Diamond D
Encyclopedia
Diamond D is a hip hop producer
and MC
from the Bronx
, New York City
, and one of the founding members of the legendary D.I.T.C. crew. He started out as a DJ for Jazzy Jay
back in the late 1980s and was at the same time perfecting his skills in beat making and turntablism, and together with rhyme partner Master Rob, he was one half of the group Ultimate Force. The group signed with Jazzy Jay
's Strong City Records, and Diamond and Rob started recording their debut album, I'm Not Playin'
, in 1988 and released the 12-inch single with the same title, which spawned a buzz in the underground. The album was completed in 1990, but it got caught up in label politics, such as the shutdown of Strong City distributor Uni Records
, and was shelved until 2007 when it was released through Traffic Entertainment. One of the last songs recorded for the album was a Diamond D solo song in which he actually picked up the mike for the first time. The song was called "The Best-Kept Secret." As Ultimate Force dissolved, record executives got their eyes on the Bronx phenomenon, which eventually resulted in the release of Diamond's debut album, Stunts, Blunts and Hip Hop
(released under the moniker Diamond & the Psychotic Neurotics), in 1992. The album is considered to be one of the finest D.I.T.C. solo LPs and features early appearances from Big L
and Fat Joe
, the latter of whose 1993 debut album, Represent, was mainly produced by Diamond D.
From then, he went on to produce for multiple hip hop and R&B artists listed below in the discography.
In 1996, Diamond D appeared on the Red Hot Organization
's compilation CD America is Dying Slowly
alongside Biz Markie
, Wu-Tang Clan
, and Fat Joe
, among many other prominent hip hop artists. The CD, meant to raise awareness of the AIDS epidemic among African American men, was heralded as a masterpiece by The Source
magazine.
Diamond's second album, Hatred, Passions and Infidelity
, was released in 1997 to mixed but mostly positive reviews. Following the release, Diamond established his name as a sought-after producer after providing impressive beats for hip hop legends such as Busta Rhymes
, Fugees, KRS-One
, Queen Latifah
, the Pharcyde
, and Brand Nubian
, among others. He is regarded as one of the first hip hop producers to work with artists on both the east and west coasts. Since then, he released the independent street album Grown-Man Talk
, the official mixtape compilation The Diamond Mine
, and provided contributions to his D.I.T.C. cohorts' projects including the crew's self-titled 2000 debut album on Tommy Boy/Warner Bros. Records.
In 2008 Diamond signed with Babygrande Records
. His fourth album, titled The Huge Hefner Chronicles
, was released in October 2008, and unlike previous efforts, the LP showed Diamond focus more on his rhymes, as production was handled by other respected underground beat makers such as Nottz
, DJ Scratch
, Ill Mind, Def Jef
, and Jesse West
.
Hip hop production
Hip hop production is the creation of hip hop music. Though the term encompasses all aspects of hip hop music, it's most commonly used to refer to the instrumental, non-lyrical aspects of hip hop. This means that hip hop producers are the instrumentalists involved in a work...
and MC
Rapping
Rapping refers to "spoken or chanted rhyming lyrics". The art form can be broken down into different components, as in the book How to Rap where it is separated into “content”, “flow” , and “delivery”...
from the Bronx
The Bronx
The Bronx is the northernmost of the five boroughs of New York City. It is also known as Bronx County, the last of the 62 counties of New York State to be incorporated...
, New York City
New York City
New York is the most populous city in the United States and the center of the New York Metropolitan Area, one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the world. New York exerts a significant impact upon global commerce, finance, media, art, fashion, research, technology, education, and...
, and one of the founding members of the legendary D.I.T.C. crew. He started out as a DJ for Jazzy Jay
Jazzy Jay
Jazzy Jay born in Beaufort, South Carolina, United States, November 18, 1961), also known as The Original Jazzy Jay or DJ Jazzy Jay, is a pioneering American hip hop DJ and producer. He has collected roughly 400,000 records.-Background:...
back in the late 1980s and was at the same time perfecting his skills in beat making and turntablism, and together with rhyme partner Master Rob, he was one half of the group Ultimate Force. The group signed with Jazzy Jay
Jazzy Jay
Jazzy Jay born in Beaufort, South Carolina, United States, November 18, 1961), also known as The Original Jazzy Jay or DJ Jazzy Jay, is a pioneering American hip hop DJ and producer. He has collected roughly 400,000 records.-Background:...
's Strong City Records, and Diamond and Rob started recording their debut album, I'm Not Playin'
I'm Not Playin'
I'm Not Playin' is the first and only album recorded by the hip-hop duo Ultimate Force, which consisted of emcee Master Rob and DJ-producer Diamond D. The group was discovered and sponsored by Jazzy Jay in the late 1980s, and the album was recorded in his studio in the Bronx, New York, between 1988...
, in 1988 and released the 12-inch single with the same title, which spawned a buzz in the underground. The album was completed in 1990, but it got caught up in label politics, such as the shutdown of Strong City distributor Uni Records
Uni Records
Uni Records was a record label owned by MCA Inc. The brand, which long featured a distinct UNi logo, was established in 1966 by MCA executive Ned Tanen and developed by music industry veteran Russ Regan...
, and was shelved until 2007 when it was released through Traffic Entertainment. One of the last songs recorded for the album was a Diamond D solo song in which he actually picked up the mike for the first time. The song was called "The Best-Kept Secret." As Ultimate Force dissolved, record executives got their eyes on the Bronx phenomenon, which eventually resulted in the release of Diamond's debut album, Stunts, Blunts and Hip Hop
Stunts, Blunts and Hip Hop
Stunts, Blunts and Hip Hop is the debut album from hip hop producer-emcee Diamond D, released in 1992. The album features some of the earliest appearances from Diamond's later D.I.T.C. partners Big L and Fat Joe, as well as his crew the Psychotic Neurotics...
