Company Flow

Company Flow was an American hip-hop group formed in 1992, known for their innovative approach to production and lyricism. Here are five facts about this influential group:

1. Formation and Members: Company Flow was formed in 1992 in Brooklyn, New York, by rapper and producer El-P (Jaime Meline), rapper Bigg Jus (Justin Ingleton), and DJ Mr. Len (Leonard Smythe). The group emerged during the golden age of hip-hop, a time when East Coast rap was undergoing a period of experimentation and innovation.

2. Rawkus Records and "Funcrusher Plus": Company Flow gained attention with their debut album, "Funcrusher Plus", released in 1997 on the independent label Rawkus Records. The album showcased the group's unique sound, characterized by El-P's gritty production style and dense, abstract lyricism. "Funcrusher Plus" received widespread critical acclaim for its groundbreaking approach to hip-hop, earning praise for its innovative production techniques and socially conscious themes.

3. Innovative Production and DIY Ethos: One of Company Flow's defining features was their innovative approach to production, which incorporated elements of underground hip-hop, experimental music, and industrial soundscapes. El-P's production style was characterized by its raw, lo-fi aesthetic, heavy use of sampling, and unconventional arrangements. The group's DIY ethos and rejection of mainstream conventions helped to establish them as pioneers of independent hip-hop in the late 1990s.

4. Impact and Influence: Company Flow's impact on underground hip-hop cannot be overstated. "Funcrusher Plus" is regarded as a classic of the genre, influencing a generation of underground rappers and producers with its boundary-pushing sound and uncompromising approach to artistry. The group's DIY ethos and independent spirit paved the way for the rise of the indie hip-hop movement, inspiring countless artists to pursue creative freedom and authenticity in their music.

5. Legacy and Disbandment: Despite their critical acclaim and influence, Company Flow disbanded in 2001, shortly after the release of their second album, "Little Johnny From the Hospitul: Breaks & Instrumentals Vol. 1". Following the breakup, El-P went on to pursue a successful solo career as a rapper, producer, and label owner, while Bigg Jus and Mr. Len pursued their own musical endeavors. However, Company Flow's legacy as pioneers of independent hip-hop continues to be celebrated by fans and critics alike, ensuring their lasting impact on the genre.

In summary, Company Flow was a groundbreaking hip-hop group known for their innovative production, dense lyricism, and uncompromising approach to artistry. With their seminal album "Funcrusher Plus", the group helped to redefine the boundaries of underground hip-hop, inspiring a generation of artists with their DIY ethos and raw, experimental sound. Despite their relatively short-lived career, Company Flow's influence on the hip-hop landscape remains profound, solidifying their status as legends of the genre.