Melle Mel & Duke Bootee were prominent figures in the early development of hip hop music. Melvin Glover, known as Melle Mel, was a lead vocalist of the influential group Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five. Ed Fletcher, known as Duke Bootee, was a songwriter and producer who also collaborated with the group, notably co-writing the groundbreaking song "The Message". Their music, characterized by socially conscious lyrics and innovative use of turntablism, played a significant role in establishing rap as a potent form of social commentary.