Nine Years Ago Today...

...these albums were released. Never forget.

Today In Hip-Hop: November 4th

On this day in 1944, Scherrie Payne, sister of the heavily-sampled Freda Payne, was born in Detroit, Michigan. She sang for The Glass House as well as for The Supremes.

On this day in 1966, Kool Rock-Ski (b. Damon Wimbley) of prominent Ol Skool Hip-Hop trio The Fat Boys was born in New York City.

On this day in 1969, Sean John Combs (a.k.a. Puff Daddy; a.k.a. Puffy; a.k.a. P. Diddy; a.k.a. Diddy ...) was born. Ironically, he was born exactly one month before the Shawn (close to Sean) Carter. Sean and Shawn "run New York."

On this day in 1972, 'I'll Be Around' by The Spinners spent it's second-to-last week on the R&B charts. The song was sampled by Rappin' 4-Tay and What Is This.

On this day in 1978, 'One Nation Under A Groove (Part 1)' by Funkadelic spent it's last week on the R&B charts. The song was heavily sampled by artists such as Above the Law, Digital Underground, EPMB, MC Hammer, Ice Cube, LL Cool J, Spice 1 & Steady B.

On this day in 1987, Ice-T released his debut album 'Rhyme Pays', a landmark record which sparked plenty of controversy regarding what many began calling 'gangsta rap'. 'Rhyme Pays' was the very first ever Hip-Hop record/album to carry the Parental Advisory warning label. G'lookin' out Tipper... SMH

On this day in 1995, Coolio's groundbreaking hit 'Gangsta's Paradise' shot to the top of the United World Chart, and retained it's #1 spot until mid-January of the next year.

On this day in 1997, Jay-Z dropped his sophomore album (and first Def Jam release) 'In My Lifetime, Vol. 1'. Released soon after the death of Brooklyn's king The Notorious B.I.G., Jay-Z's 'In My Lifetime' attempted to fill the void that was felt by the power vacuum created after Biggie's murder. Jigga staked the claim of being Brooklyn's new "focal point like Biggie in his prime" adding "the city is mine."

Also on this day in 1997, Rakim released his debut solo album, 'The 18th Letter'. It featured production by legends like DJ Premier, Pete Rock and Clark Kent, among others.

Also on this day in 1997, underrated emcee Mic Geronimo released his sophomore album, 'Vendetta'.

Also on this day in 1997, Three-6-Mafia released 'Chapter 2: World Domination', their third album and first to go gold.

On this day in 1998, the Hip-Hop film favorite 'Belly' was released in the U.S. The movie featured prominent Hip-Hip figures such as Nas, DMX, Method Man, AZ & T-Boz.

On this day in 2000, Ludacris released his major-label debut 'Back for the First Time'. Featuring some smash hits like 'What's Your Fantasy?', 'Ho' & 'Southern Hospitality', the album went 3x platinum.

On this day in 2003, Pete Rock released the double-disc compilation album 'Lost & Found: Hip Hop Underground Soul Classics'. 'Lost & Found' was the official release of two 1995 albums which were never officially released, both fully produced by Pete Rock. The two albums were INI's 'Center of Attention' and Deda's 'The Original Baby Pa'.

Also on this day in 2003, Ja Rule released his diss-heavy album 'Blood In My Eye', heavily directed towards 50 Cent, Eminem and the G-Unit/Shady/Aftermath camp. This album's cover is still one of my all-time favorites.
[Read on and find out what happened Today In Hip-Hop...]

Today In Hip-Hop: October 25th

^ Click to enlarge ^
On this day in 1957, Albert Anastasia (a.k.a. 'The Mad Hatter') was born in Calabria, Italy. Also known as "Lord High Executioner", Anastasia was a Mafia boss who, at one point, ran the criminal syndicate Murder, Inc. Irving Lorenzo and Jeffrey Atkins paid close attention.

