Hip-hop music took center stage at Hempstead High School to mark its 50th anniversary.

Close to 100 fans packed the school's auditorium to enjoy performances from legendary artists like the Sugarhill Gang, Melle Mel and Roxanne Shante, just to name a few.

Organizers say Hempstead and other parts of Long Island helped pave the way for several rap artists back in the 80's and 90's.

Rapper A+, who is from Hempstead, and performed at Friday's concert says, "It means a lot for me because I went to Hempstead High School, and I named my song after the high school."

This is the first time the Village of Hempstead hosted a free concert to mark the 50th anniversary of hip-hop.