Grandmaster Flash was arguably the biggest pioneer, developing techniques that allowed for the creation of new music such as backspin (beat juggling), punch phrasing, scratching, and needle dropping. Previously, hip hop was a style that was only performed live at parties, however, in 1979 Sugarhill Gang released what is commonly regarded as the first hip hop record, Rapper’s Delight. It was immediately popular and propelled hip hop into the mainstream. By the early 80s, hip hop was reaching clubs in cities all around the US and new styles were beginning to be developed. Old school hip hop is characterised by the now commonplace hip hop sounds of DJ techniques and breakbeats. The rapping style is relatively simple, relying on basic rhythms at a moderate tempo, and usually covers themes of partying.