On this day in 1968, Arrested Development's Speech (b. Todd Thomas) was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

On this day in 1974, Bob Marley & The Wailers released the reggae classic 'Natty Dread.' With great songs like 'Lively Up Yourself' and 'Rebel Music', 'Natty Dread' also featured 'No Woman, No Cry', which inspired the Fugees' cover from their 1996 album 'The Score.' 'Natty Dread' also offered samples to artists such as UGK & Poor Righteous Teachers.

On this day in 1985, Ciara Harris (known for her, ahem, 'Goodies') was born in Texas.

On this day in 1986, Troy Ryan (better known as Webstar) was born in New York City. His greatest achievement and/or contribution has been the unforgettable 'Chicken Noodle Soup.' SMH.

On this day in 1990, West Coast legend King Tee released 'Diss You', the second single from his highly regarded sophomore album 'At Your Own Risk.' Also on this day in 1990, underground legends Main Source released 'Looking at the Front Door', the first single from their 1991 classic 'Breaking Atoms.'

On this day in 1994, Common released the CLASSIC/OMG/AHHHH/YOUMUSTOWNTHISALBUM/1 album 'Resurrection.' Also on this day in 1994, seminal Afro-Centric emcees Fu-Schnickens released their second and last album, 'Nervous Breakdown.' Also on this day in 1994, Nas' 'One Love', a collection of kites to buddies in the pen., was released as a single from his epic debut album 'Illmatic.' It was a good day. © Cube.

On this day in 2005, Hip-Hop was dealt a heavy blow as the song 'Laffy Taffy' by D4L (a.k.a. Down for Life) was released. Hip-Hop Surgeon General's Warning: 'Laffy Taffy' Causes Brain Cancer, Heart Disease, Delirium, And May Complicate Pregancy. You've been warned.

Also on this day in 2005, Slum Village released their eponymous, Baatin-less album, and GZA & DJ Muggs dropped the critically-acclaimed chess-themed album 'Grandmasters.'

On this day in 2006, the debut album 'Goodies' by the previously-mentioned Ciara was certified 3x-platinum by the RIAA.
[Read on and find out what happened Today In Hip-Hop...]

Today in Hip-Hop: October 10th

Before we kick things off, head on over to The Rap Up to wish Rizoh a happy birthday!

(This blog wouldn't exist if it wasn't for Riz'...)
Have a great day homie!
Aight, let's start the show...

On this day in 1917, jazz-master Thelonious Monk (the smoothest mofo in history IMO) was born in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. A superstar in his own right, Monk worked with legends like Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins and several others. He's influenced Hip-Hop artists (Common's 'Thelonius' produced by J Dilla and featuring Slum Village is one example) and was even sampled. His work has been looped by producers like Premo (for GangStarr's classic 'Jazz Thing') as well as RZA (for the Wu-banger 'Shame on a N***a'). Rest In Peace. [Catch Monk in action here]

On this day in 1926, Chi-Town legend, jazz artist, poet and political activist Oscar Brown Jr. was born. Brown passed away on May 29th, 2005. Rest In Peace. [Watch one of his Def Poetry Jam peformances here] He also blessed the intro to Black Market Militia's debut album.

On this day in 1978, R&B songstress Mya was born. Two decades later, men across the planet rejoiced. [This one's a classic...Tarheel jerseys never looked so good ;-D]

On this day in 1985, the third episode of The Cosby Show's second season was aired on television. What's so special about that? The episode, titled 'Happy Anniversary', featured one of the warmest and equally hilarious moments in TV history. [Watch the classic scene here]

On this day in 1987, the classic/perfect/landmark/quintessential/epic (what more can I say?) album Paid In Full by Eric B. & Rakim was released. A defining masterpiece of Hip-Hop's Golden Era, 'Paid In Full' further led the emergence of Jazz-based Hip-Hop. Furthermore, Rakim's laid-back style coupled with his multi-syllabic rhyme schemes have been the foundation for many emcees since then. The album was not only a landmark release for the Hip-Hop scene, but music in general, earning a spot in Rolling Stone Magazine's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list. (Side note: In 2003, Eric B. filed a lawsuit against Island Def Jam claiming that, in fact, he had NOT been paid in full. The irony...) [Check out this breakdancing video featuring 'I Know You Got Soul', my favorite EB&R song, here]

