Back to Basics

Queens native Havoc, known for gritty '90s hardcore rap, co-founded Mobb Deep with Prodigy, creating iconic beats on The Infamous. He produced for Nas and Biggie, released solo albums like The Kush, and collaborated with the Alchemist. Contributions include Kanye West's The Life of Pablo.

Bronx-born Pete Rock, a pioneer of boom bap hip-hop, rose with C.L. Smooth in the '90s; known for soulful beats, Grammy nods, and collaborations with Common, Smoke DZA, & more.

Mobb Deep, the influential East Coast rap duo from Queens, revolutionized hardcore rap with albums like "The Infamous" and hits such as "Shook Ones, Pt. 2." Prodigy and Havoc set a gritty tone, collaborating with Nas and Raekwon. Their pioneering style inspired acts like G-Unit. They achieved platinum success with "Murda Muzik" and explored new sounds with "Infamy." Despite label challenges, G-Unit's signing revitalized them. Prodigy passed in 2017, leaving a profound legacy.

Slum Village, from Detroit's Conant Gardens, is known for their influential hip-hop style, founded by T3, Baatin, and J Dilla. Hits include "Tainted" and "Selfish." Young RJ joined in 2009.