(released under the moniker Diamond & the Psychotic Neurotics), in 1992. The album is considered to be one of the finest D.I.T.C. solo LPs and features early appearances from Big L
Big L
Big L may refer to:* Lamont Coleman , better know by Big L, American hip-hop artist.Or a number of British radio stations:*Big L 1395, a British radio station.*Radio Luxembourg's English-language progammes ....
and Fat Joe
Fat Joe
Joseph Antonio Cartagena , better known by his stage name Fat Joe, is an American rapper, CEO of Terror Squad Entertainment, and member of musical groups D.I.T.C. and Terror Squad....
, the latter of whose 1993 debut album, Represent, was mainly produced by Diamond D.
From then, he went on to produce for multiple hip hop and R&B artists listed below in the discography.
In 1996, Diamond D appeared on the Red Hot Organization
Red Hot Organization
Red Hot Organization is a not-for-profit, 501 3, international organization dedicated to fighting AIDS through pop culture.Since its inception in 1989, over 400 artists, producers and directors have contributed to over 15 compilation albums, related television programs and media events to raise...
's compilation CD America is Dying Slowly
America Is Dying Slowly
America Is Dying Slowly is a compilation album, the eighth in the Red Hot AIDS Benefit Series of recorded by the Red Hot Organization...
alongside Biz Markie
Biz Markie
Marcel Theo Hall better known by his stage name, Biz Markie, is an American rapper, beatboxer, DJ, comedian, singer, reality television personality, and commercial spokesperson. He is best known for his single "Just a Friend", an American Top 10 hit in 1989...
, Wu-Tang Clan
Wu-Tang Clan
The Wu-Tang Clan is a hip-hop group from Staten Island that consists of RZA, GZA, Method Man, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, Inspectah Deck, U-God, Masta Killa, and the late Ol' Dirty Bastard. They are frequently joined by fellow childhood friend Cappadonna, a quasi member of the group...
, and Fat Joe
Fat Joe
Joseph Antonio Cartagena , better known by his stage name Fat Joe, is an American rapper, CEO of Terror Squad Entertainment, and member of musical groups D.I.T.C. and Terror Squad....
, among many other prominent hip hop artists. The CD, meant to raise awareness of the AIDS epidemic among African American men, was heralded as a masterpiece by The Source
The Source (magazine)
The Source is a United States-based, monthly full-color magazine covering hip-hop music, politics, and culture, founded in 1988. It is the world's second longest running rap periodical, behind United Kingdom-based publication Hip Hop Connection. The Source was founded as a newsletter in 1988...
magazine.
Diamond's second album, Hatred, Passions and Infidelity
Hatred, Passions and Infidelity
Hatred, Passions and Infidelity is the second album from hip hop producer and emcee Diamond D, released five years after his acclaimed debut, Stunts, Blunts and Hip Hop...
, was released in 1997 to mixed but mostly positive reviews. Following the release, Diamond established his name as a sought-after producer after providing impressive beats for hip hop legends such as Busta Rhymes
Busta Rhymes
Trevor Tahiem Smith, Jr., better known by his stage name Busta Rhymes ,Smith is an American rapper, producer and actor. Chuck D of Public Enemy gave him the alias Busta Rhymes after NFL wide receiver George "Buster" Rhymes...
, Fugees, KRS-One
KRS-One
Lawrence Krisna Parker , better known by his stage names KRS-One , and Teacha, is an American rapper...
, Queen Latifah
Queen Latifah
Dana Elaine Owens , better known by her stage name Queen Latifah, is an American singer, rapper, and actress. Her work in music, film and television has earned her a Golden Globe award, two Screen Actors Guild Awards, two Image Awards, a Grammy Award, six additional Grammy nominations, an Emmy...
, the Pharcyde
The Pharcyde
The Pharcyde are an alternative hip hop group based in South Central Los Angeles. The original four members of the group are Imani , Slimkid3 , Bootie Brown and Fatlip . DJ Mark Luv was the group's first DJ, followed by producer J-Swift and then J Dilla...
, and Brand Nubian
Brand Nubian
Brand Nubian is an American hip hop group from New Rochelle, New York, consisting of three MC's: Grand Puba , Sadat X and Lord Jamar , and two DJs: DJ Alamo and DJ Sincere...
, among others. He is regarded as one of the first hip hop producers to work with artists on both the east and west coasts. Since then, he released the independent street album Grown-Man Talk
Grown Man Talk
Grown Man Talk is a 2003 album from Hip Hop artist Diamond D, released through Diamond's own Diamond Mine imprint. The album was not distributed nationwide, and only a limited number of copies were printed. Grown Man Talk featured production from Diamond and 88 Keys, as well as appearances from...
, the official mixtape compilation The Diamond Mine
The Diamond Mine
The Diamond Mine is a 2005 release from hip-hop artist Diamond D, released as an official mixtape. The mixtape was not carried in most retail stores, but is available for purchase online...
, and provided contributions to his D.I.T.C. cohorts' projects including the crew's self-titled 2000 debut album on Tommy Boy/Warner Bros. Records.
In 2008 Diamond signed with Babygrande Records
Babygrande Records
Babygrande Records is an independent record label based in New York City founded by Chuck Wilson. Babygrande is distributed by the The Orchard, and represented by the Creative Artists Agency in Hollywood.-Discography:...
. His fourth album, titled The Huge Hefner Chronicles
The Huge Hefner Chronicles
Huge Hefner Chronicles is the first studio album by Diamond D released through a label in over 10 years and is different from his previous works in the way that it features a wide range of different producers rather than Diamond crafting the beats himself like on previous releases...
