Super Rock Body Shock
Super Rock Body Shock is a 1982 hip-hop single by the act Eye Beta Rock featuring Dr. Groove. Originally released by H.E.R.O. Records, the track is notable as an early example of Midwest hip-hop and has been cited as one of the first rap records pressed by a Chicago-based artist.[1]
Background and release
The original single was released on 12-inch vinyl in 1982 and is stylistically aligned with early electro-funk and disco-infused rap. Very little is publicly known about the identities of Eye Beta Rock or Dr. Groove, and the release remains obscure aside from its importance to regional collectors and hip-hop historians.[2]
In 2008, Dutch label 4 Lux Recordings reissued the single as a limited-edition 12″ pressing, catalog number 4LUX 028, helping to revive interest in the track among modern vinyl collectors and DJs.[3]
Musical style
Super Rock Body Shock is built on a disco-era groove with funk basslines, analog synths, and a rhythmic vocal performance that reflects early hip-hop’s roots in party culture. The song features crowd-engagement chants and minimalistic rap verses layered over boogie-style instrumentation. While it did not chart, its production style aligns it with the likes of Rapper’s Delight and Jam On It.
Legacy
Though the record did not gain widespread attention at the time, it is often referenced as a pioneering hip-hop release from Chicago. A user on Discogs describes it as "the first rap record recorded by a Chicagoan that was put on vinyl."[4] Its place in the broader timeline of hip-hop is underscored by its presence in collector communities and reissue markets.
The track was also included in the 2004 compilation album Original Style, a collection of rare and foundational rap recordings.[5]
Track listing
Typical 12″ releases of the single include:
- Side A: Super Rock Body Shock (vocal mix)
- Side B: Instrumental or alternate mix (varies by pressing)
References
- ↑ Discogs – Eye Beta Rock Featuring Dr. Groove – Super Rock Body Shock (1982). https://www.discogs.com/release/370063-Eye-Beta-Rock-Featuring-Dr-Groove-Super-Rock-Body-Shock
- ↑ Discogs – Artist page for Eye Beta Rock. https://www.discogs.com/artist/206688-Eye-Beta-Rock
- ↑ Discogs Marketplace listing for reissue. https://www.discogs.com/sell/item/2299096951
- ↑ Discogs user comment – Super Rock Body Shock. https://www.discogs.com/release/1328034-Eye-Beta-Rock-Super-Rock-Body-Shock
- ↑ Discogs – Various – Original Style (2004). https://www.discogs.com/release/313803-Various-Original-Style