Crooked Lettaz

Crooked Lettaz was a hip-hop duo consisting of Mississippi-based rappers David Banner and Kamikaze. Active in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Crooked Lettaz gained recognition for their unique blend of Southern rap with socially conscious lyrics. Here are some facts about Crooked Lettaz:

1. Formation and Background: Crooked Lettaz was formed in the late 1990s when David Banner, then known as Lavell Crump, and Kamikaze, also known as Marcus Boyd, joined forces to create music that reflected their experiences growing up in Mississippi. Both artists were part of the emerging Southern rap scene, which was gaining attention for its distinct sound and lyrical content.

2. Debut Album "Grey Skies": In 1999, Crooked Lettaz released their debut album, "Grey Skies", on Penalty Recordings. The album received critical acclaim for its raw lyricism, Southern-influenced production, and socially conscious themes. Tracks like "Get Crunk", "Firewater", and "Blood, Sweat, and Years" showcased Crooked Lettaz's unique blend of gritty street narratives and insightful commentary on issues such as racism, poverty, and social inequality.

3. Impact and Influence: Crooked Lettaz made a significant impact on the hip-hop scene with their debut album, "Grey Skies". Their music resonated with fans of Southern rap and conscious hip-hop alike, earning them praise for their authenticity and lyrical depth. Crooked Lettaz's socially conscious lyrics addressed important issues facing African-American communities in the South, shedding light on topics that were often overlooked in mainstream rap music at the time.

4. Collaborations and Solo Careers: Following the release of "Grey Skies", David Banner and Kamikaze pursued solo careers while remaining active collaborators. David Banner went on to achieve solo success with albums like "Mississippi: The Album" (2003) and "Certified" (2005), earning critical acclaim and commercial success for his innovative production and thought-provoking lyrics. Kamikaze also continued to release music as a solo artist, although with less commercial success than Banner.

5. Legacy and Recognition: Despite releasing only one album as Crooked Lettaz, the duo's impact on Southern hip-hop and conscious rap continues to be recognized. Their music laid the groundwork for later artists who sought to blend social commentary with street credibility, influencing the rise of socially conscious Southern rap acts in the 2000s and beyond. Crooked Lettaz's legacy as pioneers of Southern rap and advocates for social change remains intact, cementing their status as important figures in hip-hop history.