, was released in October 2008, and unlike previous efforts, the LP showed Diamond focus more on his rhymes, as production was handled by other respected underground beat makers such as Nottz
Nottz
Dominick Lamb better known by his stage name, Nottz is a music producer, writer and rapper from Norfolk, Virginia, U.S. He sometimes extends his executive name to Nottz Raw.-History:...
, DJ Scratch
DJ Scratch
DJ Scratch is an American hip hop DJ and producer.-Career:DJ Scratch is the 1988 New Music Seminar Battle For World Supremacy DJ Champion, Grammy nominated, Multi Platinum Producer & The 2010 Master Of The Mix World Champion....
, Ill Mind, Def Jef
Def Jef
Def Jef is the stage name of Jeffrey Fortson , an American alternative hip hop musician and rapper of the late 1980s and early 1990s. He was born in Harlem, New York City, New York, USA....
, and Jesse West
Jesse West
Jesse West, aka 3rd Eye is a producer/rapper. Born Jesse Williams III on December 4, 1967 in the South Bronx, New York, Jesse grew up in the Bronx River Projects, where the Master/Teacher DJ Afrika Bambaataa founded the Universal Zulu Nation.- History :...
.
Albums
| Album information |
|---|
| Stunts, Blunts and Hip Hop Stunts, Blunts and Hip Hop Stunts, Blunts and Hip Hop is the debut album from hip hop producer-emcee Diamond D, released in 1992. The album features some of the earliest appearances from Diamond's later D.I.T.C. partners Big L and Fat Joe, as well as his crew the Psychotic Neurotics...
|
| Hatred, Passions and Infidelity Hatred, Passions and Infidelity Hatred, Passions and Infidelity is the second album from hip hop producer and emcee Diamond D, released five years after his acclaimed debut, Stunts, Blunts and Hip Hop... |
| Grown Man Talk Grown Man Talk Grown Man Talk is a 2003 album from Hip Hop artist Diamond D, released through Diamond's own Diamond Mine imprint. The album was not distributed nationwide, and only a limited number of copies were printed. Grown Man Talk featured production from Diamond and 88 Keys, as well as appearances from... |
| The Diamond Mine The Diamond Mine The Diamond Mine is a 2005 release from hip-hop artist Diamond D, released as an official mixtape. The mixtape was not carried in most retail stores, but is available for purchase online... |
| I'm Not Playin' I'm Not Playin' I'm Not Playin' is the first and only album recorded by the hip-hop duo Ultimate Force, which consisted of emcee Master Rob and DJ-producer Diamond D. The group was discovered and sponsored by Jazzy Jay in the late 1980s, and the album was recorded in his studio in the Bronx, New York, between 1988... (as part of Ultimate Force) |
| The Huge Hefner Chronicles The Huge Hefner Chronicles Huge Hefner Chronicles is the first studio album by Diamond D released through a label in over 10 years and is different from his previous works in the way that it features a wide range of different producers rather than Diamond crafting the beats himself like on previous releases... |
Production
- 1989: Raheem - "I'm The King"
- 1990: Lord Finesse & DJ Mike SmoothLord FinesseLord Finesse is a Hip hop artist and producer, hailing from The Bronx, New York, best known as the leader of the D.I.T.C. rap crew.- Career :...
- Funky TechnicianFunky TechnicianFunky Technician is the debut album of American hip hop artists Lord Finesse and DJ Mike Smooth, released in 1990 on Wild Pitch Records. Production was handled by Smooth, former label-mate DJ Premier, and future Diggin' in the Crates Crew-members Diamond D and Showbiz. In 1998, the album was...
(LP):
"Funky Technician", "Here I Come", "Bad Mutha", "I Keep The Crowd Listening" - 1990: Ultimate Force - "I'm Not Playing" (LP)
- 1999: Showbiz & AG - "I'm Convinced", previously unreleased
- 1991: Lord FinesseLord FinesseLord Finesse is a Hip hop artist and producer, hailing from The Bronx, New York, best known as the leader of the D.I.T.C. rap crew.- Career :...
- Return of the Funky ManReturn of the Funky ManReturn of the Funky Man is the second album from hip hop producer and MC Lord Finesse. In 1991, Finesse split from his former partner DJ Mike Smooth, and his former record label, Wild Pitch Records, to release his first solo effort. Return of the Funky Man, which featured production from Finesse's...
(LP):
"Fuck ’Em", "Isn't He Something", "Praise The Lord", "That's How Smooth I Am", "Praise The Lord (Remix)" - 1992: Showbiz and A.G.Showbiz and A.G.Showbiz and A.G. are an American hip hop duo from The Bronx, New York City. Showbiz is a producer and A.G. is a rapper. The two debuted on Lord Finesse's Funky Technician album in 1990. Show and A.G...
"Hard to Kill", "Soul Clap," from Runaway SlaveRunaway SlaveRunaway Slave is the debut album from Hip Hop duo Showbiz and A.G., members of legendary New York crew D.I.T.C..-Album information:The effort was a highly praised underground release, but didn't sell strong numbers... - 1992: The Ghetto Girlz - Ain't Takin' No Shit (LP):
"Alphabetical Order", "Bitch Ass Nigger", "Marked For Death", "That's All She Wrote" - 1992: Diamond D And The Psychotic Neurotics - Stunts, Blunts and Hip HopStunts, Blunts and Hip HopStunts, Blunts and Hip Hop is the debut album from hip hop producer-emcee Diamond D, released in 1992. The album features some of the earliest appearances from Diamond's later D.I.T.C. partners Big L and Fat Joe, as well as his crew the Psychotic Neurotics...