Also on this day in 1987, Michael Jackson's hit song 'Bad' (you know, the one with all those zippers...lol) struck the #1 spot on the Number-One Hits World Chart. The song was sampled by the legendary Grandmaster Flash & the Furious Five on the track 'The Boy is Dope.

Also on this day in 1987, the Reverend Jesse Jackson launched his second campaign for the United States presidency.

On this day in 1990, Boogie Down Productions' album 'Edutainment' (we need more of that nowadays) was certified Gold by the RIAA, 3 months after it was releaed.

Also on this day in 1990, Lalah Hathaway released her third single, 'Baby Don't Cry.' Word to 'Pac! [Watch the music video here]

On this day in 1994, OutKast released 'Git Up, Git Out' (one of my favorite OK songs), their third single from their debut album 'Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik.' The track featured Mr. Green himself, Cee-Lo as well as Big Gipp. Interestingly enough, this was the first song to actually feature a Goodie Mob member on wax. Wow! [Watch the music video to 'Git Up, Git Out' here]

On this day in 1995, AZ dropped his classic debut 'Doe or Die.' The album features several prime, vintage-style cuts including personal favorites 'Rather Unique' and 'Sugar Hill.' [Peep the video to 'Sugar Hill' right here]

Also on this day in 1995, Blastmasta KRS-One from the mighty BDP released his eponymous sophomore album which featured the Premo-produced cuts 'Rappaz R. N. Dainja' and 'MC's Act Like They Don't Know', as well as a personal favorite of mine, 'Free Mumia.'

On this day in 1996, everyone's favorite Irish rap group, House of Pain, released their third and last album, Truth Crushed to Earth Shall Rise Again.

On this day in 2000, Ja Rule released Rule 3:36, his first album to go 3x platinum. [Remember this song?]

Also on this day in 2000, Afu-Ra released the underground classic debut album 'Body of the Life Force.' Features included GZA, Smif-N-Wessun, Masta Killa, Ky-Mani Marley & M.O.P. Producers included Muggs, Premo & Da Beatminerz. Can't f*ck wit' that! [Listen to the gritty 'Mortal Kombat' featuring Masta Killa here]

On this day in 2006, the Bryon Hurt-directed documentary 'Hip-Hop: Beyond Beats & Rhymes' was released. Among other great moments in the film, Chuck D stated: "BET is the cancer of black manhood in the world, because they have one-dimensionalized and commodified us into being a one-trick image." Fight the Power! [Watch a trailer to 'HH: BB&R' here]

On this day in 2007, Brit-band Radiohead makes history! [Site]

Also on this day in 2007, Chamillionaire releases 'Industry Groupie' as 'Ultimate Victory's second official single. [Listen to the song here]

And finally, on this day in 2007, we've got a snippet to DEAD PRESIDENTS III!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Enjoy:

Jay-Z - Dead Presidents III (Snippet)


^ Proof of G-d's existence ^

Lol

1

Today in Hip-Hop: September 9th

"I'm the cocky breed/ I'm dope like poppy seed/" - Jay-Z

On this day in 1941, soul legend Otis Redding was born in Georgia. His contributions to soul music are epic, but he also still retains a meaningful hip-hop presence. He's been sampled by and for artists such as (EDIT: How could I forget? Kanye also sampled Otis for his Late Registration track 'Gone' featuring Cam'ron...Thanks DJ Raida! A S&E post is in order...soon...) Nas ('Affirmative Action'), Ghostface ('Fish'), Originoo Gunn Clappaz ('Gunn Clapp'), Big Daddy Kane ('Nuff Respect'), De La Soul, Al Tariq, MC Shan (soon to be mentioned...), Public Enemy, Das EFX, Marley Marl, EPMD ('The Steve Martin'), Grand Puba, Geto Boys and many more... Redding and his band passed away in a '67 plane crash. He was only 26 years old. R.I.P.

