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D.J. CUT-UP'S & LIVE PERFORMANCES BY CHARLIE CHASE
Total Mixes: 9, Duration: 01:39:46


A summarised biography of Charlie Chase created using Google Gemini in December 2025 can be found at the bottom of this page

Click on the 'Release Title' to view the full details of each release


Release Category Release Title Label Catalogue # Year Mixer(s) Mix Title Length
D.J. Cut-Up - LegalAll The Way Live In '82Tuff CityTUFLP06081994Charlie Chase & Tony Tone with The Cold Crush BrothersLIVE IN CONNECTICUT00:14:42
D.J. Cut-Up - LegalAll The Way Live In '82Tuff CityTUFLP06081994Charlie Chase & Tony Tone with The Cold Crush BrothersIT'S LIKE THAT Y'ALL00:03:25
D.J. Cut-Up - LegalAll The Way Live In '82Tuff CityTUFLP06081994Charlie Chase & Tony Tone with The Cold Crush BrothersIT'S US The Cold Crush00:03:26
D.J. Cut-Up - LegalAll The Way Live In '82Tuff CityTUFLP06081994Charlie Chase & Tony Tone with The Cold Crush BrothersFREESTYLIN'00:06:25
D.J. Cut-Up - LegalHip Hop/Funk/Dance Classics Volume 1Music Of LifeSPOCK31991Charlie Chase & Tony Tone with The Cold Crush BrothersTHE BATTLE AT HARLEM WORLD 1981 Part 100:22:56
D.J. Cut-Up - LegalHip Hop/Funk/Dance Classics Volume 3Music Of LifeMOLLP0301993Charlie Chase & Tony Tone with The Cold Crush BrothersHIP HOP THROWDOWN Part 600:10:23
D.J. Cut-Up - LegalLive M.C. Battle From Harlem World 1981Slammin'7125711998Charlie Chase & Tony Tone with The Cold Crush BrothersTHE BATTLE AT HARLEM WORLD 198100:28:54
D.J. Cut-Up - LegalSmokin' BeatsSmokin'TAILP44411986Charlie Chase (as D.J. for The Cold Crush Brothers)WE'RE GONNA NEED A LITTLE SCRATCH00:04:48
D.J. Cut-Up - LegalWild Style SoundtrackAnimalCHR14531983Charlie Chase & Tony Tone with The Cold Crush BrothersAT THE DIXIE00:04:47


Charlie Chase is a seminal figure in hip-hop history, widely recognized as the first prominent Latino DJ in the genre. As a founding member of the legendary Cold Crush Brothers, he played a pivotal role in bridging cultural gaps and refining the technical artistry of the DJ.

Early Life and Cultural Impact

Born Carlos Mandes in Manhattan and raised in the Bronx, Charlie Chase broke significant ground as a Puerto Rican artist in a scene that was predominantly African American during the 1970s. His presence was a testament to the multicultural roots of hip-hop, proving that the "four elements" (DJing, MCing, Breaking, and Graffiti) transcended ethnic boundaries.

The Cold Crush Brothers Era

In 1978, Chase co-founded the Cold Crush Brothers alongside DJ Tony Tone. While many early groups focused solely on the music, Charlie Chase helped pioneer the "performance" aspect of hip-hop.

Harmonizing with MCs: Unlike DJs who simply played records, Chase worked meticulously with MCs (like Grandmaster Caz) to synchronize beats with elaborate routines and vocal harmonies.

The "Wild Style" Connection: Chase and the Cold Crush Brothers were featured prominently in the 1983 cult classic film Wild Style, which introduced hip-hop culture to a global audience.

Technical Innovation & Style

Charlie Chase was known for his "battle-ready" style and his ability to blend genres that others weren't touching at the time.

Genre-Blending: He famously incorporated salsa, rock, and disco breaks into his sets, expanding the sonic palette of the Bronx block parties.

Turntablism: He was an early master of "punch-phasing" and quick-cutting, ensuring the energy of the room never dropped during transition.

"I didn't want to be known as a 'Latino DJ.' I wanted to be known as a great DJ who happened to be Latino." - Charlie Chase

Legacy and Recognition

Inductee: He has been recognized by the Technics DJ Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (as part of the hip-hop pioneers exhibit).

Trailblazer: He paved the way for future Latino hip-hop icons like DJ Enuff, The Beatnuts, and Big Pun.

Broadcasting: Post-performance career, he became a successful radio personality, continuing to champion the "Old School" sound.