(2xLP) - 1992: Diamond D And The Psychotic Neurotics - "Best Kept Secret (Remix by 45 King & Diamond)"
- 1992: Brand NubianBrand NubianBrand Nubian is an American hip hop group from New Rochelle, New York, consisting of three MC's: Grand Puba , Sadat X and Lord Jamar , and two DJs: DJ Alamo and DJ Sincere...
- "Punks Jump Up To Get Beat Down", "Punks Jump Up... (Remix) - 1992: Busy BeeBusy BeeBusy Bee of Norway, branded simply Busy Bee was an airline that operated in Norway between 1966 and 1992. The airline was started by Braathens S.A.F.E under the name Busy Bee Air Service. The airline flew charter and wet lease for Braathens SAFE and Scandinavian Airlines with Fokker F-27, Fokker 50...
- Thank God For Busy Bee (LP):
"Get With Me", "Home Boyz", "I Got Thingz Sewed", "My Personality" - 1992: The A.T.E.E.M. - Yeah (Diamond Mix)
- 1992: R.O.C. - Dedicated to My Girl (Diamond Mix)
- 1993: Illegal - "CrumbSnatcher" and "Illegal Will Roc" from The Untold TruthThe Untold TruthThe Untold Truth is the only album by the group Illegal, which was released on August 24, 1993, on Rowdy/Arista/BMG Records and featured production from Lord Finesse, Diamond D, Biz Markie, and Erick Sermon. The album was a minor success, peaking at #119 on the Billboard 200 and #19 on the Top...
- 1993: Red Hot Lover Tone - Give It Up (Remix)
- 1993: Cypress HillCypress HillCypress Hill is an American hip hop group from South Gate, California. Cypress Hill was the first Latino hip-hop group to have platinum and multi-platinum albums, selling over 18 million albums worldwide...
- When The Ship Goes Down (Diamond Mix)<--Unreleased & Revamped says year 1996, not 93(?) (The single was released 1993, the album was compiled in 1996) - 1993: Yaggfu Front & Diamond D - Slappin' Suckas Silly (Remix)
- 1993: Apache - "Who Freaked Who" and "Get Ya Weight Up" from Apache Ain't ShitApache Ain't ShitApache Ain't Shit is the only album released by rapper Apache. It was released in 1992 through Tommy Boy Records and featured production from DJ Mark the 45 King, Large Professor and Diamond D. The album peaked at No. 66 on the Billboard 200 and No...
- 1993: Fat JoeFat JoeJoseph Antonio Cartagena , better known by his stage name Fat Joe, is an American rapper, CEO of Terror Squad Entertainment, and member of musical groups D.I.T.C. and Terror Squad....
- Represent (LP):
"Bad Man", "Watch The Sound", "Flow Joe", "Da Fat Gangsta", "Shorty Gotta Fat Ass", "You Must Be Out of Your Mind"and "Get On Up" - 1993: Diamond D - "I'm Outta Here (Remix)"
- 1993: Illegal - "We Getz Buzy (Remix)"
- 1993: Raazda Rukkuz - "Da Chronic Asthmatics" and "Loco Impact", 12" Single
- 1993: Leaders of the New SchoolLeaders of the New SchoolLeaders of the New School was a Long Island, New York-based hip hop crew.-History:The crew was composed of Uniondale, New York, natives Charlie Brown and Dinco D ; North Amityville, New York native Cut Monitor Milo ; and Busta Rhymes , who was originally from Brooklyn, New York but later moved to...
- "Classic Material (Remix)" - 1993: Diamond D ft. Lord FinesseLord FinesseLord Finesse is a Hip hop artist and producer, hailing from The Bronx, New York, best known as the leader of the D.I.T.C. rap crew.- Career :...
& Sadat XSadat XSadat X is an American rapper, most famed as a member of Alternative hip hop group Brand Nubian. Originally known as Derek X, Sadat takes his name from former Egyptian president Anwar Sadat....
- "You Can't Front" - 1993: Private Investigators - "Who Am I? (God) [Remix]"
- 1993: Ed O.G. & Da Bulldogs - Roxbury 02119 (LP):
"Streets of the Ghetto", "Busted", "Love Comes & Goes", "I Thought Ya Knew", "Dat Ain't Right" - 1994: Fu-SchnickensFu-SchnickensFu-Schnickens was an American hip-hop trio. Similar to Das EFX for their cartoonish lyrics and near-constant allusions to pop culture staples, they were the first Hip Hop artists to rap in backwards fashion. The Fu-Schnickens' popularity was brief but significant in hip hop history...
- ""Sneakin' Up On Ya", ""Aaahh Ooohhh!" from Nervous BreakdonNervous Breakdown (Fu-Schnickens album)Nervous Breakdown is the second album by Fu-Schnickens, an American hip hop trio from New York City. This album showcases their already prominent "cartoon" style of rapping. The album also shows some lyrical improvement, especially from group member Chip Fu... - 1994: A.D.O.R. - The Concrete (LP):
"Day 2 Day", "Heart & Soul", "Keep it Real", "The Kid is Crazy", "Day 2 Day (Mecca Mix)" - 1994: Shadz of Lingo - A View to a Kill (LP):
"Different Stylez", "Don't Test Da Skills", "Ill And Get Clowned", "Think I Give A Fuck" - 1994: Red Hot Lover Tone - "#1 Player" and "Bust The Manueva", from #1 Player
- 1994: Nefertiti - "Come Down Baby" and "Family Tree" from L.I.F.E.
- 1994: House of PainHouse of PainHouse of Pain is an American hip hop group who released three albums in the 1990s before lead rapper Everlast left to pursue his solo career again. The group's name is a reference to the H.G. Wells novel The Island of Dr...