On this day in 1965, Shawn Moltke was born. Scratching your head? That's MC Shan, Queens' representative voice (along with the Juice Crew) during the hip-hop Bridge Wars.

On this day in 1967, the James Brown song 'Cold Sweat' rose to the top of the R&B charts, maintaining its position for three weeks. The song was later sampled for some classic songs: 'Welcome to the Terrordome' & 'How to Kill a Radio Consultant' by Public Enemy, 'Jackin for Beats' by Ice Cube and 'What's the Word?' by Chubb Rock. Other artists to sample the song are DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince, UTFO, Terminator X, King T and several others. R.I.P. The Godfather of Soul.

On this day in 1972, 'Back Stabbers' by The O'Jays hit the top of the R&B charts. The track was later flipped on different songs by Grand Puba, Together Brothers, Detroit's Most Wanted and Junior MAFIA, all of whom retained the title of the original song, or at least a variant ('Back Stabbers', 'Backstabber', 'Back Stabber'...). The song was also sampled by WC & the Maad Circle, Babu and Angie Stone. R.I.P. William Powell and Eddie Lavert's son Gerald.

On this day in 1977, rapper Soulja Slim (b. James Tapp, Jr.) of No Limit fame was born in N'awlins, Louisiana. Slim was tragically gunned down in 2003 on his way to a concert. R.I.P.

On this day in 1985, Chicago rapper Young Berg a.k.a. Ice Berg was born. His album comes out next month.

On this day in 1995, the jaw-dropping hit 'Gangsta's Paradise' by Coolio (feat. L.V.) from the Dangerous Minds soundtrack hit the top of the Billboard charts. The song earned Coolio the Grammy for Best Rap Solo Performance.

On this day in 1996, President Bill Clinton presented Rosa Parks with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest honor given by the U.S. executive branch.

Also on this day in 1996, R&B group BLACKstreet released their second album, 'Another Level.' It featured the smash hit 'No Diggity' featuring the one and only Dr. Dre.

On this day in 1999, Aerosmith reunited with Run-D.M.C. to perform the classic rap/rock collaboration 'Walk This Way' at the MTV Video Music Awards. R.I.P. Jam Master Jay.

On this day in 2001, shamed (by dog owners at least) footballer Michael Vick made his NFL debut in San Francisco.

On this day in 2003, OutKast pals Andre 3000 and Big Boi divided and conquered the industry by simultaneously releasing their own individual singles: 'Hey Ya!' and 'The Way You Move.' The two singles carried the album (Speakerboxxx/The Love Below) to achieve diamond status, going 11 times platinum. The album won the Album of the Year award at the 2004 Grammys.

Also on this day in 2003, Beyonce released her single 'Baby Boy' featuring Sean Paul. The song soon hit the top of the R&B singles charts, staying up there for 5 straight weeks. Interestingly enough, the track usurped Pharrell and boyfriend Jay-Z's collab 'Frontin'. Even more interesting: the track on the charts before 'Frontin' was 'Crazy in Love' by Bey' and Jay. I guess it's safe to say that Jay-once owned the summer of '03.

On this day in 2005, U2 performed their epic 'One' with the R&B songstress Mary J. Blige at Shelter from the Storm: A Concert for the Gulf Coast. R.I.P. To those we lost...

On this day in 2007, YOU HAD A GREAT DAY!

