Gabriel Jackson, born May 27, 1963, in Harlem, New York City, is an American rapper who emerged as one of the earliest figures in rap music. After losing his mother at twelve, he was raised by his uncle, record producer Bobby Robinson, in whose apartment he began practicing rapping in Robinson’s apartment. His first recording, "Spoonin' Rap", appeared in 1979 on Sound of New York, marking his entry into the music scene and introducing themes that would later influence gangsta rap. Jackson then recorded "Love Rap" for Enjoy! Records, a B‑side to The Treacherous Three’s "New Rap Language", establishing his early nickname “The Love Rapper” and solidifying his role within the group. Jackson later signed with Sugar Hill Records, releasing "Spoonie is Back" and the collaboration "Monster Jam" with The Sequence. He moved to Tuff City in 1985, issuing singles such as "That's My Style" (1986) and "I'm All Shook Up" (1987). His debut album, The Godfather of Rap (1987), produced by Marley Marl and Teddy Riley, consolidated his reputation. Subsequent compilations, including Old and New Jams (1989) and Godfather of Hip Hop (1996), kept his legacy alive. In 2008, "Love Rap" was ranked number 65 on VH1’s 100 Greatest Songs of Hip Hop, underscoring his influence on the genre.
