Afrika Bambaataa & the Soul Sonic Force was a pioneering hip-hop group from the Bronx, New York, active in the 1980s. Led by DJ and producer Afrika Bambaataa, known as one of the godfathers of hip-hop, the group made a significant impact on the genre with their fusion of electronic music and funk. Their 1982 release "Planet Rock" is considered a seminal work in the electro funk style, influencing countless artists in the hip-hop and electronic genres. Bambaataa's innovative use of synthesizers and drum machines, as well as samples from various musical styles, set a new standard in music production.