1

Today in Hip-Hop: August 27th

It's been a long time... I shouldn't have left you... (click ^above pic^ to enlarge)

On this day in 1963, sociologist and civil rights activist W.E.B. Du Bois passed away at the age of ninety-five, one day before the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gave his 'I Have A Dream' speech. An inspiration to many, Talib Kweli mentioned Du Bois on the track 'Gun Music' from his album 'Quality': "Bringing the funk of dead bodies, go ahead bring in your boys/ You'll see the soul of black folk like W.E.B DuBois/"

On this day in 1968, Eric Correa a.k.a. 'Bobo' of Cypress Hill was born. Bobo is known as the group's percussionist, and is known to smoke a four foot long bong during live shows.

On this day in 1977, 'Float On' a single by Detroit vocal group The Floaters spent it's third of sixth week on the top of the Billboard R&B singles chart. The track would later be sampled for Craig Mack's 'Please Listen to my Demo', Big Daddy Kane's 'Flow On', Stetsasonic's 'Float On' and Lords of the Underground's 'Float On', to name a few.

On this day in 1978, pretty boy (no homo) rapper-turned-minister-turned-rapper again Mason Betha was born. Make up your friggin' mind mayne.

On this day in 1986, pretty boy (no Foley) R&B singer Mario Dewar Barrett was born. You can just call him Mario.

On this day in 1987, Scott Sterling a.k.a. DJ Scott La Rock of Boogie Down Productions fame was gunned down in the South Bronx. Rest in peace.

On this day in 1992, Redman released his very first single 'Blow Your Mind' from the fan-favorite album 'Whut? Thee Album.' Hot line: "I do the hustle like Russell, Rush the stage with Simmons/ Deadly venom, makes me Poison like Michael Bivins/"

On this day in 1996, 'Can't Knock the Hustle', Jay-Z's first song from his first album, was released as a single. Pebble-A-Fella would soon grow to become the monster we all know today. ;-D

Also on this day in 1996, OutKast released ATLiens, their second album. Aaliyah also released her album 'One in a Million' which featured hip-hoppers such as Treach and Slick Rick.

On this day in 2002, a sh*tload of hip-hop artists released albums. Eve came with 'Eve-Olution', 'The N.W.A. Legacy, Vol. 2' came out, KRS-One hit us with 'The Mix Tape' (featuring the infamous Nelly diss track), Soul Position introduced themselves to the world with the 'Unlimited EP', Lil' Flip proclaimed himself the urban, I mean, 'Undaground Legend' & Trina hit us with 'Diamond Princess' (featuring a young Ricky Rawls)...

On this day in 2007, YOU had a GREAT day....1

Today in Hip-Hop: August 1st

On this day in 1858, Austrian composer Hans Rott was born. So not only does he have my same birthday, he's also got my same last name. Now that's trippy...

On this day in 1920, Madison Square Garden was filled to hear the words of Black nationalist Marcus Garvey. Garvey has influenced various thinkers as well as such Afrocentric and/or conscious emcees as Nas, AZ, Lord Jamar, KRS-One, MC Zion and more.

On this day in 1942, acclaimed musician (and pothead) Jerry Garcia was born in Frisco, California. I'm certain that Proof has "found him" by now. Double R.I.P.

On this day in 1960, Public Enemy #1 Carlton Ridenhour a.k.a. Chuck D was born. By default, fellow PE member Professor Griff was born on this day as well.

On this day in 1963, West Coast emcee Coolio was born. The fantastic voyage begins.

On this day in 1970, Stevie Wonder's single "Signed, Sealed, Delivered I'm Yours" found it's way to the top of Billboard's R&B charts. It'd stay up there for the following five weeks.

On this day in 1971, The Concert For Bangladesh took place at Madison Square Garden from noon to 7:00 PM. Organized by The Beatles' George Harrison as well as Indian composing legend Ravi Shankar, the concert featured an all-star lineup including Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan, Billy Preston and more. Not much of a "hip-hop story/event", but a great and noteworthy one nonetheless.

Ironically on this day in 1978, Dhani Harrison, son of previously mentioned George Harrison, was born.

