“Nasty” Nes Rodriguez
The Godfather of Seattle Hip-Hop
When it comes to the roots of hip-hop in the Pacific Northwest, one name echoes louder than most: “Nasty” Nes Rodriguez. A DJ, radio personality, music executive, and cultural bridge builder, Nes played a central role in nurturing Seattle’s hip-hop identity before it was even recognized as a movement. With a career spanning decades, his impact has resonated far beyond the turntables, helping shape the voices and venues that brought the city’s urban soundscape to life.
April 27, 1961 – February 15, 2025
A Voice That Changed the Airwaves
Nes Rodriguez made his mark as one of the earliest radio DJs to support hip-hop on the West Coast. In 1980, while still a student at the University of Washington, he launched Seattle’s first all-rap radio show on KFOX and later KCMU, at a time when hip-hop was still considered a fringe genre. As the host of “Fresh Tracks,” Nes introduced Seattle to a world of breakbeats, lyricism, and East Coast influences that were otherwise unheard on the local airwaves.
As his influence grew, Nes helped introduce artists like Sir Mix-A-Lot to larger audiences, supporting local talent before they hit the national stage. His taste-making skills and tireless advocacy gave Seattle hip-hop a platform, credibility, and momentum during its foundational years.
Mentor, Connector, Cultural Translator
Nasty Nes worked behind the scenes as a manager and promoter, notably co-founding the label Nastymix Records with Sir Mix-A-Lot and Ed Locke in 1985. Nastymix was the first successful West Coast hip-hop label based outside of California, and it played a pivotal role in breaking regional boundaries.
Through Nastymix, Nes helped build an infrastructure for hip-hop in the Northwest that extended beyond radio. He mentored younger artists, coordinated with record stores and promoters, and even facilitated press opportunities that gave Seattle’s underground artists national visibility.
Shaping Seattle’s Nightclub DJ Scene
Nasty Nes was also influential in shaping the city’s nightlife. He worked with many of Seattle’s top DJs and club promoters, acting as a connector between radio, clubs, and record labels. Throughout the late ’80s and early ’90s, he was instrumental in promoting DJ showcases and hosting events.
Whether it was bringing new vinyl to the decks or linking DJs with promotional support, Nes helped elevate the role of the nightclub DJ from background music provider to cultural tastemaker. Venues like The Underground, DV8, and The Brass Connection saw an influx of hip-hop-driven crowds in part because of Nes’s efforts to spotlight DJ talent and bring in fresh sounds from both coasts.
Legacy and Lasting Influence
Today, Nasty Nes remains a respected figure in the national hip-hop community. His contributions have been recognized by DJs, radio hosts, and artists across the country. He continues to support indie acts through his online platforms and promotional networks, never straying far from his roots.
In a city better known for grunge and alternative rock, Nasty Nes Rodriguez carved out a space for hip-hop to breathe and grow. Seattle’s urban music scene would not be what it is today without his early efforts. As both a pioneer and a preservationist, Nes reminds us that behind every movement is someone who believed in it before the world caught up.
