EPMD, short for “Erick and Parrish Making Dollars,” is a duo that helped shape the Golden Age of hip-hop. Formed in 1987, the group consists of Erick Sermon and Parrish Smith, two of the most influential figures in rap history. Their pioneering use of funky samples, smooth flow, and hard-hitting beats set them apart from their contemporaries and established them as one of the cornerstones of the East Coast rap scene. Known for their raw lyrical content, memorable hooks, and classic production, EPMD’s music still resonates today, influencing artists from various genres.
In this article, we will dive deep into the rap hits from EPMD that have defined their career. From their early groundbreaking work to their later releases, the duo has consistently delivered tracks that showcase their incredible chemistry and production mastery. Whether you’re an old-school hip-hop enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, these tracks serve as a perfect introduction to the legacy of EPMD.
EPMD’s 7 Legendary Rap Hits Recommended
1. “You Gots to Chill” (1988)
“You Gots to Chill” is one of EPMD’s biggest hits and a classic that defined their early sound. From the album Strictly Business, this track perfectly blends funk with hip-hop, using a smooth bassline and infectious beat. The lyrics showcase EPMD’s cool, confident persona, with Erick Sermon and Parrish Smith effortlessly trading verses. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the laid-back delivery of the song adds to its appeal. “You Gots to Chill” also introduced a broader audience to the duo’s trademark use of sampled funk and soul tracks, which became a signature element of their production style. The track remains a defining moment in hip-hop history.
2. “Gold Digger” (1989)
“Gold Digger” is another standout track from Unfinished Business, EPMD’s second album. With its catchy hook and bouncy beat, the song immediately draws listeners in. The lyrics take a humorous yet insightful look at the concept of “gold diggers”—individuals who seek financial gain through relationships. EPMD’s chemistry shines through, as the duo switches up their flows and emphasizes the playful nature of the track. The funky samples used in the production, paired with their confident delivery, solidified EPMD’s reputation for making music that was both entertaining and thought-provoking. “Gold Digger” is a perfect example of EPMD’s ability to turn a social commentary into a catchy and memorable rap hit.
3. “So What Cha Sayin’” (1990)
“So What Cha Sayin’” from Business As Usual is a smooth, laid-back track that showcases EPMD’s ability to blend mellow beats with sharp, confident lyricism. The track features a catchy hook and a production style that seamlessly blends jazz and funk elements with a heavy, boom-bap sound. Lyrically, the song sees Erick Sermon and Parrish Smith confronting their critics and establishing themselves as one of the top duos in the rap game. The track stands out for its smooth flow and its use of clever wordplay. “So What Cha Sayin’” remains a fan favorite for its infectious beat and sharp lyricism.
4. “Crossover” (1992)
“Crossover” is arguably one of EPMD’s most famous tracks and one that helped them reach mainstream success. The song from Business Never Personal deals with the crossover of hip-hop artists into mainstream popularity, something that EPMD themselves experienced. With a catchy, funky beat, the track has a powerful message about staying true to one’s roots despite the temptations of fame. The production is bold and dynamic, combining elements of jazz, funk, and hip-hop in a seamless blend. Lyrically, the song shows EPMD’s wit and insight, as they discuss the pitfalls of success while maintaining their authenticity. “Crossover” became a timeless anthem for hip-hop fans who appreciated both the music and the message.
5. “Rampage” (1992)
“Rampage,” featuring guest appearances by LL Cool J and other prominent rap figures, is another standout track from Business Never Personal. The song is a powerhouse collaboration that showcases the energy and creativity of the East Coast rap scene in the early ’90s. The beat is hard-hitting, with a driving rhythm that complements the aggressive and confident delivery of EPMD and their collaborators. The song’s lyrics address various topics, from the streets to the rap game, with each artist bringing their unique flair to the track. “Rampage” remains one of EPMD’s most energetic and exciting tracks, cementing their place in the rap game as both producers and lyricists.
6. “Headbanger” (1992)
“Headbanger” from Business Never Personal is a high-energy, in-your-face track that blends hard rock elements with hip-hop. The song features guest appearances by K-Solo and Redman, adding to the intensity and excitement of the track. The heavy, distorted guitars and booming drums set the tone for a headbanging experience, while EPMD’s sharp, fast-paced flow keeps the energy up. The track is a perfect example of how EPMD pushed boundaries in their production style, blending genres to create a sound that was unique for its time. “Headbanger” is one of the tracks that solidified EPMD’s reputation as innovators within hip-hop.
7. “Da Joint” (1997)
“Da Joint” from Out of Business is one of EPMD’s most iconic songs of the late ’90s. The track combines smooth beats with the duo’s sharp lyricism, creating a song that is both relaxing and energetic. The lyrics highlight EPMD’s journey through the rap industry, acknowledging their growth while staying true to their roots. The song has a laid-back vibe, with a catchy hook that draws listeners in. “Da Joint” proves that even in their later years, EPMD still had the ability to create timeless tracks that resonated with both old-school and newer fans alike. The production is slick, with a beat that perfectly complements the duo’s style.
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Conclusion
EPMD’s contributions to the hip-hop world are monumental. From their funky, sample-heavy beats to their smooth, confident flows, the duo has consistently delivered some of the most iconic tracks in rap history. Their ability to blend hard-hitting lyricism with catchy hooks and innovative production set them apart as true pioneers of the genre. Whether it’s their early tracks like “You Gots to Chill” and “Gold Digger,” or later hits such as “Da Joint” and “The Big Payback,” EPMD’s music has stood the test of time. Their influence can still be felt in today’s rap scene, as they helped shape the sound of East Coast hip-hop and introduced new approaches to production. For anyone looking to dive into the world of classic hip-hop, EPMD’s rap hits are a perfect starting point.
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