On this day in 1981, MTV was launched with it's aim of showing Music on TeleVision. Music on television? Ha! Look what it's become...

On this day in 1985, Michael Jackson spent some of his pocket change ($47 million) acquiring the publishing rights to most of The Beatles' music. So basically MJ can do whatever he wants to some ol' Beatles songs, but if DJ Danger Mouse tries it, the EMI Group gives him sh*t.

On this day in 1987, Hip-Hop Is Read blogger Ivan was born. ;-D

On this day in 1990, South Central/Bay Area rapper Too $hort released his 6th album Short Dog's In The House. It was his 2nd album to go platinum.

On this day in 1992, Sir Mix-a-Lot's infamous single "Baby Got Back" spent its last week on the top of the Billboard Hot 100 charts after staying up there for the previous 4 weeks.

On this day in 1995, Wu-Tang emcee Raekwon (the Chef) released the Rizoh-post-influencing classic Only Built 4 Cuban Linx..., often regarded as the greatest solo Clan album.

On this day in 2000, Big L's album The Big Picture was released a year and a half after the Harlem-bred emcee's untimely death. It featured some classic songs including a personal favorite of mine, 'Ebonics.'

Also on this day in 2000, The Godfather of Soul a.k.a. James Brown signed his will.

On this day in 2002, 50 Cent released one of his infamous early mixtapes No Mercy, No Fear which featured the breakout hit 'Wanksta.' "...you know who droppin' dimes..." SMH...LOL

Today in Hip-Hop: July 7th

On this day in 1977 (7/7/77), 7 Aurelius, the lesser known mastermind behind Murder Inc. Records, was born in Lexington, Kentucky.

On this day in 1979, Michael Jackson completed all studio work for his fifth solo album, “Off the Wall.” The top-selling R&B album of the year, “Off the Wall” produced hits such as “Rock With You” (sampled for Puff Daddy & Ma$e’s “Can’t Nobody Hold Me Down”, “I Can’t Help It” (sampled for De La Soul’s “Breakadawn”) and “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” (sampled for Ma$e’s “Cheat On You”).

On this day in 1982, Barry Adrian Reese was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The “I’m A Hustla” star is known by most people as fo’real-adelphia pistolvania’s own Cassidy. ;-D

On this day in 1984, Prince’s smash hit “When Doves Cry” from his album “Purple Rain” reached number one for the second consecutive week on Billboard’s R&B chart. While the album has generally been sampled heavily by hip-hop artists, the song “When Doves Cry” was utilized in “Return to Planet Rock” by Afrika Bambaataa & the Jungle Brothers.

On this day in 1987, Eric B. & Rakim released their classic debut album Paid in Full. Rolling Stone Magazine names it the 19th “Coolest Record” ever….that “Ain’t No Joke”!

On this day in 2006, Pink Floyd’s lead vocalist Syd Barrett passed away due to complications from diabetes. A rock legend, he and his band’s songs have been sampled by hip-hoppers ranging from 3rd Bass, The Beastie Boys, EPMD, Geto Boys & D12.

Also on this day in 2006, Suge Knight’s Death Row empire met a devastating blow as a federal judge ordered a bankruptcy trustee takeover of the company.

Also on this day in 2006, TV personality Big Tigger spent his last day co-hosting BET’s 106 & Park.

On this day in 2007, The Seventh Seal, Rakim’s latest album, is supposed to be out in stores. (Memo: new Rakim album is not out in stores...yet)

- Ivan

Today in Hip-Hop: July 1st

^ I'm gonna keep making these for each "Today in Hip-Hop" segment

On this day in 1936, R&B and blues musician Syl Johnson was born. His classic song “Different Strokes” has been sampled by a (very!) wide array of hip-hop artists ranging from: 2pac, Boogie Down Productions, Brand Nubian, De La Soul, D.O.C., EPMD, Ice Cube, Kool G Rap, Kwame, N.W.A., Public Enemy, Scarface, TLC, Whodini and the Wu-Tang Clan, among many, many others. Keep in mind, that’s just one song!

