EPMD: Where Are They Now?

EPMD, the legendary hip hop duo consisting of Erick Sermon and Parrish Smith, burst onto the scene in the late 1980s and quickly became one of the most influential acts in the genre. Their innovative sound, clever wordplay, and unwavering dedication to quality made them a force to be reckoned with. But what became of EPMD after their initial rise to fame? Let's embark on a journey through time to discover where the iconic duo stands today.

The Early Years: A Legacy Begins

EPMD's story begins in the vibrant streets of Brentwood, Long Island, New York. Erick Sermon, known for his smooth flow and witty punchlines, and Parrish Smith, renowned for his sharp lyrics and commanding stage presence, joined forces in 1987. Their chemistry was undeniable, and they quickly gained a following in the local hip hop scene.

With the release of their debut album, Strictly Business, in 1989, EPMD cemented their status as rap pioneers. The album's raw energy, social commentary, and innovative production set a new standard in hip hop. Tracks like "You Gots to Chill," "I'm Housin'," and "Strictly Business" became instant classics, capturing the attention of fans and critics alike.

The Golden Age: Commercial Success and Critical Acclaim

EPMD's sophomore album, Business Never Personal, arrived in 1990 and further solidified their position at the forefront of hip hop. Singles like "So Whatcha Sayin'" and "Gold Digger" became radio hits, propelling the album to platinum status.

Their third album, Unfinished Business, released in 1991, was another critical and commercial success. With tracks like "The Big Payback," "Crossover," and "Give the People," EPMD demonstrated their versatility and ability to push boundaries.

The Transition: Evolving Sound and Solo Pursuits

As the hip hop landscape evolved in the early 1990s, EPMD faced challenges in maintaining their commercial success. Their fourth album, Strictly Business, released in 1992, failed to meet the expectations set by their previous efforts.

In 1993, EPMD decided to pursue solo careers. Sermon released his debut solo album, No Pressure, while Smith dropped his own album, Beware of the Fury. Both albums were met with moderate success, but they failed to match the impact of their collaborative work.

The Reunion: A Revival of a Legendary Duo

After several years apart, EPMD reunited in 1997 with the release of their fifth album, Back in Business. The album showcased a renewed energy and a return to their classic sound. Tracks like "Jane" and "Da Joint" rekindled the flame for their loyal fan base.

They continued to release albums throughout the 2000s, including We Mean Business (2004) and The Big Payback (2008). While these albums didn't garner the same level of commercial success as their earlier work, they demonstrated EPMD's enduring passion for hip hop and their commitment to staying true to their roots.

The Legacy: Pioneers and Innovators

Today, EPMD stands as one of the most influential hip hop duos of all time. Their unique brand of socially conscious lyrics, innovative production, and undeniable chemistry has left an indelible mark on the genre. Erick Sermon and Parrish Smith continue to be respected figures in hip hop, revered for their contributions to the culture and their unwavering dedication to excellence.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are EPMD's most popular songs?

   • "You Gots to Chill," "I'm Housin'," "Strictly Business," "So Whatcha Sayin'," "Gold Digger," "The Big Payback," "Crossover," "Give the People," "Jane," and "Da Joint" are some of EPMD's most popular songs.

2. How many albums has EPMD released?

   • EPMD has released nine studio albums: Strictly Business (1989), Business Never Personal (1990), Unfinished Business (1991), Strictly Business (1992), Back in Business (1997), Out of Business (2000), We Mean Business (2004), The Big Payback (2008), and Loud Records Special Edition (2012).

3. What is EPMD's current status?

   • Erick Sermon and Parrish Smith continue to perform together as EPMD and occasionally release new music. They have also pursued successful solo careers.

4. Who are some of EPMD's collaborators?

   • EPMD has collaborated with several artists throughout their career, including LL Cool J, Redman, K-Solo, Keith Murray, and Das EFX.

5. What is EPMD's musical style?

   • EPMD's musical style is characterized by its raw energy, social commentary, innovative production, and clever wordplay. They are known for their boom-bap sound and their ability to fuse elements of funk, soul, and jazz into their music.