"Word is Bond", "Word is Bond (Remix)" from Same As It Ever WasSame As It Ever WasSame as It Ever Was is the second album from House of Pain, released in 1994 .-Track listing:... - 1994: Justice System - "Dedication to Bambaata (Remix)"
- 1994: Dana BarrosDana BarrosDana Bruce Barros is a retired American professional basketball player from the NBA. Before the NBA he played at Boston College, finishing as one of the school's all-time leading scorers....
& Cedric CeballosCedric CeballosCedric Z. Ceballos is an American professional basketball player. As a small forward, he played most notably for the Los Angeles Lakers and the Phoenix Suns, later finishing his NBA career with the Dallas Mavericks, Detroit Pistons and Miami Heat.Ceballos attended college at Ventura College and...
, ft. A.G. & Brand NubianBrand NubianBrand Nubian is an American hip hop group from New Rochelle, New York, consisting of three MC's: Grand Puba , Sadat X and Lord Jamar , and two DJs: DJ Alamo and DJ Sincere...
- "Ya Don't Stop" - 1994: OutkastOutKastOutkast is an American hip hop duo based in East Point, Georgia, consisting of Atlanta native André "André 3000" Benjamin and Savannah, Georgia-born Antwan "Big Boi" Patton. They were originally known as Two Shades Deep but later changed the group's name to OutKast...
- "SouthernPlayalistiCadillacMuzik (Remix)" - 1994: Scientifik - "I Got Planz" and "Yeah Daddy", from Criminal
- 1994: The VeldtThe Veldt"The Veldt" is a short story written by Ray Bradbury that was published originally as "The World the Children Made" in the September 23, 1950 issue of The Saturday Evening Post, later republished in the anthology The Illustrated Man in 1951...
- "Soul in a Jar (Guitar Mix)" - 1994: JoiJoiJoi are British Bangladeshi alternative dub/dance music DJ team, originally composed of London brothers Farook and Haroon Shamsher. Haroon died at the turn of the century, and the remaining brother has continued Joi alone.-Background:...
ft. Shadz of Lingo - "Freedom" - 1994: Total Devastation - "Wonderful World of Skins (Remix)"
- 1994: Lucas - "Cityzen (Diamond D Remix)"
- 1995: The PharcydeThe PharcydeThe Pharcyde are an alternative hip hop group based in South Central Los Angeles. The original four members of the group are Imani , Slimkid3 , Bootie Brown and Fatlip . DJ Mark Luv was the group's first DJ, followed by producer J-Swift and then J Dilla...
"Groupie Therapy," from LabcabincaliforniaLabcabincaliforniaLabcabincalifornia is the second album by The Pharcyde, released in 1995, three years after their debut Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde. The album's production was handled by The Pharcyde themselves and Jay Dee, with additional help from Diamond D and M-Walk.The first single was "Drop"... - 1995: KRS-OneKRS-OneLawrence Krisna Parker , better known by his stage names KRS-One , and Teacha, is an American rapper...
- "Build Ya Skillz," "Squash All Beef," from KRS-OneKRS-One (album)KRS-One is the second album released by hip hop artist KRS-One under his own name. The album was originally meant to be titled Hip-Hop Vs. Rap, as can be seen in the early The Source's and Rap Pages reviews, which also reveals that a few tracks were scrapped at last minute in addition to the change... - 1995: KRS-OneKRS-OneLawrence Krisna Parker , better known by his stage names KRS-One , and Teacha, is an American rapper...
- "Ah Yeah (Diamond Flava)" and "Ah Yeah (Diamond Rhode Mix)", 12" Single - 1995: KRS-OneKRS-OneLawrence Krisna Parker , better known by his stage names KRS-One , and Teacha, is an American rapper...
- "What I Know", unreleased outtake from KRS-OneKRS-One (album)KRS-One is the second album released by hip hop artist KRS-One under his own name. The album was originally meant to be titled Hip-Hop Vs. Rap, as can be seen in the early The Source's and Rap Pages reviews, which also reveals that a few tracks were scrapped at last minute in addition to the change... - 1995: Big C - "Look Alive", from D&D Project
- 1995: Big Red - "Created A Monster" and "How They Want It", 12" Single
- 1995: Various Artists - "Freedom (Theme From Panther)"
- 1995: Tha AlkaholiksTha AlkaholiksTha Alkaholiks, also known as Tha Liks, was an American hip hop group from Los Angeles, California. Since the early 1990s they have produced funky, upbeat, hedonism-themed party music with a hardcore hip hop edge, powered by the beats of DJ and producer E-Swift and the lively, comedic rhymes of...
"Let it Out," "Next Level," from Coast II CoastCoast II CoastCoast II Coast is the second album of hip hop trio The Alkaholiks released in 1995. It features guest rapping from Xzibit, Diamond D, King Tee, Lootpack, Q-Tip, Declaime and The Baby Bubbas. It features production from Tha Alkoholiks themselves, E-Swift, Madlib and Diamond D.-Track listing:-Album... - 1995: Fat JoeFat JoeJoseph Antonio Cartagena , better known by his stage name Fat Joe, is an American rapper, CEO of Terror Squad Entertainment, and member of musical groups D.I.T.C. and Terror Squad....
- "Bronx Tales" and "Watch Out", from Jealous One's EnvyJealous One's EnvyJealous One's Envy is the second studio album by Fat Joe released in 1995. It fared well on the hip-hop charts.- Track listing :... - 1995: Urban Thermo Dynamics - "Manifest Destiny"
- 1996: FugeesThe FugeesFugees were a Haitian American hip hop group who rose to fame in the mid-1990s. Their repertoire included elements of Hip hop, soul and Caribbean music, particularly reggae. The members of the group were rapper/singer/producer Wyclef Jean, rapper/singer/producer Lauryn Hill, and rapper Pras Michel...