On this day in 1967, Aretha Franklin’s classic “Respect” spent its second-to-last week atop Billboard’s number-one R&B hits chart. The Real Roxanne’s song “Respect” (amongst several other hip-hop tracks) featured a sample from the Aretha Franklin original.

On this day in 1971, Melissa Arnette Elliott was born in Portsmouth, Virginia. “Who?” Happy birthday Missy Elliott!

On this day in 1973, the United States DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) was founded. How would emcees react? B-Real: “D.E.A. can't keep Greenthumb in check.” The Notorious B.I.G.: “B.I.G., P-O, P-P-A / No info, for the, D.E.A.” (Biter) Lil Kim: “B.I.G., M-O, M-M-A / No info, for the, D.E.A.” Jay-Z: “F.B.I., D.E.A., I did crime, got away.” B-Real (again): “Hear the call to the D.A., fucking D.E.A.” Boots Riley: “The D.E.A. is filthy, yell not guilty.” Hell Razah: “Them three little pigs again with D.E.A. badges.” Fabolous: “Narcs wanna see me and my team in a chair…D.E.A. been lookin' for proof since 9-3.” The list goes on…

On this day in 1976, upcoming Florida rapper Plies was born. His album “The Real Testament” is set to be released on August 7th, 2007.

On this day in 1981, ex-Roc-A-Fella/Def Jam and current Inc. Records’ R&B songstress Nicole Wray was born.

On this day in 1987, LL Cool J released his sophomore album “Bigger and Deffer.” Though not as critically acclaimed as his landmark debut “Radio”, “Bigger and Deffer” featured the hip-hop-player classic “I Need Love”.

On this day in 1991, “We Can’t Be Stopped”, the Geto Boys’ fourth album, was released, to much acclaim. Arguably their best album to date, “We Can’t Be Stopped” featured the Geto Boys’ sole #1 track “Mind Playing Tricks on Me”, which was also released as a single on this day in ‘91.

Also on this day in 1991, Prince Rakeem released his first official EP on Tommy Boy Records titled “Ooh I Love You Rakeem.” For those that don’t know, Prince Rakeem is an alternate moniker for none other than the Wu-Tang Clan’s own RZA.

Also on this day in 1991, Stetsasonic released their third and final album, “Blood, Sweat & No Tears” (also on Tommy Boy Records).

Also on this day in 1991, Poor Righteous Teachers released their sophomore album “Pure Poverty.” New-schoolers pay attention: July 1st, 1991 was a big day! LOL

On this day in 1992, the HBO series Def Comedy Jam made its critically acclaimed debut on television.

On this day in 1995, The Notorious B.I.G.’s hit single “One More Chance” maintained its spot on the Billboard R&B charts after premiering on June 24th. The song stayed at #1 for nine weeks straight.

On this day in 1997, Puff Daddy and the Bad Boy Family released “No Way Out.” The album won the 1998 Grammy Award for Best Rap Album.

On this day in 2005, R&B and soul legends Luther Vandross and The Four Tops’ Renaldo “Obie” Benson both passed away.

On this day in 2007, Brooklyn emcee Papoose begins his UK tour to promote his upcoming album “The Nacirema Dream. “

Also on this day in 2007, “Curtis”, 50 Cent’s latest album, was supposed to come out. Will it ever? On this day (today!) 50 Cent’s new single “Follow My Lead” will be released along with a music video.

- Ivan

Today in Hip-Hop: June 17th

- On this day in 1965, the Beatles began to record the track ‘Michelle’ for their album ‘Rubber Soul.’ The song was later sampled for Doug E. Fresh’s classic cut ‘The Show’ as well as for Wyclef Jean’s ‘Gone Till November’ featuring Canibus and R. Kelly.

