Grandmaster Flash was one of hip-hop's pioneering DJs and his style—a combination of inventive scratch theatrics and tastemaker beat selection—made him a legend. With the addition of five charismatic MCs—Melle Mel, Cowboy, Kidd Creole, Scorpio and Raheim—the crew began to gain popularity in 1979. By '83, after releasing two of classic hip-hop's most popular tracks, they were ingrained in pop culture. While introducing hip-hop to a broader audience they also popularized turntablism and electro music. In '07, they were the first hip-hop/rap group inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.