determination, he taught himself how to walk and talk again.

His recovery story, shared during his appearance on the \[\[RYC Live]] show, serves as a powerful testimony to resilience, faith, and the importance of managing stress. Taco emphasized that despite overwhelming personal losses and health challenges, including partial blindness, he remains committed to his craft and community.

RYC Live Appearance and Current Projects

Taco Bops appeared on the RYC Live Show on January 30, 2020, where he recounted his life story, shared his views on the music industry, and premiered new music. He discussed his continued collaboration with Chicago 3Es, notably the track "The Other Side" produced by Riot One.

During the interview, he reflected on industry exploitation of young artists, his radio legacy, and his enduring connection to Chicago’s hip hop roots. The show served not only as a musical celebration but also as a platform to advocate for artist rights and mental health awareness.

Legacy and Influence

Taco Bops is widely regarded as a foundational figure in the Chicago hip hop and hip house movements. His role in introducing hip hop to commercial radio, pioneering the hip house sound, and mentoring younger artists has left a lasting imprint on the city's musical identity.

He is celebrated not just for his artistry but also for his advocacy, authenticity, and resilience. Through his group affiliations (CCC, F.I.O., Chicago 3Es), his work in radio, and his industry involvement, Taco Bops has played a critical role in shaping the sound and spirit of Chicago hip hop.

Selected Discography

"Free James Brown" (1989) – with Hip House Syndicate, produced by Farley Jackmaster Funk
"The Other Side" (2020) – with Chicago 3Es, produced by Riot One

References

RYC Live Show interview with Taco Bops, January 30, 2020
Discogs entry for "Free James Brown"
WGCI-FM archives