- On this day in 1972, Bobby Womack’s single ‘Woman’s Gotta Have It’ shot to the top of Billboard’s R&B singles chart. The song would later be sampled for both 50 Cent (on the track ‘What If’) and fellow Unit member Lloyd Banks (on the track ‘Anotha Dolla’).

- On this day in 1973, Leathaface a.k.a. Silent Killer a.k.a. the Grandaddy of the Midwest a.k.a. Krayzie Bone was born. Happy birthday Thug!

- On this day in 1994, O.J. Simpson led a car chase in his white Ford Bronco. It would later be thoroughly mentioned by various emcees. PMD spit: “Set the pace like O.J. in the Bronco chase.” U-God: “The rap O.J., in the dusty Bronco/ Bang on my chest like the King of Kongo.” Cassidy: “Hop out the Bronco, I’ll O.J. ‘em when I see ‘em.” Pusha T of the Clipse: “In Virginia, we smirked at that Simpson trial/ Yeah, I guess the chase was wild.” One more (I don’t wanna take up too much space) by Rampage: “I’m in the Bronco with O.J.” Respect to anyone who can find more chase-specific O.J. mentions in a hip-hop song... ;-D

- On this day in 1997, Capone-N-Noreaga dropped the street classic ‘The War Report’ featuring production by board legends Marley Marl, DJ Clark Kent & Lord Finesse, among others. One of the albums highlights was the Mobb Deep-backed vehement cross-coast diss track titled “L.A. L.A.”

- On this day in 2003, Daniel Dumille, best known as MF DOOM, released ‘Take Me to Your Leader’, the first of his albums under the alias “King Geedorah.”

- On this day in 2004, the Wu-Tang Clan released ‘Disciples…Chapter 1’, a recording of their set at the Rock the Bells concert in 2004. The Clan will meet again to Rock the Bells once more this summer.

- On this day in 2006, Chamillionaire’s single ‘Ridin’’ dropped off from its number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 after staying up there for two weeks. The track featured Bone Thug’s own Krayzie Bone who, as stated above, celebrates his birthday on the same day.

Today in Hip-Hop: June 13th

This one's only for the heads. Enjoy the first installment:

- On this day in 1981, Rick James' smash hit 'Give it 2 Me Baby' topped Billboard's R&B Singles chart. It stayed up there for the following four weeks. It would later become a key sample for hip-hop tracks such as Jay-Z's 'I Just Wanna Love U', MC Hammer's 'Let's Get it Started' & DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince's 'All That'.

- On this day in 1988, hip-hop/r&b/soul group Guy released their eponymous debut record. The album featured the single Teddy's Jam which was later sampled by the Bomb Squad for Public Enemy's classic track 'Fight the Power'. The song 'Piece of My Love' was also chopped up for Cali's own Ice Cube on his track 'Turn Off the Radio'.

- On this day in 1992, R. Kelly's single 'Honey Love' reached #1 on Billboard's Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs list. The track was also featured on the hood-flick-classic Menace II Society.

- On this day in 1995, the track 'So Many Tears' from 2pac's classic album Me Against the World was released. 'Hard to Imagine' and 'If I Die 2nite' were the single's B-sides.

- On this day in 1999, the realms of hip-hop and wrestling collided: Master P took it to the ring and made his wrestling debut.

- On this day in 2000, Slum Village released their second album Fantastic, Vol. II. Rest in peace Dilla! By mere coincidence, future collaborator Madlib released his alter ego Quasimoto's debut album The Unseen on the very same day.

- Also on this day in 2000, Memphis, Tennessee's own Three 6 Mafia released their fourth album When the Smoke Clears: Sixty 6, Sixty 1. A triumph for southern hip-hop, it not only earned Three 6 Mafia their first platinum plaque, it became the first platinum hip-hop album out of Memphis.

- On this day in 2006, Aftermath Entertainment released Busta Rhymes' The Big Bang. Meaning what? Aftermath hasn't dropped anything over the course of the past year...as of yet at least...