"The Score," from The ScoreThe Score (album)The Score is the second and final studio album by the hip hop trio Fugees, released worldwide February 13, 1996 on Columbia Records. The album features a wide range of samples and instrumentation, with many aspects of alternative hip hop that would come to dominate the hip hop music scene in the... - 1996: XzibitXzibitAlvin Nathaniel Joiner , better known by his stage name Xzibit , is an American rapper, actor, and television host. He is known as the host of the MTV show Pimp My Ride, which brought him mainstream success...
"Bird's Eye View," from At the Speed of LifeAt the Speed of LifeAt the Speed of Life is rapper Xzibit's debut album. The album peaked at number 74 on the Billboard 200 music chart. The single Paparazzi was featured on the Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 video game soundtrack... - 1996: Mondo Grosso - Do You See What I See (Remix)
- 1996: Ronnie FosterRonnie FosterRonnie Foster is an American funk and soul-jazz organist, and record producer. His albums recorded for Blue Note Records in the 1970s has obtained a cult following after the emergence of acid-jazz.-Biography:...
- "Summer Song (Diamond D Mix)" - 1996: Sadat XSadat XSadat X is an American rapper, most famed as a member of Alternative hip hop group Brand Nubian. Originally known as Derek X, Sadat takes his name from former Egyptian president Anwar Sadat....
ft. Fat JoeFat JoeJoseph Antonio Cartagena , better known by his stage name Fat Joe, is an American rapper, CEO of Terror Squad Entertainment, and member of musical groups D.I.T.C. and Terror Squad....
- "Nasty Hoes", from America is Dying SlowlyAmerica Is Dying SlowlyAmerica Is Dying Slowly is a compilation album, the eighth in the Red Hot AIDS Benefit Series of recorded by the Red Hot Organization... - 1996: RaekwonRaekwonCorey Woods , better known by the stage name Raekwon, is an American rapper and a member of the Wu-Tang Clan. He released his solo debut, Only Built 4 Cuban Linx... in 1995, and has since recorded four solo albums, as well as work with Wu-Tang and an extensive amount of guest contributions with...
ft. Ghostface KillahGhostface KillahDennis Coles , better known by his stage name Ghostface Killah, is an American rapper and prominent member of the Wu-Tang Clan. After the group achieved breakthrough success in the aftermath of Enter the Wu-Tang , the members went on to pursue solo careers to varying levels of success...
& JodeciJodeciJodeci is an American band, whose repertoire includes R&B, soul music, and new jack swing. The group consists of two pairs of brothers from Hampton, Virginia and Charlotte, North Carolina: Cedric & Joel Hailey and Donald & Dalvin DeGrate, all respectively known by their stage names: K-Ci & Jojo,...
- "Rainy Dayz (Mr. Dalvin Remix)"; co-production, programming & mixing - 1996: Ras KassRas KassJohn Austin IV, better known by his stage name Ras Kass, is an American rapper. He is also a part of hip hop supergroup The HRSMN along with Canibus, Killah Priest, and Kurupt...
"Soul on Ice (Remix)", from Soul on IceSoul on IceSoul On Ice is the critically acclaimed debut album by West Coast rapper Ras Kass. It was released on October 1, 1996, by Priority Records and was produced by Ras Kass, as well as DJ Battlecat, Vooodu, Bird, Michael Barber, Michael Schlesinger, and Reno Delajuan...
(12" single) - 1996: Broadway A.K.A. Party Arty - "Enjoy Yourself"
- 1996: Sadat XSadat XSadat X is an American rapper, most famed as a member of Alternative hip hop group Brand Nubian. Originally known as Derek X, Sadat takes his name from former Egyptian president Anwar Sadat....
- "Wild Cowboys", "Petty People" and "Move On" from Wild CowboysWild CowboysWild Cowboys is the solo debut by Brand Nubian member Sadat X, released in mid-1996 on Loud Records. Though the album did not receive much mainstream attention, it was a popular underground release, partly due to the album's guest producers, which included D.I.T.C. members Buckwild, Diamond D and... - 1997: Afro Jazz - "Paria v/s Estat"
- 1997: Organized KonfusionOrganized KonfusionOrganized Konfusion is an alternative hip hop duo from Queens, New York. Though not commercially popular, the duo was one of the most respected and acclaimed underground hip hop acts of the 1990s, largely due to the groundbreaking lyrics of Pharoahe Monch and Prince Poetry.-Recording career:Group...
"Questions," from The EquinoxThe Equinox (album)The Equinox is the third and final album by heralded Queens Hip Hop duo Organized Konfusion, released on September 16, 1997, on Priority Records. The group branched out to work with a number of outside producers, including Diamond D, Showbiz, Buckwild and Rockwilder. The effort is a concept album,... - 1997: Diamond D - Hatred, Passions and InfidelityHatred, Passions and InfidelityHatred, Passions and Infidelity is the second album from hip hop producer and emcee Diamond D, released five years after his acclaimed debut, Stunts, Blunts and Hip Hop...
(2xLP) - 1997: Diamond D - "Hiatus (Remix)", "MC2", from The Hiatus 12"
- 1997: D.I.T.C. - "Day One", 12" Single
- 1998: A.D.O.R.A.D.O.R.A.D.O.R., born Eddie Castellanos, is a U.S. hip hop artist whose work includes the Pete Rock-produced hit "Let It All Hang Out" , and "One for the Trouble" , produced by Marley Marl...
