EPMD Vinyl Records Lps For Sale
Check out these new and used EPMD vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your EPMD vinyl collection with the essential albums Unfinished Business, Strictly Business and Business As Usual. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from hip-hop and rap musicians.
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EPMD: Masters of Hip-Hop Evolution
EPMD Vinyl, a legendary hip-hop duo, has left an indelible mark on the genre, pioneering the East Coast rap scene during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Comprising Erick Sermon and Parrish Smith, EPMD Vinyl’s discography is a testament to their influence and innovation in the hip-hop world.
Formation and Early Years
Erick Sermon and Parrish Smith, hailing from Brentwood, New York, formed EPMD Vinyl in 1987. The acronym “EPMD” stands for “Erick and Parrish Making Dollars,” reflecting the duo’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to success. Their debut album, “Strictly Business” (1988), introduced the world to EPMD’s unique blend of funky beats, clever lyricism, and a laid-back, confident delivery.
“Strictly Business” (1988)
“Strictly Business” marked a significant milestone in the evolution of hip-hop. The album’s title track, featuring a sample from Eric Clapton’s “I Shot the Sheriff,” became an anthem for the genre. EPMD Vinyl’s seamless collaboration showcased their chemistry, and the album’s success laid the foundation for their subsequent releases.
Discography Overview
EPMD Vinyl’s discography is a rich tapestry of innovative beats, skillful rhymes, and a commitment to staying true to their roots. Let’s delve into some of their notable albums.
“Unfinished Business” (1989)
Following the success of “Strictly Business,” EPMD Vinyl released “Unfinished Business” in 1989. The album continued their winning streak, featuring tracks like “So Wat Cha Sayin'” and “You Gots to Chill.” The latter’s distinctive use of a Zapp & Roger sample solidified EPMD’s reputation for creating timeless hip-hop classics.
“Business as Usual” (1990)
In 1990, EPMD Vinyl dropped “Business as Usual,” an album that further established their dominance in the hip-hop scene. The standout track, “Gold Digger,” addressed the pitfalls of fame and fortune. The album’s overall success solidified EPMD Vinyl as a force to be reckoned with in the industry.
“Crossover” (1992)
As the hip-hop landscape evolved, EPMD Vinyl adapted their sound while staying true to their roots. “Crossover,” released in 1992, showcased their versatility. The title track explored the challenges of balancing artistic integrity with commercial success. EPMD Vinyl’s ability to address relevant issues through their music contributed to the album’s critical acclaim.
“Back in Business” (1997)
After a brief hiatus, EPMD Vinyl made a triumphant return with “Back in Business” in 1997. The album featured collaborations with fellow hip-hop heavyweights, including Redman and Keith Murray. Tracks like “Da Joint” demonstrated that EPMD Vinyl hadn’t lost their touch, blending their signature style with a contemporary edge.
“We Mean Business” (2008)
In 2008, EPMD Vinyl released “We Mean Business,” marking their latest studio album to date. The project showcased their enduring relevance in the hip-hop landscape, with tracks like “Roc-Da-Spot” demonstrating that the duo could still captivate audiences with their distinctive sound.
Influence and Legacy
EPMD Vinyl’s impact on hip-hop extends beyond their chart-topping hits. Their entrepreneurial mindset, coupled with a commitment to authenticity, paved the way for future generations of artists. Several contemporary acts draw inspiration from EPMD Vinyl’s groundbreaking approach to hip-hop.
Similar Bands
- Das EFX: Known for their rapid-fire delivery and intricate wordplay, Das EFX shares similarities with EPMD Vinyl in terms of their innovative approach to rhyming. The duo’s debut album, “Dead Serious” (1992), echoed EPMD’s influence.
- Redman: A frequent collaborator with EPMD Vinyl, Redman’s gritty lyricism and energetic delivery align with the duo’s style. Tracks like “Da Goodness” (1998) exemplify the shared aesthetic between Redman and EPMD Vinyl.
- Black Moon: Emerging from the Boot Camp Clik collective, Black Moon’s debut album, “Enta da Stage” (1993), showcased a raw, unfiltered sound reminiscent of EPMD Vinyl’s early work.
Bands Influenced by EPMD Vinyl
- OutKast: The Southern hip-hop duo OutKast, consisting of André 3000 and Big Boi, drew inspiration from EPMD Vinyl’s genre-blending approach. OutKast’s eclectic style and innovative production mirror EPMD Vinyl’s commitment to pushing boundaries.
- Mobb Deep: Hailing from Queens, Mobb Deep, comprised of Prodigy and Havoc, embraced the gritty realism present in EPMD Vinyl’s music. Their seminal album “The Infamous” (1995) reflects a similar dedication to street narratives.
- Wu-Tang Clan: The influential Wu-Tang Clan, with its array of talented members, found common ground with EPMD Vinyl in their ability to seamlessly blend diverse styles. Both groups contributed significantly to the East Coast hip-hop renaissance.
The Business of EPMD Vinyl
Beyond their artistic contributions, EPMD Vinyl’s impact on the business side of hip-hop cannot be understated. The duo’s emphasis on independence and entrepreneurship set a precedent for artists seeking creative control and financial autonomy.
Def Jam and Beyond
EPMD Vinyl’s early association with Def Jam Recordings played a crucial role in their rise to prominence. However, the duo’s decision to establish their own label, Def Squad, showcased their determination to control their artistic destiny. This move influenced subsequent artists seeking to break free from traditional industry constraints.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
Erick Sermon and Parrish Smith’s ventures extended beyond the recording studio. Erick Sermon, in particular, became known for his production work and collaborations with other artists. Meanwhile, Parrish Smith explored entrepreneurial endeavors, contributing to the duo’s reputation as not just artists but also industry innovators.
Conclusion
EPMD Vinyl’s journey through the hip-hop landscape is one of resilience, innovation, and a commitment to authenticity. From their debut album “Strictly Business” to the more recent “We Mean Business,” the duo has consistently delivered music that transcends temporal boundaries. Their influence on both the sound and business of hip-hop has left an enduring legacy, inspiring subsequent generations of artists to pursue their creative visions and control their destinies. As we continue to navigate the ever-evolving world of hip-hop, EPMD Vinyl stands as a testament to the enduring power of true pioneers in the genre.
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