Charlotte is the home of one of the legends of hip-hop and he is looking to build on an already strong music scene in the area. Parrish Smith, of the famous duo “EPMD", has started a new label, Boondox Records, which will be based out of Charlotte and hopefully help launch the careers of some of the undiscovered musicians in the area. EPMD, which stood for Erick and Parrish Making Dollars, was comprised of Smith and Erick Sermon. The group released their first album, “Strictly Business", in 1988 to rave reviews. After doing their first two albums under a small, independent record label, EPMD was brought onboard at Def Jam records, who at the time was leading the hip-hop movement. Touring with artists like Run-DMC, Public Enemy, and DJ Jazzy Jeff they took the hip-hop scene by storm. They became part of a group of artists including Redman and Das Efx that was known at the “Hit Squad" and were among the top artists of the time. Among some tension, EPMD split in 1993. Both artists released multiple solo projects before reuniting in 1997. In 1999 the group released their final album together, “Out of Business". Both men have continued to have successful solo careers and have recently reunited on stage several times for large hip-hop concerts and festivals. EPMD is remembered for hit songs like “It’s My Thing", “GoldDigger", “Crossover", and “You Gots to Chill". They are also known for being one of the most sampled groups in the history of rap; meaning that artists after them have used clips from EPMD songs to create their own hits. Jay-Z, DMX, Wu-Tang Clan, and Nas are among the artists who have used samples of EPMD songs in their work.
With all of his experience from the EPMD days under his belt and his ability to still write and perform great music, Smith has decided to go out on his own with Boondox Records. This independent label will release its first albums later this year; not only of Smith, but also of new artists he has discovered and signed in the Charlotte area. Recent live performances by Smith at local venues including Tempo and the Spot have helped raise awareness that Smith is here and means business. Look for the Charlotte music scene to prosper with the presence and guidance of Smith, and expect to hear some great music coming from his new label in the very near future.
Article and picture courtesy of ELEVATE Magazine
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