- "The Rush", from Shoq Frequency - 1998: Busta RhymesBusta RhymesTrevor Tahiem Smith, Jr., better known by his stage name Busta Rhymes ,Smith is an American rapper, producer and actor. Chuck D of Public Enemy gave him the alias Busta Rhymes after NFL wide receiver George "Buster" Rhymes...
"What the Fuck You Want!!" from Extinction Level Event (Final World Front)Extinction Level Event (Final World Front)E.L.E. : The Final World Front is the third studio album by American hip-hop artist Busta Rhymes, released on December 15, 1998 . It is the first album by Busta Rhymes to feature production by Swizz Beatz, as well as no contribution from longtime collaborator Jay Dee... - 1998: Brand NubianBrand NubianBrand Nubian is an American hip hop group from New Rochelle, New York, consisting of three MC's: Grand Puba , Sadat X and Lord Jamar , and two DJs: DJ Alamo and DJ Sincere...
- "Foundation", from Foundaction - 1998: D.I.T.C. ft. Brand NubianBrand NubianBrand Nubian is an American hip hop group from New Rochelle, New York, consisting of three MC's: Grand Puba , Sadat X and Lord Jamar , and two DJs: DJ Alamo and DJ Sincere...
- "I Flip Styles" - 1998: Queen LatifahQueen LatifahDana Elaine Owens , better known by her stage name Queen Latifah, is an American singer, rapper, and actress. Her work in music, film and television has earned her a Golden Globe award, two Screen Actors Guild Awards, two Image Awards, a Grammy Award, six additional Grammy nominations, an Emmy...
- "I Don't Know", from Order in the CourtOrder in the CourtOrder in the Court is the fourth studio album by American rapper Queen Latifah, released on June 16, 1998 in the United States on Motown Records. The album is in part dedicated to The Notorious B.I.G and Tupac Shakur... - 1999: A.G. - "Nowhere to Go", from The Dirty VersionThe Dirty VersionThe Dirty Version is the solo debut from D.I.T.C. rapper A.G. of the duo Showbiz and A.G. The two temporarily split after their 1998 release Full Scale to pursue solo careers. The album features production from former partner Showbiz, as well as DJ Premier and D.I.T.C. members Lord Finesse,...
- 1999: Busta RhymesBusta RhymesTrevor Tahiem Smith, Jr., better known by his stage name Busta Rhymes ,Smith is an American rapper, producer and actor. Chuck D of Public Enemy gave him the alias Busta Rhymes after NFL wide receiver George "Buster" Rhymes...
- "The Bus-a-Bus (Remix)" - 1999: Diamond D - "When it Pours it Rains", from Soundbombing 2Soundbombing 2Soundbombing II is the second installment in Rawkus Records Soundbombing series, and was possibly the most successful and acclaimed release out of all the Rawkus compilations. Soundbombing 2 fuses up-and-coming MC's with established rappers, and was able to deliver an underground Hip Hop sound to a...
- 1999: Diamond D & Sadat XSadat XSadat X is an American rapper, most famed as a member of Alternative hip hop group Brand Nubian. Originally known as Derek X, Sadat takes his name from former Egyptian president Anwar Sadat....
- "Feel It", 12" Single - 1999: Mos DefMos DefDante Terrell Smith is an American actor and Emcee known by the stage names Mos Def and Yasiin Bey. He started his hip hop career in a group called Urban Thermo Dynamics, after which he appeared on albums by Da Bush Babees and De La Soul. With Talib Kweli, he formed the duo Black Star, which...
"Hip-Hop," from Black on Both SidesBlack on Both SidesBlack on Both Sides is the debut solo album of American rapper Mos Def, released October 12, 1999 on Rawkus Records. Prior to the album's recording, Mos Def had collaborated with rapper Talib Kweli for the duo's studio album, Mos Def & Talib Kweli are Black Star , which raised high expectations for... - 1999: Pharoahe MonchPharoahe MonchPharoahe Monch is an American hip hop artist. He is known for his complex lyrics, complex delivery, and internal and multisyllabic rhyme schemes.-Biography:...
"The Light," "The Truth," "The Ass," from Internal AffairsInternal Affairs (album)Sample credits* "Intro" contains samples of "Blues and The Abstract Truth" by Oliver Nelson.* "Behind Closed Doors" contains samples of "Aftermath" by Quincy Jones.* "Queens" contains samples of "Til the Cops Come Knockin" by Maxwell.... - 1999: Scaramanga - "S.I.R.", from 7 Eyes, 7 Horns
- 1999: Too Short ft. Jay-ZJay-ZShawn Corey Carter , better known by his stage name Jay-Z, is an American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists and entrepreneurs in America, having a net worth of over $450 million as of 2010...
- "Here We Go", from Too Short (album) - 2000: A.D.O.R.A.D.O.R.A.D.O.R., born Eddie Castellanos, is a U.S. hip hop artist whose work includes the Pete Rock-produced hit "Let It All Hang Out" , and "One for the Trouble" , produced by Marley Marl...
- "Cock'd Back", from Animal 2000 - 2000: Freddie FoxxxFreddie FoxxxFreddie Foxxx, also known as Bumpy Knuckles, is an American rapper and music producer from Long Island, New York.- Biography :...
"Bumpy, Bring it Home," from Industry ShakedownIndustry ShakedownIndustry Shakedown is the second official album by rapper Freddie Foxxx . Released through Landspeed Records in 2000, the album became the best-selling independent release of that year. The album featured production by DJ Premier, Pete Rock, Diamond D, The Alchemist and Foxxx himself... - 2000: D.I.T.C. "Day One," "Foundation," from D.I.T.C.D.I.T.C. (album)D.I.T.C. is the debut from Hip Hop collective D.I.T.C., or Diggin' in the Crates Crew. The group consists of Lord Finesse, Show, A.G., Diamond D, Fat Joe, O.C., Buckwild and the late Big L. The album closer, "Tribute", is a tribute track to Big L, who was murdered on February 15, 1999...
