This page introduces "The Paradise Collection" One of the largest and most interesting collections of Hip-hop memorabilia consisting of Photos, Old School Flyers, Artwork, Paintings, Books, Magazines and more!
These items were archived and presevered by Paradise Gray a Hip-hop Pioneer and Historian who lived in the South Bronx during the creation of Hip-hop and went on to manage one of Hip-hops most important clubs " The Latin Quarter " during the "Golden Era Of Hip-hop.
The Latin Quarter aka "The L.Q." was the incubator of "The Golden Era" Of Hip-hop where Over 80% of the legendary artists honed their skills and made their connections. Some of those artists include: Eric B & Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, Boogie Down Prod. / KRS 1, Salt & Pepa, Biz Markie, De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest, Queen Latifah, Kid & Play, Chris Rock, Nice & Smooth, Ultra Magnetic, EPMD, X-Clan, Public Enemy, 3rd Bass and many others..
In 1987 Paradise and Lumumba Carson formed The BlackWatch Movement that spawned the messenger groups: The X-Clan , ISIS , Queen Mother Rage, Unique & Dashan, YZ and Professor X himself as an artist. The BlackWatch Movement was critical to the grassroots consciousness of New York City's youth and was instrumental in changing the face of Hip-hop to one of Black Pride in the late 80's - early 90's.
The UndaGround Lounge 607 East Ohio St. on the North Side of Pittsburgh is the oficial home to the collection. Come by and see one of a kind original Hip-hop items and photographs. I have thousands of photos and lots of posters on display and most of them have unique stories to them.
If you want to know about Hip-hop culture, "The Paradise Collection" is a unique New York experience that you can only get, as told by Pittsburgh's resident Hip-hop Guru "
Paradise Gray ".
Paradise Gray is available for speaking engagements at cultural functions, festivals, schools, youth programs etc. and there are some items in The Paradise Collection that can travel with me for display and for sale.
