MC Hammer: podcast appearances and interviews

Stanley Kirk Burrell, known by his stage name MC Hammer, is an American rapper and dancer born on March 30, 1962. He gained fame for hit songs such as U Can't Touch This, Pray, 2 Legit 2 Quit, and Pumps and a Bump. Renowned for his flashy dance movements, extravagant choreography, and signature Hammer pants, he became a prominent media figure in the early 1990s. Hammer is also recognized as an entrepreneur and celebrity spokesperson. His career began in Oakland, California, where he was raised, after serving three years in the United States Navy. He independently released his debut album Feel My Power in 1986, followed by his second album Let's Get It Started in 1988, which achieved multi-platinum status. His third album Please Hammer Don't Hurt 'Em in 1990 became the first hip-hop album to reach diamond status, establishing him as a leading figure in pop rap, which incorporates elements of freestyle music. Despite his rapid rise, changing hip-hop trends and commercial challenges affected his subsequent albums, and he faced a highly publicized bankruptcy starting in 1996. Outside of music, Hammer starred in the 1991 Saturday morning cartoon Hammerman and became an ordained preacher in the late 1990s. He hosted a Christian ministry program, served as a dance judge on Dance Fever, and was involved in creating and producing music acts and social projects. Hammer has managed his own record label and collaborated with numerous artists across genres. Recognized as one of the best dancers of all time by BET and noted in various rankings, he continues to perform, participate in social media, and engage in community and outreach activities.