- 2000: Sadat XSadat XSadat X is an American rapper, most famed as a member of Alternative hip hop group Brand Nubian. Originally known as Derek X, Sadat takes his name from former Egyptian president Anwar Sadat....
- "X-Man", "You Can't Deny" from State of NY vs. Derek Murphy EP - 2000: Unbound Allstars - "Mumia 911"
- 2001: Busta RhymesBusta RhymesTrevor Tahiem Smith, Jr., better known by his stage name Busta Rhymes ,Smith is an American rapper, producer and actor. Chuck D of Public Enemy gave him the alias Busta Rhymes after NFL wide receiver George "Buster" Rhymes...
- "Wife in Law" featuring Jaheim - 2001: MuroMuroMuro, a word meaning wall in Spanish, Portuguese Italian, Esperanto and Ido languages, may stand for:- Places :France* Muro, Haute-Corse, a commune in the département of Haute-Corse.Italy* Muro Leccese, a municipality of the Province of Lecce, Apulia...
ft. O.C.O.C. (rapper)Omar Credle , known by his stage name, O.C., is an American rapper who has been involved with several renowned underground hip-hop groups and also released many solo albums.-Recording career:...
- "Lyrical Tyrants (Diamond Mix)" - 2002: The 45 King - "Double Dare"
- 2003: AkrobatikAkrobatikAkrobatik is a rapper from the Dorchester neighborhood of Boston, Massachusetts. He has collaborated numerous times with many fellow Boston rappers , and recently formed a hip hop collective named The Perceptionists with Mr. Lif and DJ Fakts One....
- "Feedback," from Balance - 2003: ASD - "Sag Mir Wo Die Party Ist"
- 2003: Diamond D - Grown Man TalkGrown Man TalkGrown Man Talk is a 2003 album from Hip Hop artist Diamond D, released through Diamond's own Diamond Mine imprint. The album was not distributed nationwide, and only a limited number of copies were printed. Grown Man Talk featured production from Diamond and 88 Keys, as well as appearances from...
(CD) - 2004: Earatik StatikEaratik StatikEaratik Statik is a Chicago based underground Hip Hop group that has been around since 1999. The group consists of two MCs, Sef Rich and Carlos Polk.-Early years:...
ft. Pacewon - "People Like Us", from Feelin Earatik - 2004: Edo G featuring Pete RockPete RockPeter Phillips , better known by his stage name Pete Rock, is an American record producer, DJ and rapper. He rose to prominence in the early 1990s as one half of the critically acclaimed group Pete Rock & CL Smooth...
- "Streets is Callin", from My Own Worst Enemy - 2004: The Omen - "It's Our World", from DJ Rhetmatic Mixtape
- 2005: A.D.O.R.A.D.O.R.A.D.O.R., born Eddie Castellanos, is a U.S. hip hop artist whose work includes the Pete Rock-produced hit "Let It All Hang Out" , and "One for the Trouble" , produced by Marley Marl...
- "The Realness", from Signature of Ill - 2005: Sadat XSadat XSadat X is an American rapper, most famed as a member of Alternative hip hop group Brand Nubian. Originally known as Derek X, Sadat takes his name from former Egyptian president Anwar Sadat....
- "The Great Diamond D", from Experience & EducationExperience & EducationExperience & Education is the second full-length album by rapper Sadat X, of the group Brand Nubian. The album features production from Diamond D, DJ Spinna, Kleph Dollaz and Ge-ology, and guest appearances from Heltah Skeltah, Edo G, Agallah and the Money Boss Players. The album's lead single is... - 2005: Medina Green - "Green Boogie", from Mixtape
- 2006: Cannonball Adderley – "Bohemia in the Dark (Remix)"
- 2006: Sadat XSadat XSadat X is an American rapper, most famed as a member of Alternative hip hop group Brand Nubian. Originally known as Derek X, Sadat takes his name from former Egyptian president Anwar Sadat....
- "The Post", from Black October - 2007: Sean PriceSean PriceSean Price is an American rapper and member of the hip hop supergroups Boot Camp Clik and Random Axe. He came to fame as one-half of the duo Heltah Skeltah, performing under the name Ruckus, or in short Ruck, along with partner Rock. He also is featured in the video game NBA 2K11 as a playable...
- "Get it Together", from Master P - 2007: Natalie ColeNatalie ColeNatalie Maria Cole , is an American singer, songwriter and performer. The daughter of jazz legend Nat King Cole, Cole rode to musical success in the mid-1970s as an R&B artist with the hits "This Will Be ", "Inseparable" and "Our Love"...
- "Day Dreaming", from Leaving - 2008: Terror Tongue - "Lyrical Threat", from Unreleased Production 1994
- 2008: Diamond D - "Good Tyme", "When Ur Hot Ur Hot" and "I Wanna Leave", from The Huge Hefner ChroniclesThe Huge Hefner ChroniclesHuge Hefner Chronicles is the first studio album by Diamond D released through a label in over 10 years and is different from his previous works in the way that it features a wide range of different producers rather than Diamond crafting the beats himself like on previous releases...
- 2009: Collective Efforts - "I Get Down"
- 2009: Freestyle Professors - "Think About It", from Gryme Tyme
- 2011: Pharoahe MonchPharoahe MonchPharoahe Monch is an American hip hop artist. He is known for his complex lyrics, complex delivery, and internal and multisyllabic rhyme schemes.-Biography:...
- "Shine", from "W.A.R.(We Are Renegades)"