Stanley Burrell, known professionally as M.C. Hammer, is an American rapper, dancer and entrepreneur. Widely considered the first “mainstream” rapper, he has sold more than 50 million records worldwide. Hammer had his greatest commercial success and popularity from the late 1980s until the late 1990s. Remembered for his rapid rise to fame, Hammer is known for hit records (such as “U Can’t Touch This” and “2 Legit 2 Quit“), flashy dance movements, choreography and parachute-like Hammer pants. Hammer’s superstar-status and entertaining showmanship made him a household name and hip-hop icon. In 1995, Hammer signed with Suge Knight’s Death Row Records, but filed for bankruptcy one year later due to dwindling album sales and a lavish lifestyle. In 1997, Hammer became an ordained minister and hosted a Christian ministry program called M.C. Hammer and Friends. He was born on March 30, 1962.
